Hunter and Bowhunter Education

Idaho Fish and Game's hunter education programs are not just for youth and not just for hunters. They're for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and has an interest in conservation. Enroll in a course anywhere in the state and learn more about:

• Hunter responsibility and ethics
• How firearms work and info about their safety
• How to improve your wildlife identification, game care, survival and first aid skills
• Firearm handling skills and hunting techniques
• Increasing your awareness about wildlife conservation and management

The hunter education programs are mandated by the State Legislature and assist Idahoans to be safe and ethical hunters. Classes are taught by certified volunteer instructors and are offered throughout the state all year long.

Course material fees for both Hunter Education and Bowhunter Education classes are $8.00 per person regardless of age and must be paid at the time of registration.

Register/View Courses Here

Hunter Education

• Anyone born after January 1, 1975 must complete a hunter education course in order to purchase an Idaho hunting license or show proof that they previously held a valid hunting license in Idaho or another state.
• All students must be 10 years old by the next general hunting season.
• Hunter education course options:
• Instructor-led - a traditional classroom course.
• Independent Study Course - a workbook-based course OR an interactive internet course.
• Course classes average 18-21 hours including range firing and field exercise. A certificate and card will be awarded upon completion of the course.

Bowhunter Education

• To purchase an archery-only hunting permit a person must complete the Idaho Bowhunter Education Course or show proof of having completed an approved bowhunter education course in another state or proof that the person previously held a valid archery permit in Idaho or another state.
• In addition, the Hunter Education Course must also be completed by anyone born after January 1, 1975, unless the person can show proof they previously held a valid hunting license in Idaho or another state.
• Bowhunter Education course options:
• Instructor-led - a traditional classroom course.
• Independent Study Course - an interactive internet course.
• Course classes average 12-14 hours including field experience.
• A certificate and card will be awarded upon completion of the course.

  Hunter or Bowhunter Education Course Registration  - Two Options  

Option 1: Register at a Fish and Game Office

• Students must register in advance at a regional office, at the headquarters office in Boise (208-334-3700) or at the Hunter Education Center (208-327-7159).
• The course material fee is $8.00 per person and can be paid by check or cash. Checks should be made out to "Idaho Department of Fish and Game".

Option 2: Register via the Internet

• Fish and Game also offers an online course registration service. This optional service provides an opportunity to register for a hunter or bowhunter course from any location having Internet access.
• Total cost to register for a course using this option is: $9.31 per person.
• $8.00 course material fee plus $1.31 "convenience fee" ($1 to service provider; $0.31 for bank transaction charges).
• Payable by credit card (Visa, Master Card, Discover Card, or American Express) to the service provider, Access Idaho, at the time of registration.
• The "convenience fee" is charged only to individuals choosing this option (Option 2) to register for a course.

Register/View Courses Here