Hunter Education & Certification Course Requirements Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. If I have hunter education or bowhunter education certification from another state, do I have to take the Alaska hunter or bowhunter certification course too?
    No, all state, provincial, and some foreign countries' hunter or bowhunter education certifications are acceptable for meeting the requirements of Alaska regulations. Make sure you have a physical copy (card or on your phone) with you when hunting.
  2. I want to hunt out-of-state. Will my Alaska hunter education certification be recognized?
    Yes, all states and provinces requiring hunter education recognize your Alaska certification. You should carry your certification card with you as proof.
  3. Can I hunt without bowhunter education certification in "archery-only" or "bow & arrow only" hunts?
    No, everyone regardless of age, must have completed a bowhunter education certification course and carry the certification card in the field with them while hunting in a hunt or hunt area that is "archery-only" or "bow & arrow" only.
  4. I have a concealed carry permit or am active duty military, do I still need hunter education?
    Yes. If you plan to hunt in Alaska in an area which requires hunter education based on age (born after January 1, 1986), or in a specific area which requires hunter education regardless of your age (ex: military installments) then you need to complete a hunter education certification course.
  5. I am an experienced hunter with many years of hunting experience. Do I need hunter education?
    Yes. If you plan to hunt in Alaska in an area which requires hunter education based on age (born after January 1, 1986), or in a specific area which requires hunter education regardless of your age (ex: military installments) then you need to complete a hunter education certification course.
  6. Do I need to have my bowhunter/muzzleloader/crossbow certification before applying for draw tags for a weapons-restricted hunt?
    Yes. You will be asked for your certification number when filling out the application form.
  7. I lost my certification card, how do I get a replacement?
    Click on this link to fill out an online request form.
  8. Can my child apply for a Youth-Only Permit Draw Hunt before taking hunter education?
    Yes. The youth hunter will need to complete the hunter education certification prior to participating in the "youth hunt".
  9. I want to participate in a "shotgun only" hunt. What certification course do I need to complete?
    Hunter education
  10. Do I need hunter education to purchase an Alaska hunting license?
    No. Just make sure to check the regulations for the area you plan to hunt to determine if you need to complete hunter education or another certification course to satisfy age or hunt-area specific requirements.
  11. Do I need hunter education to apply for permits?
    No. Just make sure to check the regulations for the area you plan to hunt to determine if you need to complete hunter education or another certification course to satisfy age or hunt-area specific requirements.
  12. Do I need bowhunter education if I already took hunter education?
    Yes. Hunter education focuses on firearm safety and bowhunter education is geared towards hunting in Alaska with a bow and arrow.
  13. How old do you need to be to take hunter education?
    There is no minimum age requirement to enroll in a hunter education course in Alaska, but students 10 or older are more likely to be successful. Students must be mature enough to understand the information presented, pass the written test, and safely participate in the live fire proficiency shoot. Younger children with less upper body strength may also have a problem handling a firearm. A parent or guardian may be required to attend with a child, depending on the instructor's preference.
  14. What does it cost to take hunter education?
    • $19.95 hunter education course
    • $30 bowhunter education course
    • $30.00 crossbow education course
    • $34.50 muzzleloader education course
  15. When and where are certification courses held?
    Class dates in larger Alaska cities are posted early each year and can be found at http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=huntered.schedules. In smaller communities, certification courses are scheduled throughout the year based on community need and public requests. For more information, contact (907) 267-2373.
  16. Do I need to bring a firearm or ammunition to the hunter education class?
    No. The .22 rifle and ammunition are provided by ADF&G.
  17. What if no certification classes are currently available in my community?
    Class dates in larger Alaska cities are posted early each year. In smaller communities, certification courses are scheduled throughout the year based on community need and public requests. For more information, contact (907) 267-2373. http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=huntered.schedules.
  18. Do I have to wear hunter/blaze orange in Alaska while hunting?
    No, however wearing hunter orange has been shown as the most effective action a hunter can take to reduce visibility-related hunting incidents. If you're hunting in an area with other hunters, play it safe and wear at least an orange hat to let other hunters know you're in the area. Here is a helpful video that shows the importance of wearing hunter/blaze orange https://player.vimeo.com/video/47113670
  19. Is this course only for hunters?
    No. Hunter education is not just for hunters. This class is a valuable program for anyone who enjoys the outdoors, may spend time around firearms, and has an interest in conservation.
  20. Who teaches the certification courses?
    The certification courses are taught by Alaska certified volunteer hunter education instructors and ADF&G employees.
  21. How do I become a volunteer hunter education instructor?
    ADF&G is always interested in recruiting new volunteer instructors. If you are enthusiastic and are committed to helping make safe hunters and passing on our hunting heritage, please visit this website for more information. http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=huntered.volunteering
  22. I don't know my Field Day Qualifier Number, where can I find it?
    After completion of the online-portion of a certification course, you will receive an email with a Field Day Qualifier Number to use to attend the in-person field day. If you did not receive an email, check your junk/spam folder. If you still can't find the email, call the online course provider (Kalkomey) at 1-800-830-2268.
  23. I attended and completed a certification course, when will I receive my card in the mail?
    You will receive your certification card 2-3 weeks after the course by mail. The temporary certificate that you received from the instructors at the class is valid for proof of certification.
  24. Do I need to carry my certification card with me while hunting?
    Yes, you need to have your certification card or an electronic copy when hunting as you may be asked to provide proof of completion by law enforcement in the field.