Nizhny Novgorod hunters will have to take an exam before obtaining a hunting license.

      31 August 2025 16:02

      [323]

      Society

      From September 1, 2025, the procedure for obtaining a hunting license in Russia will become stricter — a mandatory test on the hunting minimum will now be required. This was reported by the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife Protection of the Nizhny Novgorod Region.

      As explained by the head of the department, Roman Vorobyov, more than 2,000 people apply for a hunting license each year. Previously it was sufficient to familiarize oneself with basic information and sign, but now a full test is being introduced. It covers topics such as wild animal biology, hunting rules, safety measures, permissible methods of take and current restrictions.

      According to the minister, the innovation is aimed at increasing hunters’ responsibility, reducing the number of violations and combating poaching.

      The knowledge check must be passed both by newcomers applying for a license for the first time and by those who were previously deprived of the right to hunt on legal grounds and now wish to restore it.

      Although the rule is established at the federal level, the procedure for conducting the test, the form of applications and the locations for testing are determined by regional authorities. In the Nizhny Novgorod Region, this is the responsibility of the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife Protection. Up-to-date information about the procedure will be posted on the ministry’s official website and its public accounts.

      An application can be submitted at the address of permanent or temporary registration in the region — in person at the ministry (Nizhny Novgorod, 2 Kostina St., office 67), at its territorial subdivisions or by mail. In the future it will be possible to apply via the "Gosuslugi" portal.

      The application must be accompanied by documents confirming completion of the hunting minimum. These may be certificates from specialized organizations, hunting leaseholders, entrepreneurs with hunting management agreements, or from two hunters with more than five years’ experience. A copy of a diploma in a relevant field — secondary or higher — in game management is also acceptable.

      Applications without supporting documents will not be considered. The recommended format for certificates will be published on the ministry’s website.

      After submitting the application it will be registered within one business day. Within three business days the applicant will receive a notification offering to choose one of at least two dates and times for taking the test.

      The exam includes 101 questions; to pass, at least 75% must be answered correctly. Using reference materials and the internet during the test is prohibited.

      Results are reported no later than five business days after the test. In case of failure, a retake is possible only after one month — with a new application and package of documents. An appeals procedure is also provided.

      The innovation is based on Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 1227 of August 15, 2025, which approved the rules for conducting the knowledge check of the hunting minimum and the procedure for determining its results.

      Earlier it was reported that a poacher from Tonshaev who killed two moose faces up to 5 years in prison.

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