Washington State law requires all individuals born after 1 January 1972 to show proof of basic hunter education training before purchasing a hunting license. There are no exceptions to the law. Classes are offered year-round and interested individuals are encouraged to enroll in classes as early as possible. Summer and fall classes fill up rapidly and there may not be available spaces for late season classes.
There is no minimum age required to enroll in hunter education, but instructors may require a parent or guardian to attend all classes if students are under 12 years of age.
Individuals who have a previous Washington hunting license or a valid Washington hunter education training certificate need only show these documents to a license vendor in order to purchase a new, hunting license.
Non-resident hunters born after January 1, 1972 are also required to prove successful completion of hunter education training before purchasing a hunting license. Please plan non-resident hunting license purchases in advance! Failure to present the necessary documentation to the hunting license vendor will lead to disappointment!
Individuals who have successfully completed hunter education training in other states need only show their out-of-state hunter education certificate at the time of license purchase. Please note that an out-of-state license is not the same as a hunter education certificate.
Hunter education classes focus on three broad topical areas: (1) Firearms and outdoor safety; (2) Wildlife management; and, (3) Hunter responsibility. The average class includes 4 - 6 sessions spanning 16+ hours.
Successful students must pass a written test, demonstrate safe firearms handling skills and a positive attitude.
All hunter education classes are taught by instructors certified by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
