Washington’s Hunter Safety Education Program

Formal hunter education efforts began in the late 1940s and later expanded nationwide until it is now required almost everywhere, including Washington. Since the implementation of education, there has been a tremendous decline in hunting-related incidents across the country.

By completing and passing this Washington-approved online hunting license course, you will have satisfied the educational requirement for Washington.

Get Safe. Get Certified. It’s the Law!

Who Needs the Certificate?

Washington State law requires all individuals born after January 1, 1972, to show proof of basic hunter education training before purchasing a hunting license.

Exemptions

Beginning July 26, 2009, members of the U.S. military who have a valid military identification or Form DD 214 are exempt from the skills portion of the hunter education course and are not required to attend a Field Skills Training and Evaluation session. You must send a copy of your Exam Certificate, a copy of your DD 214 or military I.D., and your Washington Online Military Exemption Form (with exemption section completed) to WDFW.

Good in Other States

All states and provinces that have mandatory hunter education requirements will accept Washington Hunter Education certifications. Likewise, Washington will accept Hunter Education certifications that are issued by other states and provinces that meet official IHEA requirements. (This is known as “reciprocity.”)

Why Hunter Education?

Since states have begun requiring hunter education, over the last 30 years hunting incidents have drastically decreased, while the number of hunters has increased. Today, hunting is one of the safest outdoor activities you can enjoy.

Age Restrictions

Minimum Age There are no minimum age requirements to take the Washington Hunter’s Ed Course.

For More Information

For additional information on hunter education in Washington contact:

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
1111 Washington St. SE
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 902-2200
http://wdfw.wa.gov/