Virginia Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed 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.
Overview
Virginia adopts federal falconry definitions, regulations, and standards through 4VAC15-250-10 per 50 CFR 21.3 (definitions) and 50 CFR 21.29 (falconry standards and permitting). Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources fully delegated falconry permitting effective January 1, 2012; no federal permit required. Three permit classes follow federal standards: Apprentice, General, Master. Examination required before initial permit: 105 questions (100 general + 5 VA-specific), 80% passing (84 correct). Once exam passed, no future examination required for renewal, class changes, or state residence changes. Facilities and equipment inspected and certified before permit issuance. Director delegated authority to propose modifications to federal standards per Code of Virginia §§29.1-501 and 29.1-502.
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
Virginia issues three permit classes following federal standards in 50 CFR 21.29 adopted by reference in 4VAC15-250-10: Apprentice, General, and Master. Permits issued under federal falconry standards and permitting regulations effective October 8, 2008 and amendments through January 21, 2010. Once examination passed, no future examination required for permit renewal, changes in permit class, or changes in state of residence. Facilities and equipment must be inspected and certified by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources representative before permit issuance. All permit requirements follow adopted federal regulations.
Exam Information
Virginia requires applicants to correctly answer at least 80% (84 of 105 questions) on supervised examination approved by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and administered by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources before any falconry permit issuance. Examination covers basic biology, care and handling of raptors, literature, laws and regulations surrounding falconry practice, and appropriate subject matter. Exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions (four possible answers each) distributed into three categories: raptor identification/biology, maintenance in captivity, and falconry practices/regulations, plus 5 additional Virginia-specific questions for 105 total. Statistical probability of passing without study less than one in a million. Failed applicants may retake exam per Department schedule. Once passed, no future examination required for renewal or class/residence changes.
Housing Requirements
Virginia requires applicant raptor housing facilities inspected and certified by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources representative before permit issuance. Primary consideration is protection from elements, predators, and undue disturbance. Indoor facilities (mews) must be large enough for easy access to care for raptors, with raptors tethered or separated by partitions if multiple housed. Outdoor weathering areas must provide protection from elements, predators, disturbance. Depending on climatic conditions, Department may require only one facility type. Facilities must meet federal and state standards adopted in 4VAC15-250-10.
Equipment Requirements
Virginia requires falconry equipment to be inspected and certified by Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources representative before permit issuance. All equipment must be appropriate for species possessed and suitable for proper raptor care, handling, and welfare. Equipment standards follow federal regulations in 50 CFR 21.29 adopted by reference in 4VAC15-250-10.