SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Become a Hunter Education Instructor
Help the next generation of Texas hunters develop the knowledge, skills, and responsibility to hunt safely.
THE POWER OF VOLUNTEER SERVICE
One Instructor Can Make a Lasting Difference
Every year, volunteer hunter education instructors help Texans learn the fundamentals of firearm safety, wildlife conservation, hunting laws, and ethical decision-making.
Their work goes beyond the classroom. By sharing experience, demonstrating responsible practices, and encouraging respect for wildlife and fellow hunters, instructors help build a safer hunting community.
Whether you are an experienced hunter, an educator, or someone who enjoys helping others learn, becoming an instructor offers an opportunity to contribute to an important Texas tradition.
YOUR PATH TO CERTIFICATION
How to Become an Instructor
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department administers the instructor certification process. These steps provide a general overview; follow TPWD’s current instructions for the official application and training requirements.
STEP 01
Complete Hunter Education Certification
Begin by completing a recognized hunter education course if you have not already earned your certification.
STEP 02
Review Instructor Eligibility and Apply
Review TPWD’s instructor eligibility criteria and submit the required application and supporting information.
STEP 03
Complete the Required Interview and Screening
Follow the TPWD application process, including the required game warden interview and any applicable screening or approval requirements.
STEP 04
Attend Instructor Training
Complete TPWD-approved instructor training to learn about course delivery, program expectations, and working with hunter education students.
STEP 05
Begin Serving as an Instructor
Once TPWD approves your certification, begin participating in hunter education activities and helping students develop safe and responsible hunting practices.
BEFORE YOU APPLY
Instructor Eligibility
Prospective instructors should be committed to hunter safety, ethical hunting, wildlife conservation, and working with students of different ages and experience levels.
Certified Instructors
TPWD’s standard instructor pathway generally requires applicants to be at least 21 years old and satisfy the department’s certification requirements.
Assistant Instructors
TPWD provides an assistant instructor pathway for eligible individuals ages 15–20 who want to help teach and gain experience.
Eligibility, screening, training, and certification procedures are determined by TPWD and may change. Confirm all current requirements directly with the department.
WHY VOLUNTEER?
More Than Teaching a Course
Volunteer instructors play an important role in introducing new hunters to the outdoors and reinforcing responsible practices among experienced hunters.
Share Your Experience
Pass along the knowledge and lessons you have gained through your own outdoor experiences.
Build Confidence
Help students develop the skills and judgment to make safer decisions.
Support Conservation
Encourage respect for wildlife, habitat, and responsible use of natural resources.
THEIA IS HERE TO SUPPORT YOU
Your Connection to Fellow Instructors
Becoming a TPWD-certified instructor is the beginning of an opportunity to serve. THEIA helps bring together instructors who share a commitment to education, safety, and volunteer service.
Through membership, association activities, and connections with other volunteers, THEIA provides a community for those who want to support hunter education across Texas.
READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
The Next Generation Needs Instructors Like You
Take the first step toward becoming a volunteer hunter education instructor and helping Texans learn to hunt safely and responsibly.