Age Requirements for Hunter Education in Texas
Who Must Complete Hunter Education in Texas?
Every hunter (including out-of-state hunters) born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, must successfully complete a Hunter Education Course. Proof of certification or deferral is required to be on your person while hunting, either printed or electronically.
Minimum age of certification is 9 years.
Persons 17 years of age and older have the option of taking the course online.
Age Requirements in Texas
If you were born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, and you are:
- Under 9 years of age: You must be accompanied. Accompanied means: By a person (resident or non-resident) who is at least 17, who is licensed to hunt in Texas, who has passed hunter education or is exempt (born before Sept. 2, 1971), and you must be within normal voice control.
- Age 9 through 16: You must successfully complete a hunter education course or be accompanied.
- Age 17 and over: You must successfully complete a hunter education course; or purchase a "Hunter Education Deferral" and be accompanied.
What is the youngest age to get a hunting license in Texas?
There is no minimum age requirement for purchasing a hunting license if the applicant can show proof of hunter education. However, hunter education instructors ask that students be at least 9 years of age.
What is Texas Youth Hunting Program?
The Texas Wildlife Association and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department have joined forces to offer the Texas Youth Hunting Program (TYHP).
TYHP was established in 1996 to provide opportunities for youth to participate in hunting activities safely, legally, and ethically, while learning about the valuable role landowners and hunters play in wildlife conservation.
We sponsor introductory, instructive hunts for deer, turkey, hogs, javelina, exotics, dove, small game, waterfowl, varmints and other species. Normally, we provide mentors, lodging and meals. TYHP offers more than 200 hunts each year, mostly on private properties to which owners donate access. We offer both firearm and archery hunts.
To participate in the Texas Youth Hunting Program, you must:
- Be 9 to 17 years old
- Have a valid Texas hunting license and appropriate tags or stamps when required.
- Complete Hunter Education Course for Texas
