Do I need to take a hunter safety course to hunt in Texas?

A Texas Hunter Education Certificate is required for anyone who hunts game within the state, born on or after September 2nd, 1971, including out-of-state hunters.

What is the minimum passing score?

You must obtain a minimum of 80% of the module quizzes in order to move on to the next module, and a minimum of 75% in order to successfully pass the final exam.

How old do you have to be to get certified in Texas?

For those aged 9 through 16 you must take the online course, pass the exam, and take a minimum 4-hour field-day course. For those aged 17 and over you must take the online course and pass the online exam (those born before September 2nd, 1971 are exempt).

How much does it cost to become a certified hunter in Texas?

The standard cost for a single hunter is $29.95. This includes the online course, exam, and your certification. For hunters under the age of 17, a field course is also required for certification. The cost of this course is $15.

Does getting my hunter safety certification mean I have a hunting license for Texas?

No. You will need to purchase an annual hunting license from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department once you complete your safety course. A hunting license is required of any person, regardless of age, who hunts any animal, bird, frog or turtle in this state (except furbearers, if the hunter possesses a trapper’s license).

Does the HUNTINGsmart! Course meet IHEA Standards?

Yes. The HUNTINGsmart! online hunter safety course complies with IHEA-USA standards and meets the mandated hunter safety requirements of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

What animals can I hunt in Texas?

The major game animals in Texas are white-tailed deer, mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, gray or cat squirrel, red or fox squirrel, collared peccary or javelina, and alligators.

What are the restrictions for hunting in Texas?

There are regulations and restrictions around game and non-game animals, public and private lands, seasonal and weaponry. Learn more about Texas hunting laws and regulations.

How do I replace a lost or damaged Hunter Education Course Completion Certificate?

If you need to replace a lost or damaged course completion certificate, log in to your course dashboard and print a new copy.

How do I replace a lost or damaged Hunter Education Certification Card?

If you need to replace a lost or damaged Hunter Education Certificate, visit http://tpwd.elementlms.com.

Who is HUNTINGsmart!?

HUNTINGsmart!® is a leading provider of online hunting education in North America and is approved by the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) and recognized by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Part of the Campfire Collective outdoor recreation learning platform, we’ve been delivering award winning online education courses since 2003 and have certified more than 700,000 outdoor enthusiasts. HUNTINGsmart! is accredited and approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to deliver the Official Texas Hunter Education Course.

Learn more about Texas Hunting Regulations, Fines and hunting destinations.

How long is the online hunter safety course?

It will take approximately 4 – 6 hours to complete the course (including module quizzes) and final exam.