What to Expect from a Hunting Safety Course

If you’re new to the exciting world of hunting, you may be wondering how to get started.

You’ll want to decide where and what type of game you’ll be hunting, of course. You need to make sure you have all the proper gear, and that you know how to use a firearm safely.

On top of all that, you’ll need to get a hunting license from your state of residence. All 50 states have their own hunting regulations for obtaining a license. One requirement for new hunters is that you must complete a hunting education course and pass an exam. 

Hunting education prepares you to stay safe and enjoy a better experience when you head outdoors. In the state of Missouri alone, hunting accidents and deaths dropped significantly after hunting classes became mandatory in 1987. 

Here’s what you can expect about completing the hunting safety course in your state and obtaining your hunting license, so you can foster a secure and enjoyable hunting experience.

Hunting Certification Requirements

Consult with your state’s conservation department for specific hunting regulations where you live. Specific requirements for a hunting license, such as training and minimum age, vary by state. 

What is the Best Way to Learn Hunting-Related Safety Skills? 

Hunter safety education typically includes in-person classroom instruction and online coursework. Many programs also include hands-on training in the field. Training culminates in a test that includes a written and hands-on evaluation. 

Some states will let you complete your entire hunter education course online, although age restrictions and other requirements may apply. Depending on the state, there may even be free hunter safety courses online.

For example, hunter training in Illinois includes instructor-led courses, online self study and attending a field day course. 

Missouri has different new hunter education options based on age. Safety training includes a knowledge portion, a hands-on skills session and final exam. The knowledge portion includes classroom and online formats.

Hunting Safety Course Curriculum

The purpose of hunting education is to prepare you to enjoy a safe, ethical and legal hunting experience.

A typical hunting safety curriculum will cover a range of useful topics such as: 

• Hunting responsibility and ethics
• Hunting regulations specific to your state
• Wildlife identification, management and conservation practices
• Field safety, survival and first aid techniques
• Safe handling of firearms and ammunition
• Different hunting methods and techniques, such as bow hunting, use of tree stands and game care

Book Your First Hunting Adventure

Once you’ve completed your safety training and obtained your license, you’ll be ready to head out into the great outdoors.

A Huunt membership makes it easy to book a hunting or fishing trip for you and your guests. Our listings include guided and self-guided hunts, and you can search by game species and location.

Sign up for a membership to get started and browse our listings to book a trip. Have a question? Send us an email to [email protected].