With Georgia hunting seasons approaching, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters to make sure they have completed required hunter education before heading to the woods or purchasing a season hunting license.

The DNR Wildlife Resources Division offers both online and traditional classroom courses. There are 10 online course options, including one offered in Spanish. Online course costs range from free to $49.95, depending on the independent provider, while the DNR’s in-person classroom course is offered free of charge.

Hunter education is required for people born on or after January 1, 1961, who purchase a season hunting license in Georgia. It is also required for hunters who are at least 12 years old and hunt without adult supervision, as well as those hunting big game — including deer, turkey or bear — on a Wildlife Management Area.

There are some exceptions. Hunter education is not required for someone purchasing an Apprentice Hunting License or short-term hunting license. The requirement also does not apply to someone hunting on their own land or a dependent hunting on property belonging to a parent or legal guardian.

DNR officials say the purpose of hunter education is to prepare hunters before they enter the field by emphasizing safety, responsibility and knowledge of hunting practices and regulations.

Those completing an approved online course can access their Georgia Hunter Safety Certificate through their DNR customer account. Georgia also accepts qualifying hunter education certifications issued by other state wildlife agencies and Canadian provinces.

More information about hunter education and available courses can be found through the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division.