Virginia Master Falconer Requirements

Complete checklist for becoming a master falconer in Virginia

Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.

Master Level

Advanced level for expert falconers - requires at least 5 years as general falconer

Key Requirements Overview

Complete at least 5 years as a licensed general falconer

Demonstrate extensive experience with multiple species

Expanded facilities to accommodate up to 5 birds (varies by state)

Access to all legal species including eagles (with additional permits)

May sponsor both apprentice and general falconers

Can possess wild-caught, captive-bred, and imported raptors

Exam Completion
Required
Complete 5 Years as General Falconer

Successfully practice falconry at the General level for at least 5 years

License Fees
Required
Pay Master License Upgrade Fee

Submit upgrade fee to advance to Master falconer classification

Specifications: {"fees": {"applicationFee": 20.0, "currency": "USD"}}

Mew Construction
Optional
Upgrade Mew to Master Standards (if needed)

Ensure falconry facility meets requirements for housing up to 5 raptors including golden eagles if desired

Citation: 4VAC15-270
Documentation
Required
Document Falconry Experience

Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period

Master-Eligible Species in Virginia

These species are legal for master falconers in Virginia. Click to view details.

Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis

All experience levels. APPRENTICE: May possess only ONE raptor (passage only, no nestlings per 50 CFR 21.82). Most apprentices start with red-tailed hawk. General: max 3 birds, 2 wild take/year. Master: max 5 birds, 2 wild take/year. Native to VA year-round (very common, diverse habitats, excellent beginner bird).

American Kestrel
Falco sparverius

All experience levels. APPRENTICE: May possess only ONE raptor. May be taken at ANY AGE per federal exception for kestrels (50 CFR 21.82). General: max 3 birds, 2 wild take/year. Master: max 5 birds, 2 wild take/year. Native to VA year-round (very common, smallest falcon, excellent beginner bird).

Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperii

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices per 50 CFR 21.82. Native to Virginia year-round (common in woodlands, suburban areas). May take passage birds during season (Oct 1-Mar 31). General: max 3 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Master: max 5 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Popular for bird hunting, requires experienced handler.

Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatus

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to Virginia (common migrant, winter visitor). May take passage birds during season (Oct 1-Mar 31). General: max 3 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Master: max 5 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Smallest accipiter, challenging quarry.

Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilis

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to Virginia (uncommon breeder in western mountains, winter visitor). May take passage birds during season (Oct 1-Mar 31). General: max 3 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Master: max 5 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Large raptor qualifying for eagle permit experience requirement. Federal name: American goshawk.

Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo lineatus

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to Virginia year-round (common in woodlands, piedmont and coastal plain). May take passage birds during season (Oct 1-Mar 31). General: max 3 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Master: max 5 birds total, 2 wild take/year. Mid-Atlantic specialist, year-round resident, distinctive rusty shoulder patches.

View All 30 Legal Species
Related Resources
Apprentice Requirements
General Requirements
Legal Species in Virginia