The new change allows new hunters to take online course only to purchase hunting licenses in Idaho
The following is an important press release from Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
In response to updated COVID-19 guidance from Idaho Department of Health and Welfare for public events, Idaho Fish and Game has temporarily waived the requirement to attend an in-person field day for online hunter education certification.
The temporary waiver allows students who complete the online course the ability to gain certification and purchase a hunting license. The cost of the online course is $24.50 and can be taken at https://www.hunter-ed.com/idaho/. Classes are available to anyone 9 years or older.
According to Idaho Fish and Game’s Hunter Education Manager Brenda Beckley, “The public safety of our instructors, staff, and students are our primary concerns. We have seen an increased interest in our hunter education classes, and want to maintain a path for the public to gain certification. By temporarily waiving the in-person field day, we can follow health recommendation for social distancing while still providing necessary instruction and certification.”
While many states across the nation have allowed for online certification, Idaho has maintained an in-person requirement to review Idaho-specific topics such as local regulations, animal identification, and gun safety.
Beckley recognizes the value of the online classes, and goes on to emphasize, “While we recognize the value of the firearm safety information provided in the online course, we are encouraging students to seek out a mentor to reinforce safe firearm handling, and hunting safety.”
