How to Get Hunter Education Certified in Virginia

Virginia requires all first-time hunters to complete an approved hunter education course. The state offers online-only certification for ages 17 and older, while younger hunters must also attend an in-person field day. The course is approved by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and certified by IHEA-USA.

Certification Paths

• Ages 17+: Complete the entire course online. No in-person field day required. Your certificate is issued immediately upon passing.
• Ages 12 to 16: Complete the online course, then attend an in-person field day for hands-on skills evaluation and live-fire exercises.
• Under age 12: Cannot be independently certified. Must hunt under the supervision of a licensed, certified adult.

Age Requirements

The minimum age to enroll in Virginia hunter education is 12 years old. Children under 12 may hunt only when accompanied by a licensed, certified adult hunter as required by Virginia law.

Your Certificate Works Everywhere

Because the Virginia 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 Virginia

Virginia provides white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear, and waterfowl hunting across Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley, and coastal plain, consistently ranking among top eastern states for deer harvest.

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