Hunters are selected for a Michigan elk hunting license using a random weighted lottery system that began in 2003. In this system, hunters receive one additional "chance" in future drawings each year they apply for an elk license and are unsuccessful in the drawing.
    Applicants have the option to purchase a "chance only" instead of applying for a license. You may not apply for an elk license and purchase a chance only in the same year. A person may accumulate only one chance per year.
    A weighted lottery provides some advantage to those individuals that area persistent in applying, while still providing an opportunity to all applicants, even those who are applying for the first time. It is possible for first-time applicants to be successful in any drawing. In addition, there is no guarantee of being drawn in a weighted lottery regardless of the number of chances accumulated.
    The chance standing of any applicant who is successful in the elk drawing will return to zero chances after the drawing.
    Persons who fail to apply, or are ineligible to apply, for an elk license for three consecutive years will lose their accumulated chances.
    Chances are tracked based on your customer ID (driver license or DNR sportcard). Chances cannot be transferred to or combined with another person's chances. Applicants may check their total chances at DNR's e-license website
Note: If you are using a new ID to apply this year, call 517-373-1263 to move your previous chances to your new ID. Any previous chances not moved to your new ID by June 1 will not be considered in the drawing.