Minnesota falconry license

First-year fees

Ask the agency — the Minnesota DNR falconry pages publish no permit fee; confirm charges with the DNR Falconry Coordinator.

The permitting pipeline (exam around May, facilities June–July, inspection, application Aug–Sept) usually takes several months; new-permit processing pauses Dec 1 – May 1.

Exam & minimum age

Exam: 100 questions, 80% to pass. 100-question multiple-choice exam, at least 80 correct to pass; emphasizes practical aspects — no scientific names or obscure publications. Failed applicants wait at least two weeks to retake.

Minimum age: 12 — Junior Apprentice class: at least 12 and under 16 (Minn. R. 6238; MN DNR), housing the bird with a permitted adult; Apprentice requires 16, General and Master 18.

Classes: Junior Apprentice → Apprentice → General → Master

Birds by class & trapping

Junior Apprentice (12–16): one passage red-tailed hawk. Apprentice (16+): one passage red-tailed hawk — after two seasons with sponsor approval, any Apprentice-legal species under federal rules and Minn. R. 6238.1200. General (18+): up to 2 raptors — stricter than the federal 3; eagles and state/federal listed species barred. Master: up to 5 raptors but at most 3 wild raptors at once; golden eagles need separate authorization.

Falconry seasons run May 1 – Apr 30; each 'season of experience' needs six months, at least four between Sept 1 and Feb 28/29. Up to two wild replacements per season; apprentices and junior apprentices may not hold imprints or nestling-taken birds.

Notes from the official sources

Permits are valid three years, expiring Sept 30; renewal requires a fresh facilities-and-equipment inspection by a Conservation Officer, Nongame Specialist or the Falconry Coordinator. New residents and 120-day part-time residents skip the exam but still pass inspection and apply in full; incoming birds need veterinary Board of Health Certifications.