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West Virginia Hunting License (2026)

Restricted: West Virginia requires a hunting license, and hunter-education certification is mandatory for those born on or after Jan 1, 1975.

RestrictedVerified Jun 18, 2026

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West Virginia requires a hunting license, and hunter-education certification is mandatory for those born on or after Jan 1, 1975. Resident and nonresident licenses are available through the WV Division of Natural Resources.

Official source: wvdnr.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Hunting License in states bordering West Virginia

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

KentuckyRestricted
Kentucky requires a hunting license, and hunter-education certification is mandatory for those born on or after Jan 1, 1975. Resident and nonresident licenses are available through KDFWR.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: fw.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
MarylandRestricted
Maryland requires a hunting license, and first-time hunters need a Certificate of Competency in Hunter Safety unless they held a Maryland license before July 1, 1977. Licenses are available through MD DNR.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
OhioRestricted
Ohio requires a hunting license, and first-time license buyers must complete hunter education (apprentice license exempt). Resident and nonresident licenses are available through the ODNR Div. of Wildlife.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: ohiodnr.gov · Full Ohio rule →
PennsylvaniaRestricted
A Pennsylvania hunting license is required; all first-time hunters/trappers, regardless of age, must complete Basic Hunter-Trapper Education before buying a license.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania rule →
VirginiaRestricted
Virginia requires a hunting license, and hunter education is mandatory for hunters age 12-15 or anyone who has never held a regular hunting license. Licenses, including an apprentice license, are available through Virginia DWR.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dwr.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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