How to Buy Preference Points in Wyoming for Future Hunts
If you're planning to hunt in Wyoming down the road, one of the smartest things you can do right now is build up preference points. These points improve your odds of drawing a tag in the future, especially for high-demand units.
When Can You Purchase Preference Points?
Wyoming allows hunters to buy preference points from July 1 through October 31 each year. This applies to those looking ahead to future hunts—if you didn’t draw this season, this is your window to secure a point for next time.
Nonresidents can buy points for: deer, elk, antelope, moose, and bighorn sheep
Residents can only buy points for: moose and bighorn sheep
❗Note: Wyoming does not offer preference points for bison or mountain goat.
Why It Matters
Since 2019, Wyoming no longer automatically gives you a preference point if you don't draw a tag for deer, elk, or antelope. That means if you want to keep building your points each year, you’ll need to log in and buy them manually during the July–October window.
How Much Do Preference Points Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of current preference point fees in Wyoming:
| Species | Resident | Nonresident | Nonresident Youth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deer | N/A | $41 | $10 |
| Elk | N/A | $52 | $10 |
| Antelope | N/A | $31 | $10 |
| Moose | $7 | $150 | $150 |
| Bighorn Sheep | $7 | $150 | $150 |
Youth must be at least 11 years old at the time of applying and must turn 12 by December 31 of the year to be eligible.
Understanding Wyoming’s Draw System
Wyoming uses a hybrid draw system:
75% of tags go to applicants with the most preference points (the “regular” draw)
25% of tags are randomly awarded, giving everyone a chance regardless of points
So even if you’re just starting out, you still have a shot at drawing. But stacking up points definitely increases your odds in high-demand areas.
How to Buy Preference Points Online (Step-by-Step)
Here’s how to buy preference points directly from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD):
Visit wgfd.wyo.gov.
Click on “Apply or Buy” at the top of the page.
Scroll to “Apply for Licenses” (not "Buy Licenses").
Click “Continue” under the Online Application Service.
Accept the credit card service charge agreement.
Log in or create a WGFD account.
Review and confirm your personal information.
Look for the Preference Points option in your dashboard.
Click “Apply – Pref Points”.
Accept the terms again, then select your residency status.
Choose the species you'd like to buy points for.
Add them to your cart.
Want more? Click “Add Application” and repeat for other species.
Click “Checkout Now” once you’re ready.
You’ll have the option to make a donation (optional).
Optionally, you can also enter Wyoming’s Super Tag raffle.
Enter your credit card info and submit your payment.
Once the transaction is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email, and your preference points will be updated in your WGFD profile.
Keep Track of Your Points
Once you've purchased your points, it's a good idea to note them somewhere safe—whether that’s your hunting journal, spreadsheet, or whatever you use to track your application history.
Final Thoughts
Building preference points in Wyoming is a long-term strategy that can open doors to some incredible hunting opportunities. Whether you’re after elk in the high country or mule deer on the plains, starting now will pay off in the seasons to come.
If you’ve got questions or tips about the Wyoming draw, feel free to share them in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.
