Certified Hunter Program

The Certified Hunter Program is designed to help Pennsylvania landowners, particularly farmers, who are dealing with significant crop damage caused by deer and other wildlife. This program connects landowners with certified hunters trained to manage deer populations effectively. By removing common barriers, the program allows landowners to address crop damage in a safe and efficient manner while maintaining control over who accesses their property. All participating hunters are thoroughly trained in ethics, safety, responsibility, and hunting effectiveness. This initiative promotes sustainable wildlife management, benefiting both landowners and hunters while safeguarding crops throughout Pennsylvania.

Selection Process:

*Update April 11, 2026*

The Pennsylvania Game Commission Board of Commissioners approved final regulations to expand the Certified Hunter Program statewide. If you are interested in participating, please complete the application using the link below. We anticipate strong interest as the program continues to grow, and applications will be reviewed in the order they are received.

Application Process

1. Submit Your Application
   Complete and submit the online application form.
2. Application Review
   Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive an email with a link to complete the online exam.
3. Online Exam
   After you complete the exam, it will be submitted for grading.
4. Shooting Qualification
   Applicants who pass the exam will receive a link to register for a shooting qualification.
   Two shooting qualification events will be held in each region of the state during the summer months.

We appreciate your interest in the Certified Hunter Program and look forward to working with you as the program expands statewide. If you have any questions about the process, please email PGCCHP@pa.gov. 

Participation in the Certified Hunter Program is conducted entirely through a digital platform. Applicants must have reliable access to a smartphone or internet-enabled device and be comfortable using it to complete all program requirements, including communication, scheduling, and reporting. Individuals without this access or proficiency may find it difficult to fully participate.

As part of the Certified Hunter Program, all applicants are required to complete a written examination designed to assess knowledge in key areas essential to responsible and ethical hunting.

Exam Topics Include:

• Landowner Relations – Understanding the importance of communication, permission, and respectful interaction with private landowners.

• Hunting Ethics – Emphasizing fair chase principles, wildlife conservation, and responsible behavior in the field.

• Hunting Effectiveness – Covering safe and efficient hunting practices, wildlife identification, and marksmanship fundamentals.

A study guide will be provided to all participants upon acceptance into the program, ensuring each candidate has the tools needed to prepare effectively.

This exam is a critical step in fostering knowledgeable, ethical, and respectful hunters who uphold the values of the Certified Hunter Program.

Rifle: Shooters will fire five shots at a 6-inch circle from 100 yards. To successfully qualify, participants must place at least four out of five shots within the circle.

Please Note: Hunters who qualify with a rifle are also eligible to use a shotgun with slugs.

Bow/Crossbow: Shooters will fire 5 shots at a 6-inch circle target at 30 yards.  To successfully qualify, participants must place at least four out of five shots in the circle.

You may use a shooting aid to steady your shot (e.g., bipod, tripod, single sand bag, etc). However, multiple sandbags and shooting vises are not permitted. Your setup must reflect a realistic field shooting position. Unless using a gripped tripod (such as a Bog Pod DeathGrip), the firearm must not remain fully supported on its own—you must maintain at least one point of direct physical contact with the weapon at all times. 

You must bring your own weapon, ammo, and shooting aid. Archery participants must use field points only.