Hunter Safety Classes

Q:  What will I learn in the Hunter Education Course and how long will it take?
A:  The Hunter Education Course consists of a minimum of 10 hours of classroom, homework, and field instruction in the following areas: firearms safety and handling, sportsmanship and ethics, wildlife management and conservation, archery, black powder, wildlife identification, game care, first aid, and survival. After a student has successfully completed the course of instruction and passed the final examination, they are awarded a Certificate of Completion. Parents are encouraged to participate with their children in the course and its related activities. There is not a minimum age requirement to take the course, but young children may find the course demanding.

A fee may not be charged for an instructor’s service; however, fees may be used to cover the purchase of training aids such as slides, flip charts, targets, and other training aids.   The Hunter Education Instructor makes the final decision in determining whether a student is qualified to receive a Certificate of Completion. A student who is unsafe, or fails to demonstrate good sportsmanship will not be issued a Certificate of Completion.

Q:  Are senior citizens exempt from having to take a hunter education course?
A:  No.

Q:  Is a law enforcement officer (active duty, reserve or retired military) required to take a hunter education course even if they have had firearms training?
A:  Yes.  All first time California hunters must successfully complete a hunter education training course or pass an equivalency exam.  Visit our web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/index.html for more information.