Step-by-step: How to start falconry in Idaho
(pre-apprentice → apprentice)

  1. Study and connect
    • Read the federal falconry regs and Idaho’s falconry rules. Join IFA and meet local falconers—they’ll help with facilities, species choices and hunting seasons. eCFR+1
  2. Find a sponsor (required)
    • Your apprentice application must include a letter from a General or Master Falconer agreeing to assist you (mentoring on husbandry, training, hunting and laws). eCFR
  3. Pass the Idaho falconry exam
    • Idaho requires a passing score of at least 80% on the Department’s exam as a permit prerequisite (with limited temporary-use exceptions for nonresidents). Admin Rules Idaho
  4. Prepare facilities & be inspected
    • Before you possess a raptor, IDFG must inspect your holding facilities and equipment for compliance with federal § 21.82 and Idaho standards. You must also notify IDFG within five business days if you move your facilities. Admin Rules Idaho
  5. Meet the federal facility & basic equipment standards
    • Indoor housing: Space to allow the bird to fully extend wings, at least one opening for sunlight with protection, a suitable perch and a bath container. eCFR
    • If you use a weathering area: It must offer shade and protection from predators. eCFR
    • You must have (equipment): jesses (or material to make them), a leash and swivel, a bath container and an appropriate scale/balance for weighing the raptor. eCFR
  6. Apply for your Idaho falconry permit
    • Idaho issues Apprentice, General and Master permits. IDFG verifies federal prerequisites for each class; only Masters may qualify for eagle or peregrine capture validations. Application forms are on IDFG’s “Applications & Forms” page. Admin Rules Idaho+1
  7. Acquire a raptor (capture or transfer) within Idaho rules
    • With an Idaho falconry permit, you may capture up to two wild raptors per calendar year (subject to federal class limits and any Commission proclamations). Adult American kestrels and great horned owls are only open to capture Aug 1–Feb 28/29; immature birds of open species may be captured year-round. Bald eagles are not allowed for falconry; additional permits are needed for peregrines or listed species when allowed. Admin Rules Idaho
    • Idaho publishes a separate, current Peregrine Capture season & application (2025–2027) for qualified Master falconers. Idaho Fish and Game
  8. Report promptly
    • File the federal Form 3-186A in the USFWS electronic system within 10 days after any acquisition, capture, loss, transfer, release, banding, rebanding, microchipping or death. Admin Rules Idaho
  9. Hunt legally
    • All Idaho hunting laws apply when you take wildlife by falconry (licenses/tags/stamps as required, seasons, bag/possession limits). Admin Rules Idaho