Indiana Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed falconer in Indiana
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
Overview
Indiana regulates falconry through IC 14-22-23 and 312 IAC 9. Falconry licenses cost $60, valid until last day of February of third year after issuance. Three license classes exist: Apprentice (age 12+, one raptor), General (age 16+, up to three raptors), and Master (5 years at General, up to five wild raptors). Nonresidents with valid home state license not required to obtain Indiana license. To take wildlife, falconers need falconry license plus appropriate hunting license and required stamps. Facilities and equipment inspected before license issuance. All applicants must pass examination. Apprentices require sponsor with General or Master license and 2+ years General experience.
Apprentice
Requirements for beginning falconers. Typically includes 2 years of apprenticeship, sponsorship by a general or master falconer, and basic housing standards.
General
Requirements for intermediate falconers. Requires at least 2 years as an apprentice and allows for a wider selection of species and multiple birds.
Master
Requirements for advanced falconers. Requires at least 5 years of experience as a general falconer and allows the maximum number of birds and species.
License Information
Indiana issues three license classes at $60, valid until last day of February of third year after issuance. Apprentice requires age 12+ (parental co-signature if under 18), sponsor with valid General or Master license and 2+ years General experience (sponsor may have max 3 apprentices), allows one wild or captive-bred raptor only (American kestrel, red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, or Harris's hawk), no nestlings or imprinted birds, wild raptor taking under direct sponsor supervision. General requires age 16+ (parental co-signature if under 18), 2 years at apprentice with wild raptor possession, allows up to three raptors (wild, hybrid, or captive-bred). Master requires 5 years at General, allows up to five wild raptors. Nonresidents with valid home state license not required to obtain Indiana license. To take wildlife, must hold falconry license plus appropriate hunting license and required stamps per IC 14-22-7 or IC 14-22-8.
Exam Information
Indiana requires all applicants to pass examination demonstrating knowledge of falconry practices, raptor biology, care and handling, and applicable laws and regulations. Successful completion required before facilities inspection and license issuance. Exam ensures adequate knowledge before permit approval.
Housing Requirements
Indiana requires facilities to be inspected and approved before license issuance. Mews (indoor enclosures) must provide adequate space, protection, and perching for raptors. Weathering areas (outdoor enclosures) must protect from predators, weather, and disturbance. Giant hoods (enclosures affording protection and perching) permitted for transport. Facilities must meet state and federal standards for raptor housing and welfare.
Equipment Requirements
Indiana requires equipment meeting state standards before license issuance. Required items include proper jesses, leashes, swivels, perches, bath containers, and leg bands. Leg bands are permanent, nonreusable, numbered USFWS bands supplied by Department. Seamless metal bands identify captive-bred raptors. All equipment must be appropriate for species and suitable for proper care and handling.