TWRA Apprentice Permit

TWRA Apprentice Permits are available for persons who want to go hunting and see if they like it before they take a hunter education course.

Persons born on or after January 1, 1969, who have not completed a hunter education course must carry a TWRA Apprentice Permit while hunting.

• The permit is for persons at least 10 years of age and is available only once during a person’s lifetime.
• The permit is valid: 
  • For one year from the date of purchase and...
  • For hunting in Tennessee only.
• The person also must possess the required licenses and permits for the type of game they are hunting.
• Any person carrying an Apprentice Permit must be accompanied by a person who: 
  • Is at least 21 years of age and...
  • Has a hunter safety education certificate or is not required to have a certificate (born before 1969) and...
  • Stays in position that lets him or her take immediate control of the firearm or bow.