Now Is The Time To Register For Minnesota Firearms Safety Certification

Firearms safety classes are crucial in Minnesota to significantly reduce hunting-related injuries and fatalities.

The primary goal for offering these classes is to reduce accidents by teaching proper handling, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that they have led to a decrease in incidents since the program began in 1955.

While everyone is encouraged to take a firearms safety class, these courses are legally required for anyone born after December 31, 1979, to purchase a hunting license, ensuring participants are educated on safe handling.

Now Is The Time To Sign Up For A Firearms Safety Class

The Minnesota DNR says that while the fall hunting seasons are still a long way off, now is the time for anyone who plans to take a firearms safety class to sign up.

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The DNR notes that its volunteer firearms safety instructors host hundreds of classes each year and certify more than 23,000 students.

However, classes often fill quickly, and people who put off signing up might not be able to find a class close to home. Those who delay too long might even have to wait until next year to get certified.

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It's worth reiterating that firearms safety certification is required of anyone born after December 31, 1979, who wants to purchase a hunting license in Minnesota. It’s also recommended for anyone who hunts, even if by law they don’t need to be certified, because people who are certified are less likely to be injured or killed in a firearms-related hunting incident.

“We encourage people to check the safety training calendar now and sign up since the classes tend to fill quickly. While volunteer instructors will continue to schedule classes as their calendars allow, the number of open classes will diminish as the year goes on,” said Capt. Jon Paurus, DNR Enforcement education program coordinator.