Alabama law requires those born on or after August 1, 1977, to successfully complete an approved hunter education course before they can purchase a hunting license. With Alabama’s hunting season just a short time away, those who need to complete a hunter education class have several options available. Hunter education courses are offered in a traditional classroom setting at various sites throughout the state. The course is also available on an interactive CD-ROM and over the Internet at www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/education. After completing the CD-ROM or Internet course, participants must attend a field day to receive their hunter education certification.

In addition to providing a foundation for novice hunters, the course is an excellent refresher for experienced hunters and is accepted in all other states and Canadian provinces where hunter education is mandatory before hunting license purchases. The course involves training in hunter ethics, state wildlife and hunting laws, firearms handling and safety, muzzleloading, archery, wildlife identification and management, outdoor survival skills and first aid.

Hunter education courses are scheduled in all 67 counties throughout Alabama. A complete list of traditional hunter education courses, CD-ROM/Internet course field days, and registration information is available online at www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/education. For more information on hunter education in Alabama, call 1-800-245-2740.

Hunter education CD-ROMs are available at each County Extension System Office and the following Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries offices: