Information concerning the Assistant Hunting Guide Certification Program
In order to guide for big game as an assistant hunting guide in British Columbia, you must pass the Assistant Hunting Guide Exam and secure employment with a licenced guide outfitter. The guide outfitter will provide you with a written authorization which must be carried with you while guiding. NOTE: If you are a non-resident of Canada, you MUST have the proper work permit or VISA to allow you to work in Canada. Do It Yourself (DIY) hunts are not legal, even if offered by a guide outfitter in BC. Any activity that you are not paid to do but is a job that you would usually be paid for or would be a valuable work experience for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident is considered work for which you require a work permit.
The online portal randomly generates a 75-question exam from a bank of questions, and you will have 90 minutes to complete it. The exam is open book and must be completed without the assistance of others. You must answer at least 75% of the questions correctly to achieve certification.
You will be given three attempts to successfully complete the exam before needing to pay again. The fee is non-refundable. You may refer to The GOABC's Refund Policy.
Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive proof of certification, which will allow you to be employed by a licenced guide outfitter. Your certification card will take approximately 7-14 business days to arrive in the mail. You do not need to wait to receive your certification card to begin work, you only require your Certification Number, beginning with HG.
Potential assistant hunting guides should prepare for the exam by studying the following materials:
In the event that you require an oral version of the exam to be administered, please contact the GOABC at 1-877-818-2688 to schedule an appointment during regular business hours (Monday-Friday 8:30AM-4:30PM PST).
Before taking the exam, be sure to have the following items ready:
  • A printer (optional) – if you pass, you can print a proof of certification. If you do not have a printer, you may manually record your certification number.
  • A clear digital image (optional) of your head and shoulders, similar to a passport photograph (2x2 inches). The image should be no larger than 250KB.
  • A credit card or a PayPal account to pay the exam fee of $250 CAD plus GST, for a total of $262.50. There is an additional service charge to use PayPal.
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