An in-depth guide to obtaining a hunting license in Portugal
Editor
Hunting has been an integral part of Portuguese culture and tradition for centuries. Whether you are drawn to the sport for its connection to nature, the thrill of the chase, or the camaraderie, you will surely find it all here. As usual, hunting in Portugal is a regulated activity requiring proper licensing and certification.
Important Terminology for Hunting in Portugal
To hunt legally in Portugal, you’ll need at least three essential documents:
Hunting License (Carta de Caçador)
Similar to a driver’s license, the Hunting License is obtained by passing an exam administered by the ICNF (Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas). This license is a one-time certification that permits you to engage in hunting activities.
Hunting Permit (Licença de Caça)
This is a seasonal document that must be purchased annually if you plan to hunt during the designated hunting season. Without it, hunting is prohibited even if you hold a valid Hunting License
Hunting Insurance
Liability insurance for hunting is mandatory by law. This ensures coverage for potential accidents or damages during hunting activities.
Firearm Injury Insurance (if applicable)
If you plan to hunt using firearms, you are required to have additional insurance that covers firearm-related injuries. Most hunting insurance packages already include this coverage, but it’s worth confirming with your provider
Note: Both carta de caçador and licença de caça are often translated into English as “hunting license”, which can create confusion when communicating with locals. Understanding the distinction is crucial for good communication with locals.
What Is a Hunting Permit?
Once you’ve passed the ICNF exam and obtained your hunting license (carta de caçador), the next step—if you intend to go hunting—is to purchase a hunting permit. This permit is required by law and must be carried with you whenever you are hunting.Currently, the permit can only be purchased at an ATM (Multibanco). After completing the transaction, you’ll receive a small receipt printed by the ATM, which serves as your official hunting permit. Unfortunately, this process is not yet available online.When purchasing your hunting permit, you’ll need to choose one of three options:
Country-wide Permit (Licença Nacional)
This permit allows you to hunt anywhere in Portugal throughout the hunting season..
Regional Permit (Licença Regional)
This option is limited to a specific region within Portugal, granting you the right to hunt only within that designated area.
Non-Resident Permit (Licença para Não Residentes)Non-Resident Permit (Licença para Não Residentes)
Designed for non-residents, this permit allows you to hunt anywhere in Portugal for either 30 consecutive days or the full season.
Prices for hunting permits can vary, but as of now, the annual country-wide permit typically costs under €100. For up-to-date details and official documentation, visit ICNF’s website or contact them directly.
Formal hunting regulations in Portugal
Portuguese hunting laws, are governed by the Decreto-Lei nº 202/2004, as amended, found here. These laws regulate hunting seasons, permitted game species, and designated hunting zones. Hunting without a license is a civil offense and can lead to severe penalties, including fines and confiscation of equipment. Key points to remember:
Hunting is allowed only during the hunting seasons.
Certain game species and hunting methods may be restricted, even during the hunting season.
Hunters must comply with safety standards and conservation principles at all times.
Eligibility requirements
To apply for a hunting license in Portugal, you must meet the following criteria:
Age
Be at least 16 years old.
Health
Provide proof of physical and mental fitness to handle firearms safely.
Clean Record
Have no legal restrictions related to hunting.
Obtaining the Necessary Documents
To apply for your hunting license, gather the following documents:
Identification
A valid Portuguese ID card (Cartão de Cidadão).
Medical Certificate
Issued by a licensed physician confirming you’re fit to handle firearms.
Criminal Record
You must provide a recent criminal record from registocriminal.justica.gov.pt
Membership in a Hunting Association
(optional but recommended)
Membership can provide benefits such as insurance coverage and access to hunting areas.
Applying for a Hunting License
The application process can be done online or in person at Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas (ICNF) offices.
Online Application
Visit the ICNF website.
Create an account or log in using your credentials.
Fill out the application form and upload the required documents.
Pay the application fee via the platform.
In-Person Application
Visit your nearest ICNF office.
Submit the completed application form along with the required documents.
Pay the fee directly at the office.
Preparing for the Exam
To set yourself up for success on the hunting license exam, start by purchasing the official manual from the ICNF. This ensures you’re studying the most accurate and up-to-date material on hunting laws, ethics, and safety.
Once you’ve reviewed the manual, visit our ICNF Exam Preparation Page to practice with real exam questions. These resources will help you build confidence and ensure you’re ready for test day.
After passing the exam, your hunter’s license (carta de caçador) should arrive at the address you provided within approximately one month.
I Have a License and a Permit—Can I Start Hunting?
You’re almost ready! In Portugal, hunting is organized into six types of hunting zones, but three are most relevant to hunters:
Associative Hunting Zone (Zona de Caça Associativa – AHZ)
A private hunting area managed by a club. Only members and their guests are allowed to hunt here.
Municipal Hunting Zone (Zona de Caça Municipal – MHZ)
A semi-public hunting area where hunting activities must be scheduled in advance.
Touristic Hunting Zone (Zona de Caça Turística – THZ)
A commercial hunting area typically managed by a private company, where hunting is arranged as part of a service offering.
To begin hunting, you must contact the responsible individual or organization managing the hunting zone you wish to visit. They will assist you in scheduling your hunt and provide any necessary guidelines specific to that area.
Both locals and tourists can more easily identify the appropriate contact by visiting rubus.icnf.pt. This platform allows you to search for hunting zones and locate the managing entity for each area.Alternatively, you can use the ICNF Hunting Zone Map, which provides an overview of all hunting zones in Portugal, helping you find a location that suits your interests. For additional details and official guidance, consult the ICNF’s documentation available here.
Following Seasonal Regulations
Once you have your hunting license, respect the rules regarding:
Open Seasons
Hunting is only permitted during designated times for each game species.
Bag Limits
Restrictions on the number and type of animals that can be hunted.
Protected Areas
Hunting is prohibited in nature reserves and other conservation areas.
Detailed regulations are published annually by the ICNF and can be found on their website.
Joining a Hunting Association
While not mandatory, joining a hunting association can provide benefits such as:
Access to private hunting grounds.
Networking with experienced hunters.
Educational workshops and events.
Staying Informed
Hunting laws and regulations may change, so stay updated by:
Checking the ICNF website regularly.
Subscribing to hunting magazines and newsletters.
Attending informational events and workshops hosted by hunting organizations.
Conclusion
Hunting in Portugal is a rewarding experience that connects you with nature while adhering to sustainable practices. By following this guide and respecting the laws, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy this traditional activity safely and responsibly.Happy hunting, and may your adventures be fruitful!
Sources
The official documentation can be found at ICNF's website.