If you were born on or after September 1, 1969, you must complete a Hunter Education Course approved by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) before hunting, unless you are under direct supervision of a qualified hunter. Hunter Education Certification earned by individuals 10 years of age and over are valid for life.

Who is a qualified hunter?

• A licensed Louisiana hunter born before Sept. 1, 1969
• Someone 18 years old and over with a valid, unrestricted Louisiana hunting license

What does direct supervision mean?

• Within audible voice range
• In direct line of sight at all times while hunting

Exemptions

• Louisiana accepts hunter education certifications from all other states.
• Active or veteran members of the U.S. Armed Forces or POST-certified law enforcement officers may qualify for a Louisiana-only hunter education exemption. 

To apply, complete the following steps:

• Download and complete the Exemption Form
• Submit via:
  • Email: HunterEducation@wlf.la.gov
  • Mail:
    • LDWF Education Program
      PO Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898
      Important: This exemption is valid only in Louisiana.

Course Options

To find out when the next Hunter Education/Safety course is in a parish, please visit LouisianaOutdoors.com/Events. Online courses can be found on Hunter-Ed.com or through the National Rifle Association (NRA). For more information, see HERE.