CDA Hunter Safety

CDA, the nonprofit California Deer Association, offers the state-approved Hunter Safety Program. The California Department of Fish and Game hosts hunter safety classes at many local CDA chapters and at other locations throughout the state.

Requirements

All first-time hunters in California must complete the hunter education course or pass an equivalency exam before being allowed to purchase a hunting license. Hunters who wish to participate in any hunting opportunity sponsored by the California Deer Association also must successfully complete the state course.

Topics

CDA's hunter education classes include instruction and education in firearms safety, sportsmanship, ethics, wildlife management, conservation, archery, black powder, wildlife identification, first aid and survival skills.

Courses

Hunter safety education can be taken in person, online or as a home-study course. Courses are also available specifically for bow hunters. The in-person course requires a minimum of 10 hours of instruction. The online and home-study courses require an in-person follow-up session lasting four hours to complete the program.

References

• California Deer Association: Hunter Safety Education
• California Department of Fish and Game: California Hunter Education Program
• California Hunter Education: Frequently Asked Questions