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Learn how to become a game warden: Requirements, duties & salary
You might ask yourself what qualities or characteristics are important to becoming a good game warden? Those with a keen work ethic and passion for the natural environment and its resources are great candidates. Good judgment and a sound moral character are also beneficial when choosing to pursue a career as a game warden.
Those characteristics are not all that is needed, though. An array of basic standards and a strong educational foundation are required when pursuing this career.
Fish and game wardens, commonly called conservation officers, protect the natural resources of their jurisdiction. They enforce laws directly, educate the public and perform search and rescue missions when needed.
Learn how to become a game warden in 4 steps
Fulfill the basic game warden requirements.
Most states require candidates to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree before applying. Most game warden applicants pursue their degree in field of study relating to law enforcement or sciences. Criminal Justice is an extremely common major chosen for many future game warden applicants. However, earning your degree in natural sciences can also be a great choice.
Complete academy and field game warden training.
Most states require aspiring game warden to attend an academy, where applicants are trained in biology, law and the associated sciences of their jurisdiction. These academies can last anywhere from three to 12 months. After graduating from your state’s game warden academy, some states require applicants to complete a set amount of field training hours. Each state has a subjective amount of field training hours required to be completed by candidates. It will benefit those seeking out this career to research their local agencies required amount of field training hours, in order to anticipate how much additional time they will spend training after academy graduation.
Pass the required exams.
Once a candidate graduates from their state’s academy, and completes the required field training, they must pass a generalized exam, medical exam and complete firearm training. Applicants who fail any of these exams could be barred from re-applying for up to 12 months.
Typical candidates will receive an offer of employment. However, many states may hire their game warden for a first-year probationary period. This first year will end with performance review gauging the new game warden’s quality of work.
It’s important to retain much of the information studied for during your initial game warden exams, as this is vital to future job security.
What is a fish and game warden? Fish and game wardens, commonly called conservation officers, protect the natural resources of their jurisdiction. They enforce laws directly, educate the public and perform search and rescue missions when needed.
Learn how to become a game warden in 4 steps Fulfill the basic game warden requirements.
Basic requirements to become a game warden vary by state, however, common prerequisites across the U.S. include:
Minimum age of 21
U.S. citizen and valid driver’s license
A high school diploma or GED
Pass a background check
Pass a basic medical examination
Pass a polygraph examination
Complete the Physical Readiness Test (PRT)
Complete the Police Officer Selection Test (POST)
It is important to understand the basic requirements of the jurisdiction that you may want to work in. Game warden candidates can save time and money by properly researching their territory’s job requirements before pursuing the career. You can find your local requirements by checking on your city, state or county’s website or by contacting the agency directly.
Earn your degree. Most states require candidates to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree before applying. Most game warden applicants pursue their degree in a field of study relating to law enforcement or sciences. Criminal Justice is an extremely common major chosen for many future game warden applicants. However, earning your degree in natural sciences can also be a great choice.
While many states don’t require a college education, many candidates report that achieving a higher degree has helped them stand out within a competitive job market.
Complete academy and field game warden training. Most states require aspiring game warden to attend an academy, where applicants are trained in biology, law, and the associated sciences of their jurisdiction. These academies can last anywhere from three to 12 months. After graduating from your state’s game warden academy, some states require applicants to complete a set amount of field training hours. Each state has a subjective amount of field training hours required to be completed by candidates. It will benefit those seeking out this career to research their local agencies required amount of field training hours, in order to anticipate how much additional time they will spend training after academy graduation.
Pass the required exams. Once a candidate graduates from their state’s academy, and completes the required field training, they must pass a generalized exam, medical exam and complete firearm training. Applicants who fail any of these exams could be barred from re-applying for up to 12 months.
Typical candidates will receive an offer of employment. However, many states may hire their game warden during a first-year probationary period. This first year will end with a performance review gauging the new game warden’s quality of work.
Game warden requirements (the bare minimum) Minimum Age:
In most states, you must be at least 21 years old.
Physical Capabilities:
The basic daily duties of a fish or game warden include myriad physically demanding tasks such as hiking over difficult terrain, extensive swimming, apprehending criminals, and operating a variety of vehicles efficiently. Some states require a fitness example. Each state has different requirements for their physical fitness exams.
Exams:
Each state has a required game-warden exam. These exams consist of questions relating to both state and federal law, environmental sciences, geography, biology, and writing skills.
Before becoming a game warden, you will be interviewed extensively and need to pass psychological and physical exams, take a urinalysis, and pass a thorough background check. Additionally, select states will only hire present police officers for game warden positions.
Some basic fundamental steps to develop the skills needed to become a game warden include:
Study natural resource laws and law enforcement techniques
Gain knowledge of the outdoors and outdoor activities
Maintain mental and physical fitness
Find a summer internship in resource management, outdoor recreation or law enforcement
Become a state law enforcement agent
Sponsored programs for you Liberty University
Business Administration: Green & Sustainable Management
Bachelor's
Online
Liberty University
Business Administration: Public Administration
Bachelor's
Online
Liberty University
Criminal Justice: Public Administration
Bachelor's
Online
Bryant & Stratton College
Legal Office Assistant
Diploma
Online
Education and schools Beyond training academies, there are no specific schools for game wardens. However, obtaining your associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice could help you meet the educational standards of the job. Many online, accredited schools offer the educational foundation you need to become a game warden.
Some states have game warden academies that candidates attend for basic training. The length of academy training varies from state to state. Although differences do exist from state academy to state academy, there is significant subject matter overlap. Common areas of study include:
Boat operations and water rescue
Defensive tactics
Driver training
First aid
Fish, wildlife, and natural resource management
Homeland security
Law enforcement
Physical training
Use of firearms
Some states also require field training upon completing an academy, providing candidates with further hands‑on experience.
Degrees Although there are various game warden academies in certain states, and a federal game warden academy in Glynco, GA, it is important to complete basic educational requirements first.
Every state has different standards, yet many require game wardens to have an associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Some states require candidates to complete degree in a particular field such as criminal justice or within natural sciences.
Others may also choose to study public policy, criminal justice administration or emergency and disaster management.
"It’s always good to get that four year or associate degree," said Capt. Sean Green of the Lafayette, LA Wildlife and Fisheries Department. "We (Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department) do not require a four year degree currently. Yet, we do require 60 hours of college credit, pretty much the same amount of study or equivalent to an associate’s degree."
Additionally, some agencies may offer promotional or financial incentives to receive graduate degrees.
Certifications Aside from passing basic medical exams and an extensive background check, game wardens are required to earn a firearms certification. This certification requires that candidates pass a firearms handling and shooting exam. Candidates may also require various motor vehicle licenses.
What does a game warden do? A game warden’s primary duty is to enforce various environmental laws. Game wardens are expected to know much about hunting, fishing, wildlife regulations, camping and other outdoor activities.
Other duties include helping biologists study wildlife or fisheries, enforcing hunting and fishing bag limits, giving public education, and conducting search and rescue operations.
Fish and game warden salary There are approximately 6,290 fish and game wardens. Median annual salary $68,180. Employment projected decline -6% through 2034.
Median Salary: $68,180
Projected job growth: -6%
10th Percentile: $35,670
25th Percentile: $53,260
75th Percentile: $82,100
90th Percentile: $94,470
Top states by employment:
Florida 680
Texas 490
New York 380
Tennessee 350
California 290
State salary data:
Alabama $71,070 $38,530 $86,780
Arizona $45,000 $36,410 $63,520
Arkansas $70,100 $49,510 $87,730
California $94,990 $68,290 $109,330
Connecticut $62,530 $52,140 $75,040
Delaware N/A N/A N/A
Florida $32,760 $31,200 $37,440
Georgia $73,490 $52,240 $87,930
Hawaii $70,840 $59,170 $98,700
Idaho $70,350 $48,970 $88,900
Indiana $99,990 $72,990 $114,990
Iowa $92,270 $64,170 $92,270
Kansas $61,840 $53,410 $75,170
Kentucky $52,980 $48,050 $62,980
Louisiana $51,370 $39,200 $78,180
Maine $71,120 $55,410 $76,340
Maryland $87,180 $77,140 $96,170
Game warden job FAQs What is a typical day for a game warden?
Many game wardens may not have traditional 9 to 5 hours. Shifts may be long and irregular.
What are the duties of a game warden?
Game wardens are responsible for enforcing ecological laws, investigating; compiling evidence; issuing licenses; and so on.
Are game wardens important for the environment?
