Hunting in Georgia: Four Things to Know Before Applying for a Hunting Permit for Your Kids

If it's time to introduce your kids to the sport of hunting, there are a few things you need to know first. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division, there are different requirements for different ages.

1. Rules for All
Some rules apply to minors of all ages, however. Residents and nonresidents born on or after January 1, 1961, must successfully complete a hunter education course prior to purchasing a season hunting license. However, a hunter education course is not required to purchase an apprentice license or a three-day combo hunting/fishing license. Hunter education courses certified or mandated by any state wildlife agency or Canadian province are accepted. If you're hunting on your own land, or your parent's or guardian's land, hunter education is not required. Course options include a free classroom course, a free CD-ROM course or three online courses with varying fees. You can request a copy of the free CD-ROM from any game management or law enforcement office.

2. Rules for Hunters Age 12 or Less
It is unlawful for an adult to permit their child or ward less than the age of 12 to hunt unsupervised. Special restrictions apply to Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) and National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs). Hunters age 12 or less are not required to complete a hunter education course, but no one under age 12 may hunt unless under direct supervision of a licensed hunter who is at least 18 years old. Special restrictions apply to WMAs and NWRs.

3. Hunters Age 12 to 15
It is unlawful for an adult to permit their child or ward between the ages of 12 and 15 to hunt without adult supervision unless the child possesses a hunter education certificate while hunting. There are other special rules for WMAs, according to eRegulations. Hunters in this age group must complete a hunter education course prior to hunting unless under direct supervision of a licensed adult hunter.
http://www.eregulations.com/georgia/hunting/

4. Hunters Age 16 to 25
Hunters in this age group must present a hunter education certificate when purchasing a season hunting license and must possess the certificate while hunting.

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