Agencies
Services
Trapper Education
Requirements
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, is required to complete trapper education certification (certificate of competency) before purchasing a trapping license (520 ILCS 5/3.3).
Exemptions apply, see Youth Trapping License (520 ILCS 5/3.1-9) for more information.
Course Options
Illinois offers instructor-led and online trapper education courses. Learn more about course options and register by course type below.
COURSE INFORMATION
Instructor-led trapper education courses are taught in-person with certified volunteer trapper education instructors. Students will learn the trapper education curriculum through lectures, demonstrations, group discussions and practical exercises. Most courses include a visit from an Illinois Conservation Police Officer to discuss Illinois trapping regulations. Students passing the 50-question multiple choice test (80% passing score) and displaying the necessary maturity to trap independently will receive an Illinois trapper education certificate.
COURSE LENGTH
8-plus hours, typically taught over 1 day (varies by instructor). Students must attend the entire course to be eligible for certification.
AGE REQUIREMENTS
None. The course curriculum and test are written at a 6th-grade reading level. Youth under the age of 10 must be accompanied to and during the course by a parent/guardian at least 16 years old.
COST
Free
REGISTRATION
Registration is required unless otherwise noted. Click "Register Now" to view and register for a "Trapping" class.
COURSE INFORMATION
Students complete an approved online trapper education course and earn trapper education certification entirely online. The online course requires students to complete online units, quizzes, and a test. Upon successful completion of the online course and test, the student will receive an Illinois trapper education certificate.
COURSE LENGTH
The online course length varies by student but is typically completed in 4-6 hours at the students pace (progress is saved so it can be completed over multiple days).
AGE REQUIREMENTS
None. The course curriculum and test are written at a 6th-grade reading level.
COST
Free
REGISTRATION
Click "Register Now" to create an account and begin the online course.
Trapper Education Certificates
Trapper education certificates are valid for life. Those required by law to have a trapper education certificate must present their trapper education certification card to law enforcement upon request. Electronic display of a trapper education certification card is accepted by Illinois Conservation Police Officers.
If your Illinois trapper education certification card was lost or destroyed, you can search for your record and replace it online. Click on the button below that corresponds with how you completed the class.
Additional Resources
Contact your regional Volunteer Services Coordinator if you have questions about trapper education or if you are interested in becoming a certified volunteer instructor.