How to Become an Arkansas Game Warden

Arkansas game wardens or “Wildlife Officers” work for the Enforcement Division of the Game and Fish Commission. They are highly trained officers of the law with full police jurisdiction. They are responsible for ensuring all Game and Fish Commission, state, and federal laws are followed as well as promoting nature conservation. They also teach classes to the public on boating and hunting safety. Here are the guidelines for becoming a game warden in the state of Arkansas.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Become a United States citizen. Only United States citizens are eligible to apply for the position of Arkansas game warden.

2. Wait until you are twenty-one. You must be at least twenty-one years of age.

3. Finish high school. You need a high school education plus any combination of college and/or law enforcement experience totaling four years.

4. Learn to drive. You must have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record.

5. Stay out of legal trouble. You will not be allowed to become an Arkansas Wildlife Officer if you have any prior felony convictions.

6. Take care of your health. You will need to pass evaluations of your physical and mental condition including vision and hearing exams.

7. Learn to swim. You have to know how to swim in order to become an Arkansas game warden.

8. Pass an extensive background check. It is a requirement.

9. Be willing to relocate. Arkansas Wildlife Officers must be available to take a position located anywhere across the state.

10. Complete the training. Potential game wardens must complete the Commission’s twenty week enforcement training course.

11. Get ready to work varied hours including weekends and holidays. Arkansas Wildlife Officers are required to work weekends.

Resources

• Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

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