Agencies
Services
Bowhunter Education
Requirements
Bowhunter education certification is not required in Illinois. Those hunting with a bow or crossbow must meet hunter safety education requirements.
A separate bowhunter education certification is required in some states and provinces to comply with the bowhunting laws and regulations in those jurisdictions (see below).
Always check local laws as regulations may change, or special regulations may exist in some areas.
The National Bowhunter Education Foundation course meets all the requirements for those states, provinces, countries, or special circumstances requiring proof of taking a bowhunter education course.
- Alaska
- Connecticut
- Idaho
- Maine
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Brunswick
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- Nova Scotia
- Quebec
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
Course Options
Illinois offers instructor-led courses through the National Bowhunter Education Foundation and an online bowhunter education course. Learn more about course options and register by course type below.
COURSE INFORMATION
Instructor-led bowhunter education courses are taught in-person with National Bowhunter Education Foundation certified bowhunter education instructors.
Contact National Bowhunter Education Foundation state coordinator Jim McFarlane for course information and availability.
COURSE INFORMATION
Students complete the National Bowhunter Education Foundation online bowhunter education course and earn bowhunter education certification entirely online. The online course requires students to complete online units, quizzes, and a test. Upon successful completion of the online course and test, the student will receive a National Bowhunter Education Foundation bowhunter education certificate.
COURSE LENGTH
The online course length varies by student and course type but is typically completed in 4-6 hours at the students pace (progress is saved so it can be completed over multiple days).
AGE REQUIREMENTS
None. The course curriculum and test are written at a 6th-grade reading level. You must be an Illinois resident to take this course.
COST
$30.00
REGISTRATION
Click "Register Now" to create an account and begin the online course.
Contact the National Bowhunter Education Foundation if you have questions about bowhunter education or if you are interested in becoming a certified bowhunter education instructor.