Returned Sold-Out Tags

Occasionally, hunters return general season tags that can be redistributed. For instance, from sold-out capped elk zones.

Returned sold-out tag events are established to provide transparency and fair access to these tags.

Eligible returned tags include:

• Sold-out nonresident capped elk zones
• Sold-out nonresident elk tags
• Sold-out nonresident deer tags
• Resident capped elk zones
• Nonresident outfitter tags for elk and for regular deer
• Nonresident outfitter tags for capped elk zones
• Resident and nonresident controlled hunts

Exchanging Tag Conditions

These statements are meant to direct you to the right place to make an exchange.

General Season Tags

General season tags can only be exchanged for other general season tags online or via telephone sales.

General season tags that currently have or have had an open hunting season cannot be exchanged for other general season tags.

Controlled Hunt Tags Exchanging for General Tags

Controlled hunt tags may not be exchanged for general season tags online or via telephones sales but can be done at an IDFG Regional or Headquarters office.

Exchanging Tags

Exchanges can only be made online, via telephone sales, or at Fish and Game Offices during Returned Tag Sales. License vendors will not be able to exchange tags.

• Exchange online
• Exchange by phone: (800) 554-8685

Hunters who successfully exchange their tag must return the original tag to Fish and Game before the new tag will be sent to them. 

Mail returned tags for exchange to:

IDFG Licenses
P.O. Box 25
Boise, ID 83707

Question: What is the period for me to do an exchange? 

Answer: Tag exchanges for units/zones that are not sold out are allowed before the beginning of any portion of the hunting season of the tag held. Exchanges can be done via mail and in-person at IDFG regional offices. Online exchanges can be completed during returned tag sales. More information on returned tag sales, including sale dates, can be found at idfg.idaho.gov/tag/returns.