Tag & Tine
State guides · Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Colorado draw points, explained

Mixed point systems

Colorado uses preference points: in the spring primary draw, applicants with the most points for a species draw first. You earn a point each time you miss your first choice, or by applying with the point-only code. One thing to know: you must buy a current-year qualifying license (such as small game) before you can apply, even if you only want a point. Big rule changes arrive for the 2028 draw.

See Colorado draw odds

How to start applying in Colorado

  1. Complete hunter education
    This step is in the member guide.
  2. Create your CPW account
    This step is in the member guide.
  3. Wait for the primary draw to open
    This step is in the member guide.
  4. Add a qualifying license to your cart
    This step is in the member guide.
  5. Apply for a point or a hunt
    This step is in the member guide.
  6. Check your entries before the deadline
    This step is in the member guide.
  7. Read results and confirm your point
    This step is in the member guide.
  8. Keep applying each year
    This step is in the member guide.
  9. Plan for 2028 changes
    This step is in the member guide.