 First-time trappers in many states and Canadian provinces must complete a trapper education program covering skills, regulations, and trapping's role in scientific wildlife management. Trapper education programs teach basic techniques with a strong focus on the responsible treatment of animals, legal methods, safety, selectivity, and ethical trapper behavior.To meet your state's requirement — or just to enrich your knowledge and skill — select a course category below to create an account and enroll. There is no charge for participation. Available Courses
| Trapping is highly regulated. In many states and provinces, trappers must be certified through completion of trapper education courses.  Egg foothold trap for raccoons Experience trapping No book, manual or online course can compare to the valuable experience of learning trapping in a hands-on environment. Use the information on this site to learn about techniques, regulations and ethics. Then, connect with a reputable trapper or local course to learn more.  |
The purpose of this Trapper Education Program is to help individuals throughout the U.S. acquire the knowledge, skill, attitude, and judgement to selectively and responsibly trap furbearing animals for the many benefits it provides.
In Illinois, those under 18 years of age must pass a trapper education course before they are allowed to buy a trapping license. You can meet half of this requirement by completing this online course. After successful completion of the online portion, 
Persons born on or after July 1, 1966 must complete the course before harvesting 