Game wardens are vital to protecting and stabilizing the environment.
Where do game wardens get paid the most?
National median salary $68,180. Variation by state.
How can a game warden increase their salary throughout their career?
Promotion is the most likely way to increase salary.
Written and researched by Joe Edwards
All Star Staff Writer
With professional insights from Lisa Morano, Ph.D.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Those characteristics are not all that is needed, though. An array of basic standards and a strong educational foundation are required when pursuing this career.
Fish and game wardens, commonly called conservation officers, protect the natural resources of their jurisdiction. They enforce laws directly, educate the public and perform search and rescue missions when needed.
Learn how to become a game warden in 4 steps
Fulfill the basic game warden requirements.
Most states require candidates to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree before applying. Most game warden applicants pursue their degree in field of study relating to law enforcement or sciences. Criminal Justice is an extremely common major chosen for many future game warden applicants. However, earning your degree in natural sciences can also be a great choice.
Complete academy and field game warden training.
Most states require aspiring game warden to attend an academy, where applicants are trained in biology, law and the associated sciences of their jurisdiction. These academies can last anywhere from three to 12 months. After graduating from your state’s game warden academy, some states require applicants to complete a set amount of field training hours. Each state has a subjective amount of field training hours required to be completed by candidates. It will benefit those seeking out this career to research their local agencies required amount of field training hours, in order to anticipate how much additional time they will spend training after academy graduation.
Pass the required exams.
Once a candidate graduates from their state’s academy, and completes the required field training, they must pass a generalized exam, medical exam and complete firearm training. Applicants who fail any of these exams could be barred from re-applying for up to 12 months.
Typical candidates will receive an offer of employment. However, many states may hire their game warden for a first-year probationary period. This first year will end with performance review gauging the new game warden’s quality of work.
It’s important to retain much of the information studied for during your initial game warden exams, as this is vital to future job security.
What is a fish and game warden? Fish and game wardens, commonly called conservation officers, protect the natural resources of their jurisdiction. They enforce laws directly, educate the public and perform search and rescue missions when needed.
Learn how to become a game warden in 4 steps Fulfill the basic game warden requirements.
Basic requirements to become a game warden vary by state, however, common prerequisites across the U.S. include:
Minimum age of 21
U.S. citizen and valid driver’s license
A high school diploma or GED
Pass a background check
Pass a basic medical examination
Pass a polygraph examination
Complete the Physical Readiness Test (PRT)
Complete the Police Officer Selection Test (POST)
It is important to understand the basic requirements of the jurisdiction that you may want to work in. Game warden candidates can save time and money by properly researching their territory’s job requirements before pursuing the career. You can find your local requirements by checking on your city, state or county’s website or by contacting the agency directly.
Earn your degree. Most states require candidates to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree before applying. Most game warden applicants pursue their degree in a field of study relating to law enforcement or sciences. Criminal Justice is an extremely common major chosen for many future game warden applicants. However, earning your degree in natural sciences can also be a great choice.
While many states don’t require a college education, many candidates report that achieving a higher degree has helped them stand out within a competitive job market.
Complete academy and field game warden training. Most states require aspiring game warden to attend an academy, where applicants are trained in biology, law, and the associated sciences of their jurisdiction. These academies can last anywhere from three to 12 months. After graduating from your state’s game warden academy, some states require applicants to complete a set amount of field training hours. Each state has a subjective amount of field training hours required to be completed by candidates. It will benefit those seeking out this career to research their local agencies required amount of field training hours, in order to anticipate how much additional time they will spend training after academy graduation.
Pass the required exams. Once a candidate graduates from their state’s academy, and completes the required field training, they must pass a generalized exam, medical exam and complete firearm training. Applicants who fail any of these exams could be barred from re-applying for up to 12 months.
Typical candidates will receive an offer of employment. However, many states may hire their game warden during a first-year probationary period. This first year will end with a performance review gauging the new game warden’s quality of work.
Game warden requirements (the bare minimum) Minimum Age:
In most states, you must be at least 21 years old.
Physical Capabilities:
The basic daily duties of a fish or game warden include myriad physically demanding tasks such as hiking over difficult terrain, extensive swimming, apprehending criminals, and operating a variety of vehicles efficiently. Some states require a fitness example. Each state has different requirements for their physical fitness exams.
