Virginia Hunter Safety Course Requirements

Hunter education rules before you start the Virginia practice test.

Virginia hunters generally need hunter safety certification before hunting. Here is what to know before you take the Virginia practice test.

Minimum age / certification
Required since 1981 for hunters age 12-15 and any first-time license holder; hunters under 12 are exempt.
Blaze orange
Since 1988, fluorescent orange visible 360 degrees (hat or upper-body garment) has been required for most firearms seasons; fluorescent pink has been an accepted alternative since 2017.
License year
Most licenses are valid for one year from purchase, except bear/deer-turkey licenses and the migratory bird stamp (valid July 1 - June 30), apprentice licenses (2 years), and lifetime licenses.

Official regulations are set by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Always confirm current rules there before hunting.

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Start the Virginia practice test