Want to hunt in Canada? Learn exactly how to get a hunting and firearms license in Canada with this complete beginner-friendly guide.

If you’re eager to explore Canada’s vast wilderness and enjoy the thrill of hunting, it’s important to start with the right legal foundation. Before you can legally hunt in Canada, you’ll need two key documents: a hunting license and a firearms license (if you plan to use a gun). In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get a hunting and firearms license in Canada, step by step.

Why You Need a Hunting and Firearms License in Canada

Canada takes wildlife conservation and public safety seriously. That’s why anyone planning to hunt needs to be licensed — both to use a firearm and to hunt specific game species. These licenses ensure hunters are properly educated, trained, and aware of safety and environmental regulations.

Step 1: Take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC)

To get your firearms license, officially known as a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL), you must complete the Canadian Firearms Safety Course.

What to Expect:

  • The course covers safe handling, storage, and transportation of firearms.
  • It usually takes 8-10 hours and ends with a written and practical test.

You can find a course near you by checking the RCMP Firearms Program website.

Step 2: Apply for Your Possession and Acquisition License (PAL)

Once you pass the CFSC, you can apply for your PAL.

How to apply:

  1. Download the PAL application from the RCMP website.
  2. Submit your course results, application form, photo ID, and processing fee.
  3. Expect a 45–90 day processing time.

With a PAL, you can legally buy and use non-restricted firearms (like most hunting rifles and shotguns).

Step 3: Take a Hunter Education Course

Each province and territory requires hunters to complete a Hunter Education Program before applying for a hunting license.

Example by Province:

  • Ontario: Complete the Ontario Hunter Education Course (often bundled with the CFSC).
  • British Columbia: Take the CORE Program (Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Education).
  • Alberta: Complete the Alberta Hunter Education Course online.

These courses teach:

  • Wildlife identification
  • Hunting laws and ethics
  • Safety procedures
  • Conservation principles

Step 4: Apply for Your Hunting License

Once you’ve completed the education course, you can apply for your hunting license through your provincial or territorial government.

You’ll need:

  • Proof of course completion
  • PAL (if using a firearm)
  • Government-issued ID
  • Payment for the license

You can often buy your license online, in person at authorized vendors, or through hunting/fishing stores.

🔎 Pro Tip: Hunting regulations and license types vary by species, season, and location, so always check your local hunting regulations before heading out.

Step 5: Purchase Tags and Permits

In addition to a hunting license, you may need:

  • Species-specific tags (e.g., deer, moose, bear)
  • Wildlife management unit (WMU) permits
  • Migratory bird permits (from the federal government)

These are usually available through the same portal where you get your hunting license.

Summary: How to Get a Hunting and Firearms License in Canada

Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track:

✅ Take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course
✅ Apply for your PAL (firearms license)
✅ Complete the Hunter Education Course
✅ Apply for your Hunting License through your province
✅ Buy tags and permits for the game you plan to hunt