OLYMPIA, WA — Looking forward to the fall hunting seasons? The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) encourages new hunters to complete their mandatory hunter education course as soon as possible during some of the many summer offerings.

“Many WDFW volunteer instructors hold hunter education classes in the summer, making it easier to get into a class,” said Dave Whipple, WDFW hunter education section manager. “In the fall, those same volunteers are out hunting, which means we have fewer courses available. Completing the course now ensures you will be able to participate in hunting seasons this fall and beyond.”

WDFW offers fully in-person hunter education courses as well as hybrid courses that combine online and in-person learning. The in-person course, consisting of roughly 15 hours of instruction, is taught over multiple days and includes a field portion. This course is highly recommended for students seeking a valuable classroom experience.

The hybrid course combines successful completion of an online portion followed by a four- to six-hour field skills evaluation where students receive hands-on training and evaluation by certified instructors.

Per Washington state law, all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1972, must complete a hunter education course to buy a hunting license. A once-in-a-lifetime hunter education deferral is available for prospective hunters 10 and older who want to try hunting with an eligible licensed hunter before completing a hunter education course themselves. WDFW encourages potential applicants to check the deferral program requirements before applying.

To learn about hunter education and find an upcoming course near you, please visit the WDFW hunter education webpage.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.