Hunter Safety 101

With hunting season just around the corner, some families are looking forward to allowing their children and young ones to hunt for the very first time! Likewise, other more experienced hunters may be looking to reacquaint themselves with updated hunting safety laws and regulations before the hunting season begins. In any case, it is important that you are aware of and certified for your state’s hunter education course and training so that you have the necessary license before you begin shooting. 

Why is knowing hunter safety so important? Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about hunter safety in the state of Texas:  

Why Do I Need A Hunter Education Course?

All hunters, no matter the age or level of experience, are required to have a hunting license and proof of certification on their person while they are hunting. Specifically, hunters born on or after September 2, 1971, need a hunting license. Out-of-state hunters are also required to have a valid license for the state they are hunting in. This is obtained through a hunter education course. Hunter education certification is good for life once you have successfully passed the requirements and exam.  

What is the Minimum Age Requirement to Obtain Hunter Education Certification?

The minimum age requirement to take the course is 9 years old, however, people under the age of 9 years old may be allowed to take the course if they are accompanied by a person of at least 17 years of age who is licensed to hunt in Texas, has taken and passed a hunter education course or was born before September 2, 1971. The child must also be within normal voice control at the time of course enrollment. 

How long does the course take to complete?

An in-person class can be completed in one day, with a maximum of 6 hours of classroom instruction. You can also take the exam to be certified on the same day of the course. People over the age of 17 years also have the option to take the course online, which can range in length of about 2-4 hours. The cost of the in-person class is $15, however, instructors may charge additional fees for the site. Online course costs vary depending on the instructor/provider. 

What is Covered in the Hunter Education Course?

Hunter Education courses can cover core standards of firearm and hunting safety, hunting ethics, wildlife conservation, and hunting responsibilities. Some field-courses may also cover hands-on skills and live-fire excerises and demonstrations. Other classroom courses may also include topics relating to bowhunting, muzzleloaders, and outdoor survival and safety, though bowhunting education certification is not included in the course. 

If you are interested in taking a hunter safety course or are interested in a safe shooting range to practice your firearm skills, look no further than 5H Shooting Sports in Frankston, TX. 5H Shooting Sports is everything you need in a shooting range! From classes to special events, 5H has everything you need to learn how to shoot your gun safely and with precision! For more information on cleaning tips and firing arms in general, visit our website or give us a call at (903) 876-2772!

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Sources: 

https://tpwd.texas.gov/education/hunter-education/faq/#course

https://tpwd.elementlms.com/course/hunter-education-classroom-course-3333/

https://tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/hunting/hunter-education