What the Resident Combination License Covers

Utah's Resident Combination Hunting and Fishing License is a single permit that lets you hunt and fish throughout the state during the same calendar year. It combines what would otherwise be two separate licenses into one document, saving you money and paperwork if you plan to do both activities.

The license covers freshwater fishing in Utah's rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, plus hunting seasons for most game species — deer, elk, upland birds, waterfowl, and small game depending on the season. You still need separate tags or permits for specific hunts (like a deer or elk tag), but the base license itself covers your right to pursue both activities under one purchase.

This is different from buying a hunting license and fishing license separately. The combination option exists specifically for residents who want both, and it costs less than purchasing each one individually.

Key Takeaways

  • The Resident Combination License covers both hunting and fishing for the calendar year (January through December) and costs less than buying the licenses separately.
  • You must be a Utah resident — typically meaning you have lived in the state for at least six months and hold a Utah driver's license or ID card.
  • The license does not include tags for specific hunts like deer or elk; you purchase those separately through Utah's drawing system.
  • You can purchase the license online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website, by phone, or at any license agent location across the state.
  • The license is valid for the full calendar year, so buying it in November gives you only two months of use before it expires on December 31.

Residency Requirements and Who Can Buy

To purchase a Resident Combination License, you must be a Utah resident. The state defines residency as having lived in Utah for at least six consecutive months immediately before you buy the license, and you must hold a current Utah driver's license or state ID card. If you recently moved to Utah, you may not yet meet the residency window.

Non-residents can purchase a Non-Resident Combination License instead, which covers the same activities but costs significantly more. Military personnel stationed in Utah may have different residency rules — contact the Division of Wildlife Resources directly if you are active duty.

Cost and Where to Buy

The price of a Resident Combination License varies slightly depending on where you purchase it. Buying online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website typically costs less than buying in person, because retail license agents charge a small transaction fee on top of the base price. You can also purchase by phone through the Division's licensing office.

License agents are located throughout Utah — sporting goods stores, hardware stores, and some grocery stores sell them. A complete list of agents and their hours is available on the Division of Wildlife Resources website. If you buy in person, bring your Utah driver's license or ID card.

The license is valid for the calendar year only, so if you purchase it in December, it expires on December 31 of that same year. There is no prorated pricing for partial-year purchases.

What You Still Need to Hunt Specific Game

The Resident Combination License gives you permission to hunt, but it does not include tags for specific animals. If you want to hunt deer or elk, you must draw a tag through Utah's drawing system, which happens at different times of year depending on the species. Waterfowl hunters need a separate federal duck stamp. Upland bird and small game hunting are covered under the base license without additional tags.

Tags are purchased separately after you draw them or during over-the-counter sales periods. The Division of Wildlife Resources website lists all drawing dates, species available, and how to enter. Having your Resident Combination License in hand before the drawing period opens is necessary, because you cannot draw a tag without proof of a valid hunting license.

Fishing Regulations and Seasons

Your Resident Combination License covers freshwater fishing statewide, but fishing seasons, daily catch limits, and size restrictions vary by water body and species. Some waters are open year-round; others have specific seasons. Some have special regulations — catch-and-release only, single hook requirements, or slot limits on certain fish sizes.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources publishes a detailed fishing guidebook each year that lists every major water body, the species present, current regulations, and access information. You can download it free from their website or pick up a printed copy at any license agent. Checking the guidebook before you fish is essential, because regulations change annually and vary widely even within the same county.

How to Purchase and Activate Your License

Online purchase through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website is the fastest route. You will need your Utah driver's license or ID number, and the license is usually available to print or display on your phone immediately after purchase. Some people print it; others take a screenshot. Both are legal proof of licensure.

By phone, call the Division's licensing office during business hours. They will verify your residency and process the purchase over the phone, then mail the physical license to your address or provide a temporary license number you can use while waiting for the card to arrive.

In person at a license agent, bring your Utah driver's license or ID card and cash or card payment. The agent prints your license on the spot. This is the slowest method if you need the license immediately, because some agents have lines, but it works if you prefer to handle it face-to-face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a Resident Combination License if I just moved to Utah?

No, not until you have lived in Utah for at least six consecutive months. If you are close to that date, you can purchase a Non-Resident Combination License in the meantime. Once you hit the six-month mark and have a Utah driver's license or ID, you can switch to the resident license.

What happens if my license expires mid-season?

The Resident Combination License is valid only for the calendar year it covers. If it expires on December 31 and you want to fish or hunt on January 1, you must purchase a new license for the new year. There is no grace period or renewal option — you buy a fresh license each year.

Do I need the physical card, or can I just show my phone?

Either works. A screenshot or digital copy on your phone is legal proof of licensure in Utah. Many people carry only the digital version. If you prefer the physical card, it arrives by mail within a few days of purchase, or you can pick one up in person at a license agent.

Can I fish in other states with my Utah license?

No. Your Utah license is valid only in Utah waters. If you plan to fish in another state, you must purchase that state's fishing license. Each state manages its own waters and licensing independently.

What if I lose my license before the year ends?

Contact the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to request a replacement. They can issue a duplicate license or a temporary license number while a new card is printed. There is typically a small replacement fee.