Virginia Gun Owners Forum - VGOF

I have signed up for the Hunter Safety Course offered by the King George County Parks and Rec. I figure whether it's required or not, I stand to benefit from the experience. I would like to know, though, is it required in order for me to get a hunting license and deer tags?

It is if you're planning to hunt specific areas like a federal installation (AP Hill for example). Each area has its own rules. Those 12 and under are exempt I think.

It's not required to hunt private property, state property or national forest land if you are over 18 and "certify" that you have had the course or held a license in the past- you don't have to show the certificate to get the license. You should be able to buy the license online now. Military installations usually require you to take their course regardless of whether you've had the state course.

Quick safety course- know what you're shooting at and what's behind it before pulling the trigger

Go by Wal mart and get a copy of the hunting regs. Under age of 12 no hunter safety required but over the age 12 if you have never had a hunting license you need to take the course. There are some exceptions so I recommend checking into a little deeper. www.huntfishva.com

I hunt some on the military posts. In addition to a Va. State hunting license and hunter safety course, they will require a Va State Police background Investigation, registration on post of firearms you plan to use including archery, and registration of vehicle. You do need to take a post class which usually consists of around a 20 minute video in order to purchase a post hunting permit. Further training videos and test required if you want to hunt restricted areas.
I'm not sure about Ft Pickett's standard since they are controlled by the state. Check the military installation websites for their individual instructions. Ft Belvoir is archery only and has/had an extended deer season well beyond the normal state season (depredation hunts). You have to qualify with archery equipment there. If I recall, broadheads at 20 then 30 yards, 2 out of 3 arrows in an 8" target.

Sorry for the long post.