Michigan DNR Drawing Results: Did You Win? Find Out Now!

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conducts several lottery-based drawings each cycle. Hunters and anglers utilize the Michigan eLicense system to apply for these coveted opportunities. Accessing the official DNR website is how individuals determine their michigan dnr drawing results. Checking these results is crucial for knowing if you have the chance to pursue game in a limited-access area.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Michigan DNR , from the video titled MI Bear Draw Preference Point System Explained .
Michigan DNR Drawing Results: Your Comprehensive Guide
This article aims to provide a clear and easy-to-understand guide on how to check your michigan dnr drawing results and understand what they mean. We’ll cover where to find the results, how to interpret them, and what to do next, depending on your drawing status.
Finding Your Michigan DNR Drawing Results
The first step is knowing where to look. The Michigan DNR offers several ways to access drawing results.
Online via the Michigan DNR E-License System
This is generally the fastest and most convenient method.
- Accessing the System: Go to the official Michigan DNR E-License website (typically mi.gov/dnr, then navigate to hunting and fishing licenses, then E-License, but specific links can change, so always start at the official MI.gov site).
- Logging In: You'll need your DNR customer ID and date of birth to log in to your account.
- Navigating to Drawing Results: Once logged in, look for a section specifically labeled "Drawing Results" or something similar. This may be under "My Account" or "Applications."
- Viewing Results: Within the "Drawing Results" section, you should see a list of any drawings you've applied for. Each drawing will have a status indicator.
By Visiting a DNR Customer Service Center
If you prefer in-person assistance or lack internet access, you can visit a DNR Customer Service Center.
- Finding a Location: Locate the nearest DNR Customer Service Center using the DNR website's locator tool (again, mi.gov/dnr is the starting point).
- Providing Information: You will likely need to provide your DNR customer ID or other identifying information to retrieve your drawing results.
- In-Person Assistance: Staff at the center can assist you in understanding your results.
Via Mail (Historically, less common but still possible)
In some instances, particularly for certain types of drawings, the DNR may send results via mail.
- Check Your Mailbox: Keep an eye on your mailbox, especially around the expected release dates for specific drawing results.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: If you receive your results by mail, carefully read all enclosed instructions.
Understanding Your Drawing Results
The results will vary depending on the specific drawing you applied for, but generally, you'll see one of the following statuses:
- Successful/Selected: Congratulations! You were selected for the drawing. You'll likely need to purchase the appropriate license or permit.
- Unsuccessful/Not Selected: Unfortunately, you were not selected in the drawing.
- Alternate: You were placed on an alternate list. If selected applicants decline or are unable to claim their permits, alternates may be chosen. Your chances of being selected as an alternate vary depending on the drawing and the number of available permits.
- Pending: The results are still being processed. Check back later.
- Waitlisted: Similar to "Alternate", but potentially with a specific ranking.
Key Information on Results Pages
The results page will typically display more than just the outcome. Look for the following:
- Drawing Name: Clearly identifies the specific drawing.
- Permit Type: Specifies the type of permit you applied for (e.g., antlerless deer, elk, bear).
- Hunt Unit: Indicates the specific area you're authorized to hunt in if selected.
- Season Dates: Shows the dates the permit is valid for.
- Status: Indicates whether you were selected, not selected, or are an alternate.
- Instructions: Crucially important! This section will tell you what steps to take next, particularly if you were selected.
What to Do After Receiving Your Results
Your next steps depend entirely on your drawing status.
If You Were Selected
- Purchase Your License/Permit: Follow the instructions on the results page to purchase your license or permit within the specified timeframe. Missing the deadline can result in forfeiture of your opportunity.
- Review Regulations: Thoroughly review all relevant hunting or fishing regulations for the specific hunt unit and season.
- Plan Your Hunt/Trip: Start planning your hunt or trip, keeping in mind all applicable regulations and safety precautions.
If You Were Not Selected
- Consider Other Opportunities: Explore other hunting or fishing opportunities that don't require a drawing.
- Apply Again Next Year: Remember to apply again in future drawings!
- Learn from the Experience: Analyze your application strategy for future drawings (e.g., did you choose a popular hunt unit?).
If You Are an Alternate or Waitlisted
- Monitor Your Email/Account: Check your email and DNR account regularly for updates.
- Be Prepared to Act Quickly: If you are selected as an alternate, you'll likely have a limited time to purchase the license/permit.
Understanding Drawing Odds
It's helpful to understand the odds of winning a particular drawing.
- DNR Website Resources: The Michigan DNR often publishes statistics on drawing success rates for previous years. Look for this information on the DNR website or in their hunting and fishing digests.
- Factors Affecting Odds: Drawing odds are affected by the number of available permits and the number of applicants. More popular hunt units generally have lower odds.
- Strategic Application: Consider applying for less popular hunt units to increase your chances of being selected.
Important Reminders About Michigan DNR Drawings
- Application Deadlines: Pay close attention to application deadlines for each drawing.
- Accurate Information: Ensure all information you provide on your application is accurate.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Always read and understand all instructions provided by the DNR.
- Check Regularly: Regularly check your email and DNR account for updates.
- DNR Contact Information: Keep the Michigan DNR's contact information handy in case you have questions.
Drawing Type | Typical Application Period | Result Release Timing |
---|---|---|
Deer | May 1st - June 1st | Late June/Early July |
Elk | May 1st - June 1st | Late June/Early July |
Bear | May 1st - June 1st | Late June/Early July |
Waterfowl | Varies, check DNR Website | Varies, check DNR Website |
Note: Dates are approximate and can vary from year to year. Always confirm specific dates on the official Michigan DNR website (mi.gov/dnr).

Video: Michigan DNR Drawing Results: Did You Win? Find Out Now!
Michigan DNR Drawing Results: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Michigan DNR drawing results and how to check if you were a winner.
How do I check my Michigan DNR drawing results?
You can check your Michigan DNR drawing results online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ E-License system. You’ll need your DNR customer ID and date of birth to log in and view your applications. Alternatively, you can check your results by visiting a DNR Customer Service Center.
What do the different drawing statuses mean?
A "Successful" status for your Michigan DNR drawing results means you were selected and awarded the permit. "Unsuccessful" means you were not selected. Other statuses might indicate a pending review or incomplete application. Check the DNR website for specific status definitions.
When are the Michigan DNR drawing results usually available?
The release dates vary depending on the specific drawing. Refer to the Michigan DNR website or your application confirmation for the expected release timeframe. Typically, results are posted within a few weeks after the application deadline.
What happens if I win a permit through the Michigan DNR drawing?
If your Michigan DNR drawing results show you've won, you'll typically receive instructions on how to claim and purchase your permit. There's usually a deadline to claim it, so monitor your account and email for notifications. Follow the DNR's instructions carefully to secure your permit.
Well, that's everything you need to know to check your michigan dnr drawing results! Fingers crossed that you drew the tag you were hoping for. Good luck out there!