WHAT IS THE ILLINOIS HUNTER EDUCATION PROGRAM?

The Illinois Hunter Education Program consists of a minimum of 10 hours of instruction. These courses cover the basics of hunter responsibility, wildlife conservation and identification, firearms and ammunition, field safety, wildlife management, first aid, archery, muzzleloading, and state regulations.

Persons completing the minimum 10 hours of instruction and successfully completing the final examination will receive a State of Illinois Certificate of Competency and a graduate patch.

WHO MUST TAKE THE COURSE?

On January 1, 1996, a State law was passed that anyone born on or after January 1, 1980 may not be issued a hunting license unless:

*they present a valid Hunter Education Certificate of Competency issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Safety Education Division.

*or they present evidence he or she has held a hunting license issued by the State of Illinois or another state in a prior year.

WHERE ARE COURSES AVAILABLE?

Courses are FREE and sponsored by various conservation clubs, public service organizations, park districts, schools and other interest groups in the state.

WHY TAKE A HUNTER EDUCATION COURSE?

Many states are now requiring adult hunters to furnish evidence of having completed a Hunter Education Course prior to issuance of a non-resident license.

The shooting sports, both hunting and target, are lifetime recreational activities enjoyed by millions of Americans. The Illinois Hunter Education Program was designed to improve safety and to develop an attitude of respect for wildlife and the environment.