Missouri Department of Conservation

Learn to Hunt

Get started hunting with hunter education. It's required in Missouri, and it qualifies you to buy a firearms hunting permit. Our Discover Hunting workshops teach better shooting and hunting skills. Use this minisite to find hunter education opportunities near you and online.

Hunting Permits

Once you have your hunter education certificate, you can buy a permit to hunt for deer, turkey, waterfowl, furbearers or small game. You can purchase your permits online, over the phone, at any Department of Conservation office or from more than 1,000 vendors around the state.

Hunters with physical disabilities may apply for a hunting method exemption.

Wildlife Code

Before going into the field, you will need to be familiar with the Missouri Wildlife Code, which outlines all the regulations for hunting, trapping and fishing in Missouri. These regulations change every year, and MDC publishes summaries of the regulations for deer and turkey, waterfowl and migratory birds prior to each season. A summary of all the changes is also published in the Missouri Conservationist magazine every February.

Discover Hunting

Discover Hunting programs are for new hunters of all ages. Find one near you.

Hunter Education

Missouri's Hunter Education Program provides a foundation in hunting safety and ethics. It is required for any hunter born after 1966. Learn more about Missouri's mandatory and recommended hunter education classes.

Hunter Ethics and Safety

According to the National Safety Council, hunting is a safe activity. In fact, hunting results in fewer injuries per 100,000 participants than do many other sports, including cycling, bowling, golf and tennis. However, as with any activity, you must always use good judgment and take responsibility for your actions.