Hunting in Alberta is subject to a comprehensive set of regulations designed to ensure both hunter safety and wildlife conservation.
One key aspect of these regulations is the Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education course.
The information provided here is based on the 2023 Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations. Always keep up to date with the latest information, and check with local authorities about things you are more sure of or grey areas.
While a hunting course is never a bad idea no matter who you are, let’s talk about if this course is legally mandatory in Alberta?
Do you have to take the hunting safety course to hunt in Alberta?
The Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education course is mandatory for new first-time hunters and for individuals whose hunting licenses have been suspended due to a conviction (Page 16, 17 of the Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations).
Source: The Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations (You can open it up and follow along using the page references below)
So in other words, it depends. It is mostly mandatory for inexperienced hunters and people looking to get a suspended license reinstated, and not for others.
Here is a simple chart to help you determine if the hunting safety course is required for you:
Do You Need Hunter’s Education to Hunt in Alberta?
| Criteria | Do You Need to Take the Course? |
|---|---|
| New First-Time Hunter | Yes (Page 16) |
| License Suspended Due to Conviction | Yes (Page 17) |
| Non-Resident or Non-Resident Alien Hunter | No, if accompanied by Hunter Host or Designated Guide |
| Others | No |
What is the Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education Course?
The Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education course is a structured program aimed at promoting responsible hunting practices, outdoor safety, and wildlife conservation.
Alberta Hunter Safety Course Outline
- Module 1 – Role of the Hunter
- Module 2 – Hunting Ethics
- Module 3 – Wildlife Management & Conservation
- Module 4 – Wildlife Identification
- Module 5 – Clothing & Equipment
- Module 6 – Firearms
- Module 7 – Bow Hunting
- Module 8 – Survival
- Module 9 – Field Techniques
- Module 10 – First Aid
- Module 11 – Hypothermia
- Module 12 – Legal Responsibilities Final Exam
Successful completion grants a hunter certificate number, which is a prerequisite for purchasing a hunting license in Alberta (Page 16).
You will need to successfully pass the course before going to the next step, which is the W.I.N card. , which is needed to apply for hunting and fishing licenses.
When is Hunter’s Education Mandatory?
- First-Time Hunters: The course is compulsory for all new first-time hunters. These individuals are required to provide their hunter certificate number when purchasing a hunting license (Page 16).
- License Suspension: If a person’s right to hold a recreational hunting license has been suspended due to a conviction, they must complete the course after the beginning of the suspension period (Page 17).
Exemptions and Special Cases
- Non-Resident and Non-Resident Alien Hunters: These categories of hunters are exempt from the first-time hunter eligibility requirement if they are accompanied by a Hunter Host or a Designated Guide. This exemption is also outlined in the regulations but not specifically tied to the Hunter Education course.
How to Enrol in the Course
To enrol in the Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education course, individuals can contact the Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association, or visit the site for more details.
The association is reachable toll-free in Alberta at (page 16):
Toll-free in Alberta: 1-866-852-4342
Edmonton: 780-466-6682
Calgary: 403-252-8474
How Old can you be to hunt in Alberta?
Age Requirements for Hunting in Alberta
- Youth First-Time Hunters: Must be at least 12 years old to hunt under any hunting license in Alberta. For game birds, the minimum age is 10. (Page 16)
- Hunters Under 16: Must have written permission from a parent or guardian to purchase hunting licenses. (Page 16)
- Hunters Under 18: To hunt with a firearm, must be accompanied by a parent, a legal guardian, or a person 18 years or older who has written permission from the parent or legal guardian. (Page 16)
- Youth Waterfowl Hunting: Youth aged 10-17 may apply online for a FREE migratory game bird hunting permit. They must be accompanied by a permitted adult. (Pages 60,61)
- Youth/Senior White-Tailed Deer Licence: This license is valid for resident hunters who are 12-17 and 65 years of age and over. (Page 66)
- Youth Mule Deer Licence: Available for resident hunters who are 12-17 years of age. (Page 66)
In Summary
- The Alberta Conservation and Hunter Education course is mandatory for new first-time hunters and those with a suspended license due to a conviction, as stated on Page 16 and 17 of the 2023 Alberta Hunting Regulations.
- Exemptions are available for non-resident and non-resident alien hunters if they are accompanied by a Hunter Host or Designated Guide.
- Enrolment can be done through the Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association, as mentioned on Page 16.
