Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Colorado Hunting Licenses

Most of Colorado's hunting opportunities are administered through a license draw system that helps regulate and manage big game wildlife populations. The intent is also to balance the access to hunting opportunities with quality hunting experiences. Navigating this system can be daunting, especially for first-time or newer applicants. This guide breaks down the process into manageable steps to help you successfully apply for a deer, elk or other hunting license in the annual Colorado hunting draw system.

Understanding the Colorado Draw System

Before diving into the application process, here are a few terms that you'll want to understand:

  • Primary Draw: The main application period that typically runs from March 1 to early April each year.
  • Secondary Draw: Held in June for leftover licenses from the primary draw. More preference is given to youth applicants.
  • Leftover Day: Released in August, this is a list of remaining licenses that become available first-come, first-served.
  • Preference Points: A ranking system that gives unsuccessful applicants an advantage in future draws.
  • Over-the-counter: Method of obtaining a big game license that does not require a person to apply in the draw system.

Step 1: Create a Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Account

Tip: Keeping your information up to date is the best way to to be notified of updates and information about your hunting applications and to prevent mistakes in mailing address.

Step 2: Research Available Hunts and Regulations

Thorough research is crucial for successful applications:

Step 3: Preference Points Education

Colorado uses a preference point system to increase your chances of drawing high-demand licenses. There are several ways you might get a preference point. One scenario is you earn one preference point if you apply but don't draw your first-choice hunt. Another is to choose a point as a first option if you decide you don't want to or can't hunt that year.

Some hunts require multiple points to have a realistic chance of drawing. Preference points are species-specific (elk points can't be used for deer draws). Preference points are used once you draw a first choice hunt and setting your level back to zero for the following year if you use the tag.

Tip: Build a plan for what you want to do in the next five years. Adjust your application to meet your goals and don't waste time! Point creep is real and 'hunting now' can likely be a good option.

Step 4: Purchase Qualifying Licenses

Before applying for big game draws, you must purchase a qualifying license. In Colorado this means you must buy a:

  • Spring turkey license, or
  • Annual small game license, or
  • Annual combination fishing/small game license

This requirement applies to all hunters, regardless of whether they plan to use these licenses.

Step 5: Complete Your Application

Once you've done your research and purchased qualifying licenses, you're ready to apply. Log in to your CPW account during the application period (typically March 1 to early April). Select 'Buy Small Game and Combo Licenses' from the 'Go Hunting & Fishing' menu. Add a qualifying license to your cart. Then select 'Buy Big Game Licenses'.

Choose the species you want to apply for and enter up to three hunt code choices, ranked by preference. Indicate whether you want to receive a preference point if you don't draw and answer any other prompts. Once your applications are in your cart, enter payment information and pay for the application fee & license.

Tip: Submit your application at least a few days before the deadline to avoid technical issues. There are no re-do's if you miss this date!

Step 6: Wait for Draw Results

After the application deadline passes, CPW processes all applications and ultimately the decisions are made. Results are typically announced sometime around early June. You'll receive an email notification when results are available. Then, you can log in to your account to view your results.

Tip: Set a calendar reminder for the draw results announcement date so you don't miss it.

Step 7: If Successful, Complete Your License Purchase

If you draw a license: Log in to your CPW account Pay the remaining license fee Print your license or have it mailed to you If you don't draw your first choice but have selected the 'point guard' option, you'll automatically receive a preference point for next year's draw.

Step 8: Explore Alternative Hunting Options

If you don't draw your desired license you can still have a hunting opportunity in Colorado. Hunters can choose to apply for the Secondary Draw, check for leftover licenses (available in August) or consider over-the-counter licenses for some elk and deer hunts

Important Dates to Remember

  • March 1: Primary Draw application period typically opens
  • Early April: Application deadline (April 1st for 2025)
  • Early June: Draw results announced
  • Late June: Secondary Draw application period
  • Early August: Leftover licenses become available

Tips for Success

  • Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues
  • Be flexible with your hunt choices to increase your chances
  • Research draw odds and other information through the CPW statistics on Huntcodez
  • Build or use preference points strategically for your highly desired hunts
  • Set calendar reminders for all important dates
  • Consider hiring a consultant if applying for high-demand hunts
  • Understand public and private access points for the unit you want to hunt

Wrapping It Up

Successfully navigating Colorado's hunting draw system requires preparation, research, and patience. By following this guide and planning ahead, you can maximize your chances of drawing your desired licenses and enjoying Colorado's world-class hunting opportunities. Remember that regulations and dates can change, so always check the most current information on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website and brochure year to year. Good luck with your application!