How to Get Hunter Education Certified in Maine

Maine requires all first-time hunters to complete an approved hunter education course. The state offers online-only certification for ages 16 and older, while younger hunters must also attend an in-person field day. The course is approved by Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (DIFW) and certified by IHEA-USA.

Certification Paths

• Ages 16+: Complete the entire course online. No in-person field day required. Your certificate is issued immediately upon passing.
• Ages 10 to 15: Complete the online course, then attend an in-person field day for hands-on skills evaluation and live-fire exercises.
• Under age 10: Cannot be independently certified. Must hunt under the supervision of a licensed, certified adult.

Students ages 10-15 must attend a Skills & Exam session after completing the online course. Ages 16+ can complete the course entirely online.

Age Requirements

The minimum age to enroll in Maine hunter education is 10 years old. Children under 10 may hunt only when accompanied by a licensed, certified adult hunter as required by Maine law.

Your Certificate Works Everywhere

Because the Maine course is IHEA-approved, your certificate is recognized in all other U.S. states and Canadian provinces through reciprocity. Get certified once and hunt anywhere.

Hunting in Maine

Maine offers outstanding moose hunting through a lottery system, along with white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, and upland bird hunting in a true wilderness setting.

Ready to start? Visit the Maine hunter education page to find your DIFW-approved course and begin certification today.