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Massachusetts Hunting License (2026)

Restricted: Massachusetts requires a hunting license, and Basic Hunter Education is required to buy a first-ever license (no birthdate cutoff).

RestrictedVerified Jun 18, 2026

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Massachusetts requires a hunting license, and Basic Hunter Education is required to buy a first-ever license (no birthdate cutoff). Resident and nonresident licenses are available through MassWildlife.

Official source: mass.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Hunting License in states bordering Massachusetts

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

ConnecticutRestricted
Connecticut requires a hunting license, and you must complete a Conservation Education/Firearms Safety course to be issued a first license. Resident and nonresident licenses are available through CT DEEP.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: portal.ct.gov · Full Connecticut rule →
New HampshireRestricted
New Hampshire requires a hunting license, and Hunter Education certification is required to buy a first hunting license (no birthdate cutoff). Licenses are available through NH Fish and Game.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: wildlife.nh.gov · Full New Hampshire rule →
New YorkRestricted
New York requires a hunting license, and first-time hunters age 12 and older must complete a hunter-education course. Resident and nonresident licenses are available through NYSDEC.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dec.ny.gov · Full New York rule →
Rhode IslandRestricted
Rhode Island requires a hunting license, and hunter-education (or bowhunter-education) certification is mandatory for first-time/beginning hunters. Licenses are available through the RI DEM Div. of Fish & Wildlife.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dem.ri.gov · Full Rhode Island rule →
VermontRestricted
Vermont requires a hunting license, and all first-time hunters must present a prior hunting license or certified hunter-safety card from any state/province (no birthdate cutoff).
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: vtfishandwildlife.com · Full Vermont rule →

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