Hunter Education course or field day registration

 In Oregon, a Hunter Education course is required for all new hunters age 17 and younger unless hunting on land owned by a parent or legal guardian, or unless participating in the Mentored Youth Hunter Program.

This course provides a thorough introduction to the skills hunters need, such as firearm safety, hunter ethics, wildlife identification and hunt preparation.

We also recommend Hunter Education for any adult new to hunting, or as a refresher for experienced hunters. Some nearby states also require every hunter in their state to have completed Hunter Education.

ODFW offers courses in three formats aimed at different learning styles:

• Conventional classroom setting includes 14-16 hours of classroom instruction and a field day with a live fire exercise and hands on evaluation of safe firearms handling. The course costs $10 per student. Click here for a list of upcoming classes.
• Online through one of four approved courses. Each course takes about six hours and the cost varies depending on the course provider. In addition to the online course, youth also are required to take a field day. Click here for list of online course providers, or here to register for a field day. Click here for a list of upcoming field days. Adults are not required to attend a field day. Adults will receive certification upon completion of the adult online course.
• Self-directed workbook study is free and takes about six hours, in addition to the required field day (Link to registration) for youth. To request a workbook, email us at ODFW.Info@state.or.us. Please include the number of workbooks you need and the name(s) and address(es) you would like them mailed to.

How to register for an ODFW course, workshop or event

Upcoming Hunter Education Classes and Field Days

There is no minimum age to take a course, but children under age 11 often have a difficult time with the material. Younger students may also lack the upper body strength necessary to handle a firearm safely and control the muzzle during loading and unloading drills.

Please note that youth may apply for a controlled hunt before they complete hunter education, but must pass hunter education before actually hunting on their own tag or validation.

ODFW does not refund class fees, which are used for program equipment and supplies

Remember that you cannot register for an ODFW activity without an online account.

Assurances

The Oregon Outdoor Skills Program is subject to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Title IX of the Education Amendments 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and offers all persons the opportunity to participate in programs and activities regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability. No individual will be turned away from or otherwise be denied access to or benefit from, any program or activity on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability. Complaints of discrimination should be sent to: Chief, Public Civil Rights Division, Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240.

Header photo by Jason Bader