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Attention hunters: Visit our FAQ page for information about the use of centerfire, single-shot rifles for deer hunting in Illinois. 

Governor JB Pritzker Illinois.gov Contact IDNR DNR A to Z

Apprentice License

The purpose of the Apprentice License Program is to extend limited hunting privileges, in lieu of obtaining a valid hunting license, to persons interested in learning about hunting sports.

  1. An Apprentice Hunter License may be issued to a person of any age, including residents and nonresidents.

  2. The Apprentice Hunter License shall entitle the licensee to hunt on private property while supervised by a validly licensed resident or nonresident hunter who is 21 years of age or older.

  3. The Apprentice Hunter License shall entitle the licensee to hunt on public property while supervised by a validly licensed resident or nonresident who is 21 years of age or older and has a hunter education certificate.

  4. The Apprentice License shall expire on March 31st of the following year.

  5. Purchase of the Hunting Apprentice License can be made online, at your nearest vendor location, or by calling 1-866-716-6550.