Utah – Draw and Application Info

Application information reviewed September 28, 2026.

Planning a Utah big game hunt starts with three decisions: which species to pursue, which permit you need, and whether you want to hunt this year or build points. Use this guide to organize your application, then confirm the hunt code and requirements in the current Utah DWR guidebook.

Utah big game application dates

The 2026 main big game application window ran from March 19 at 8 a.m. to April 23 at 11 p.m. Mountain time. That window is closed. Results were scheduled by May 31. These are 2026 dates; check DWR’s announcement for the next application cycle. Other drawings and remaining-permit sales have separate schedules. DWR’s 2026 big game application announcement.

How to apply

1. Choose your hunt. Check species, unit, weapon, season and residency requirements in the current DWR guidebooks.
2. Confirm eligibility and your license. A valid hunting or combination license is required when applying for big game permits or points. Check age, hunter education and any waiting-period requirements before paying.
3. Review your budget. Application and license costs are separate from the permit fee. Use DWR’s current fee table for your residency and permit type.
4. Submit and keep your confirmation. Apply through Utah’s official drawing system. Check your choices and payment details before submitting; keep the confirmation for your records.

Successful applicants are charged for the permit. Keep your payment card current and allow enough credit for the hunts you apply for. See DWR’s explanation of hunting permit drawings for payment and application help.

Utah bonus points vs. preference points

Bonus points apply to limited-entry and once-in-a-lifetime hunts. An unsuccessful application earns a point for that species; eligible applicants can also apply for a point only. Bonus points are species-specific, with separate pools for desert and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.

Preference points apply to general-season buck deer and certain antlerless permits. An unsuccessful application or a points-only application can build points. Do not treat a general-season deer point as an elk bonus point: they belong to different systems.

You cannot apply for both a permit and a point-only option for the same species in the same drawing. Drawing a permit can use your accumulated points, and group applications have their own point calculation. Read DWR’s full bonus and preference point explanation before choosing your strategy.

Choose a unit before you commit your points

A familiar unit name is only the start. Compare the specific season and weapon, legal access, terrain, travel time and a realistic pack-out plan. A hunt that fits your time and experience can be a better choice than one selected only for its reputation.

Start with our Utah hunt-unit guide, then use the official Utah Hunt Planner to check the hunt you intend to apply for. Return to the Utah state overview to explore species and planning resources.