TPWD Hunter Ed - Overview

Every hunter (including out-of-state hunters) born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, must successfully complete a Hunter Education Training Course. Minimum age of certification is 9 years of age. We offer the Basic and Enhanced courses (details below).

If you were born on or after September 2, 1971 and you are:

• under 9 years of age, you must be accompanied*.
• age 9 through 16, you must successfully complete a hunter education course, or you must be accompanied*.
• age 17 and over, you must successfully complete a hunter education course; or purchase a “Hunter Education Deferral” and you must be accompanied*.

Please note that some federally controlled areas require all hunters using that site to have hunter education certification. In Texas, this includes Corps of Engineers property and most military reservations. Be sure to check with the specific area prior to going hunting.

* Accompanied means: By a person who is at least 17, who is licensed to hunt in Texas, who has passed hunter education or is exempt (born before Sept. 2, 1971), and you must be within normal voice control. Proof of certification or deferral is required to be on your person while hunting. Note: Certification is not required to purchase a hunting license.

TPWD Hunter Ed - Basic

This course is designed for novice or young hunters, ages 9 years and above. The course covers the core competencies of firearm and hunting safety, Hunting ethics and wildlife conservation. All materials are provided. The Basic Hunter Education Course lasts a maximum of 6 hours of classroom instruction. This time does not include registration, breaks, test administration and certification card distribution. Courses are offered across the state year round and are taught by certified volunteer instructors.

TPWD Hunter Ed - Enhanced

This course is designed to be a Field Day exercise to complement the online Hunter Education training. The Field Course includes: a presentation of ethical and responsible hunting, participation in a hunting skills trail, a live fire exercise, review of regulations and a final exam (score at least 75% to pass). The Field Course is completed in one day and includes 4 hours of instruction.