Understanding Falconry Regulations
Falconry in the United States operates under a two-tier regulatory system. Understanding how federal and state rules interact is essential before you begin the licensing process.
Understanding falconry regulations is about more than passing an exam or avoiding fines. The regulatory framework represents decades of conservation work that has kept raptor populations healthy while allowing falconers to practice their craft. By learning these rules thoroughly, you become part of a tradition of responsible stewardship. Every falconer who follows the regulations contributes to the argument that falconry and wildlife conservation can coexist, strengthening the sport for future generations.
Why Falconry Is Regulated
All native raptors in the United States are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918. This law makes it illegal to possess, take, or kill migratory birds without explicit federal authorization.
Falconry is one of the ways this authorization is granted. The regulations exist to ensure that:
- Falconers are knowledgeable enough to care for raptors properly
- Wild populations aren’t harmed by take for falconry
- Birds in falconry are tracked and accounted for
- Standards exist for housing and care
The Good News
Falconry has been practiced legally in all 50 states since 2008, when federal regulations were updated to give states more authority over their falconry programs. While the rules can seem complex, they’re navigable—thousands of people get licensed every year.
The Two-Tier System
Falconry is regulated at both the federal and state level. Here’s how it works:
Federal Regulations (The Floor)
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) sets minimum standards through 50 CFR 21.29. These regulations establish:
- The three license classes (Apprentice, General, Master)
- Minimum time requirements at each level
- Species restrictions by license class
- Maximum number of birds per falconer
- Minimum facility standards
- Reporting and banding requirements
State Regulations (The Specifics)
Each state administers its own falconry program within federal guidelines. States can be more restrictive than federal law, but not less. This means:
- Your state sets the exam content and passing score
- Your state determines exact facility specifications
- Your state may add species restrictions beyond federal minimums
- Your state sets licensing fees and renewal procedures
- Your state schedules inspections and maintains records
Example: How Rules Can Vary
Federal law allows General falconers up to 3 raptors. But:
- State A might also allow 3 raptors (matching federal)
- State B might limit General falconers to 2 raptors (more restrictive)
- No state can allow General falconers to have 4+ raptors (less restrictive than federal—not allowed)
Key Federal Requirements
Regardless of your state, these federal minimums apply everywhere:
Apprentice Falconer
- Duration: Minimum 2 years before advancing
- Birds allowed: 1 at a time
- Species: Red-tailed Hawk or American Kestrel only
- Sponsor: Required (General or Master falconer)
- Acquisition: Wild-caught passage birds; may purchase captive-bred
General Falconer
- Prerequisite: At least 2 years as Apprentice
- Duration: Minimum 5 years before advancing to Master
- Birds allowed: Up to 3 at a time
- Species: Most species except Golden Eagle
- Sponsor: Not required; may sponsor Apprentices
Master Falconer
- Prerequisite: At least 5 years as General
- Birds allowed: Up to 5 at a time
- Species: All species, including Golden Eagle (with additional permit)
- Breeding: May breed raptors and sell offspring
Reporting Requirements
Falconers must maintain records and report certain activities:
- 3-186A Form: Federal form for raptor acquisition, transfer, loss, or release
- Banding: All birds must be banded with federal bands; some states require additional bands
- Annual reports: Many states require yearly reporting of birds possessed
- Transfer records: Documentation when birds change hands
Moving Between States
If you move to a new state, you’ll need to:
- Notify your current state of the move
- Apply for a license in the new state
- Your experience carries over (no restarting as Apprentice)
- Your facilities must meet the new state’s requirements
- Some states have reciprocity agreements; others require exams
Contact both states’ wildlife agencies before moving to understand the process.
Common Compliance Issues
Most violations are unintentional. Common issues include:
- Late reporting: Failing to file 3-186A forms within required timeframes
- Expired licenses: Letting your permit lapse before renewal
- Facility issues: Modifications that take your mews out of compliance
- Record-keeping: Incomplete documentation of acquisitions and transfers
The consequences of violations can range from warnings to license suspension, depending on severity and intent. When in doubt, contact your state agency—they’d rather help you comply than punish mistakes.
Hunting Licenses
In addition to your falconry permit, you need a state hunting license to actually hunt with your bird. This is separate from your falconry license and has its own requirements (usually simpler—often just a fee and hunter education course).
Start With Your State
The regulations might seem overwhelming, but remember: your state wildlife agency is your primary resource. They administer the program, schedule exams, conduct inspections, and answer questions.
Find your state’s falconry coordinator and introduce yourself. They deal with aspiring falconers regularly and can guide you through the specific requirements for your area.
Start by downloading your state's current falconry regulations document, which is usually available as a free PDF from your state wildlife agency's website. Read through both the federal rules (50 CFR 21.29) and your state-specific requirements side by side, noting where your state adds additional restrictions. Keep a printed copy of both documents in your falconry records. When questions arise about what is permitted, always defer to the more restrictive rule, and contact your state falconry coordinator directly for clarification rather than relying on secondhand advice.
Next Steps
- 1. Search “[Your State] falconry regulations” to find your state’s rules
- 2. Contact your state wildlife agency for exam scheduling information
- 3. Download and read the federal regulations at the eCFR link above
- 4. Begin studying for the exam with the resources in our Resources section
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Build a personal regulatory reference by downloading and printing both the federal falconry regulations and your state’s specific requirements. Create a single-page summary sheet with the rules that apply to your current license class, including species restrictions, possession limits, facility standards, and reporting deadlines. Post this summary in your mews as a daily reminder. Set calendar reminders for license renewal dates and annual reporting deadlines at least 30 days before they are due. Join your state falconry club’s communications list to stay informed about regulatory changes, as clubs often provide advance notice and interpretation of new rules.
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The most serious regulatory misunderstanding is believing that falconry permits exempt you from other hunting regulations. You must still hold a valid state hunting license, observe game seasons, and follow bag limits for the quarry your bird pursues. Many falconers are also surprised to learn that they cannot simply keep any injured raptor they find. Possession of raptors outside the terms of your falconry permit requires separate rehabilitation permits. Another common oversight is neglecting to update your address and facility information with your state wildlife agency when you move, which is typically required within a specific timeframe.
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The dual federal-state regulatory system for falconry means you must comply with whichever set of rules is more restrictive on any given point. Federal law sets minimum standards for facilities, permits, and species management, but states can add requirements beyond these minimums. For example, some states require larger mews than the federal 64-square-foot minimum, restrict certain species that are federally permitted, or impose additional reporting requirements. Your state wildlife agency is your primary regulatory contact for questions, inspections, and permit administration. Building a good working relationship with your state falconry coordinator is one of the most valuable things you can do for your long-term falconry practice.