Currently, discussions on issues related to further improvement and development of Russian legislation of mineral resources, are very active and sharp. It is understandable due to the fact that mineral resources influence economic and social stability in the country. In this article the main ways for establishment of the initial payment size for the use of natural resources are examined. The advantages and disadvantages of the main methods of evaluation,used abroad, as well as the possibility of their use in Russia were reviewed. The amount of the auctions, given and renewed licenses in 2011 is also represented.