Hunter Education works. Since 1950, when formal hunter safety programs were introduced, the number of hunting and firearms-related accidents has declined dramatically nationwide. In Mississippi, we know that our hunter education efforts have reduced firearms accidents and saved lives. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks offers hunter education classes free of charge at locations across the state. The hunter education course includes 10 hours of instruction. To obtain hunter education certification, students must be at least 10 years of age and must attend all classroom hours and pass written exam.