Find a Hunter Education Course

Department of Fish and Wildlife

Last updated 05/09/2019

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Description

A Hunter Education Certificate is a requirement for obtaining a California Hunting License. Classes are offered throughout the State by more than 1,000 certified volunteer instructors, all dedicated to keeping hunting safe, ethical, and available to all Californians.

Phone: 916-653-1235

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a hunter education class online?
Yes and no. Online classes are offered in California, but to obtain a valid hunter education certificate, you will ALSO need to attend a 4-hour home study / online follow-up class with a certified hunter education instructor. The online course will not get you a certificate. The benefit of taking an online class is having the ability to study at your own pace, and that you only have to take a 4-hour follow-up classroom session (versus a 10+ hour class). See more about Online Classes.
How old do you have to be to take a hunter education class?
There is not a minimum age requirement to take the course, but young children may find the course demanding. A Hunter Education Instructor may be able help you decide whether your child is old enough.
Where can I find more FAQs regarding Hunter Education?
Visit the Full FAQ
Who needs hunter education?
In most states, hunters cannot hunt legally unless they have had some type of formal education in the proper handling of firearms. Today, California requires hunter education training for all persons who have not formerly held a California hunting license; who do not have a hunter education certificate of completion; or who do not have a current, valid, hunting license from another state or province.

Related services

Get a Fishing or Hunting License

Keywords

Bow Hunting, Certificate, Hunt, Hunting, Safety,