To specify a little more as to what calbuck was saying, general tags are good for a specific zone. Each zone contains a number of GMU's from 1-9 although most will offer 3-4 specific units. Most of the zones have OTC tags either "A" tags which typically offer more archery/muzzleloader opportunities or "B" tags which typically offer more rifle opportunities. Many of the zones have a quota that may or may not sell out quickly. There is also a statewide quota for nonresident elk tags(7500 I think?). So here's a summary for you to purchase an elk tag in Idaho as a nonresident.
1) Do your research and determine which zone you would like to hunt
2) Decide which weapon you would like to hunt with and check that specific zone's "A" and "B" tag opportunities.
3) Nonresident tags go on sale in December so if you would like into some of the more difficult quota zones you may have to buy nearly a year in advance
4) Even if your particular zone has no quota you still need to ensure that the statewide quota has not sold out, it usually doesn't until August when leftovers become available as second tag opportunity but this may change as more people start looking for out of state opportunities.
5) Show up, hunt, and have fun
I forgot to add in there that if you do buy early there are still a myriad of Controlled elk tags that are available, and since you are already buying the license and tag and Idaho has no point system you may as well drop your $14.75 in the bucket and shoot for the moon. If you were to draw you would have to trade in your general tag for said controlled hunt and if you don't get lucky, well you're out about 3 cups of Starbucks. The application period is open now until June 5th so you're not too late this year. Good luck to ya.
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