The International Hunter Education Association–USA (IHEA-USA) launched its new online hunter education course with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) on November 11, 2026, introducing a model that combines accessible online learning with direct financial support for participating state wildlife agencies.
The model returns 80% of course profits to participating states, helping support hunter education and public shooting opportunities. By directing the majority of profits back to state programs by way of its “Opportunity Bank”, IHEA-USA connects each student’s investment in online hunter education with flexible spending support for state wildlife agencies.
In Alabama, this ADCNR-approved course costs just $20 and provides an online option for earning hunter education certification. For many states, offering the course at this price helps students save money when compared to other online alternatives. This approach gives agencies an opportunity to expand affordable choices for the public while receiving a share of course profits to support their programs.
“Supporting state hunter education programs is core to IHEA-USA’s mission, and this model puts that commitment into practice,” said Alex Baer, the organization’s Executive Director. “Returning profits to our state partners makes sense - especially at a time when budgets are tightening. It’s definitely a win-win when we meet our mission and state educators share in the success. We look forward to bringing this program to other states, and appreciate Alabama’s willingness to open that door.”
“We’re proud that Alabama is the first state to offer IHEA’s new online Hunter Education course, and we’re grateful to IHEA’s staff and board for their work establishing high standards and ensuring reciprocity among states,” said Justin Grider, ADCNR R3 Assistant Chief. “Our agency is committed to providing access to quality hunter education both online and in person, and this course gives Alabamians another quality option to become safe, responsible hunters.”
Available through IHEA-USA’s Outdoor Education Learning Network (OutdoorELN), the course uses interactive lessons and real-world scenarios to teach safe, responsible, and ethical hunting practices. Students can work at their own pace using a phone, tablet, or computer, making it easier to fit hunter education into their schedules. All student data is made available in real-time to designated State Agency personnel to streamline license sales for graduates. It provides a model for other states seeking to pair engaging online education and affordable student options with reinvestment in hunter education and shooting opportunities.
Prospective students can learn more and enroll at huntered.outdooreln.org. Information about Alabama’s hunter education options is available at Outdoor Alabama. To learn how your state can offer this course, contact Matt Clarey, Director of Business Development and Sales at mclarey@ihea-usa.org or 423-244-1501.
About IHEA-USA: The International Hunter Education Association–USA serves hunting and shooting sports educators worldwide by developing and implementing standards and resources based on research that promote safe, responsible, and ethical practices while fostering partner communication.