Bowhunting Licenses and Hunter Education: How to Get Started Legally
Every state regulates hunting, and the rules for bowhunters differ from state to state. The general path to hunting legally looks similar almost everywhere, though. Always confirm the details with your state's wildlife agency before you go.
1. Hunter education
Most states require a hunter education course for new hunters, especially those born after a certain date. Courses cover safety, ethics, laws and wildlife identification, and many are offered online with an in-person field day.
Some states also require, or strongly encourage, a separate bowhunter education course covering shot placement, blood trailing and tree stand safety. Even where it is optional, it is worth taking.
2. Buy the right license
You will usually need a base hunting license, and often an archery license, permit or stamp on top. Residents pay less than non-residents. Licenses can usually be bought online, at sporting goods stores or at agency offices.
3. Get tags for the animals you hunt
Big game like deer, elk and turkey usually require tags or permits, which may be limited or awarded by lottery in some areas. Know how and when to report your harvest.
4. Learn the season and area rules
- Archery seasons often open earlier and run longer than firearm seasons.
- Rules may set minimum draw weights, broadhead requirements, legal shooting hours and where you can hunt.
- Public land often has its own rules; private land requires the owner's permission.
5. Practice before the season
Ethical bowhunting depends on consistent accuracy at your hunting distance. Practice from realistic positions, including from a tree stand if you will use one. See how to improve your archery accuracy, tree stand safety for bowhunters and how to choose broadheads.
An archery pro shop can set up your bow for hunting and point you to local courses. See intro to bowhunting.
Find bowhunting shops and ranges near you.
Hunting laws change every year. Check your state wildlife agency's current regulations before hunting.