Hunters are encouraged to submit their applications for the Colorado big game primary draw early to avoid complications or delays. Prepare ahead so that if problems do arise, Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff members have time to provide assistance. This year's application deadline is Tuesday, April 4, at 8:00 p.m. Mountain Time.

Qualifying licenses

Hunters must purchase a 2023 qualifying license to participate in the big game draws. All qualifying licenses are available beginning March 1 and must be purchased, or put into your online shopping cart, prior to applying for all big game licenses or preference points. A 2022 license is not a qualifying license for 2023.

Which licenses count as qualifying licenses?

Resident and Nonresident

• Annual Spring Turkey License
• Annual Youth Spring Turkey License
• Annual Fall Turkey License (valid for the secondary draw ONLY)
• Annual Youth Fall Turkey License (valid for the secondary draw ONLY)
• Annual Small Game License
• Annual Youth Small Game License

Resident Only

• Annual Resident Combination Small Game/Fishing License
• Annual Resident Senior Combination Small Game/Fishing License
• Resident Disabled Veteran Lifetime Combination Small Game/Fishing License
• Resident Disabled First Responder Lifetime Combination Small Game/Fishing License
• Annual Small-Game License for Resident Senior Lifetime Fishing License Holders

To learn more about Qualifying Licenses, visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.