Exams:
Each state has a required game-warden exam. These exams consist of questions relating to both state and federal law, environmental sciences, geography, biology, and writing skills.
Before becoming a game warden, you will be interviewed extensively and need to pass psychological and physical exams, take a urinalysis, and pass a thorough background check. Additionally, select states will only hire present police officers for game warden positions.
Some basic fundamental steps to develop the skills needed to become a game warden include:
Study natural resource laws and law enforcement techniques
Gain knowledge of the outdoors and outdoor activities
Maintain mental and physical fitness
Find a summer internship in resource management, outdoor recreation or law enforcement
Become a state law enforcement agent
Sponsored programs for you Liberty University
Business Administration: Green & Sustainable Management
Bachelor's
Online
Liberty University
Business Administration: Public Administration
Bachelor's
Online
Liberty University
Criminal Justice: Public Administration
Bachelor's
Online
Bryant & Stratton College
Legal Office Assistant
Diploma
Online
Education and schools Beyond training academies, there are no specific schools for game wardens. However, obtaining your associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice could help you meet the educational standards of the job. Many online, accredited schools offer the educational foundation you need to become a game warden.
Some states have game warden academies that candidates attend for basic training. The length of academy training varies from state to state. Although differences do exist from state academy to state academy, there is significant subject matter overlap. Common areas of study include:
Boat operations and water rescue
Defensive tactics
Driver training
First aid
Fish, wildlife, and natural resource management
Homeland security
Law enforcement
Physical training
Use of firearms
Some states also require field training upon completing an academy, providing candidates with further hands‑on experience.
Degrees Although there are various game warden academies in certain states, and a federal game warden academy in Glynco, GA, it is important to complete basic educational requirements first.
Every state has different standards, yet many require game wardens to have an associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Some states require candidates to complete degree in a particular field such as criminal justice or within natural sciences.
Others may also choose to study public policy, criminal justice administration or emergency and disaster management.
"It’s always good to get that four year or associate degree," said Capt. Sean Green of the Lafayette, LA Wildlife and Fisheries Department. "We (Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department) do not require a four year degree currently. Yet, we do require 60 hours of college credit, pretty much the same amount of study or equivalent to an associate’s degree."
Additionally, some agencies may offer promotional or financial incentives to receive graduate degrees.
Certifications Aside from passing basic medical exams and an extensive background check, game wardens are required to earn a firearms certification. This certification requires that candidates pass a firearms handling and shooting exam. Candidates may also require various motor vehicle licenses.
What does a game warden do? A game warden’s primary duty is to enforce various environmental laws. Game wardens are expected to know much about hunting, fishing, wildlife regulations, camping and other outdoor activities.
Other duties include helping biologists study wildlife or fisheries, enforcing hunting and fishing bag limits, giving public education, and conducting search and rescue operations.
Fish and game warden salary There are approximately 6,290 fish and game wardens. Median annual salary $68,180. Employment projected decline -6% through 2034.
Median Salary: $68,180
Projected job growth: -6%
10th Percentile: $35,670
25th Percentile: $53,260
75th Percentile: $82,100
90th Percentile: $94,470
Top states by employment:
Florida 680
Texas 490
New York 380
Tennessee 350
California 290
State salary data:
Alabama $71,070 $38,530 $86,780
Arizona $45,000 $36,410 $63,520
Arkansas $70,100 $49,510 $87,730
California $94,990 $68,290 $109,330
Connecticut $62,530 $52,140 $75,040
Delaware N/A N/A N/A
Florida $32,760 $31,200 $37,440
Georgia $73,490 $52,240 $87,930
Hawaii $70,840 $59,170 $98,700
Idaho $70,350 $48,970 $88,900
Indiana $99,990 $72,990 $114,990
Iowa $92,270 $64,170 $92,270
Kansas $61,840 $53,410 $75,170
Kentucky $52,980 $48,050 $62,980
Louisiana $51,370 $39,200 $78,180
Maine $71,120 $55,410 $76,340
Maryland $87,180 $77,140 $96,170
Game warden job FAQs What is a typical day for a game warden?
Many game wardens may not have traditional 9 to 5 hours. Shifts may be long and irregular.
What are the duties of a game warden?
Game wardens are responsible for enforcing ecological laws, investigating; compiling evidence; issuing licenses; and so on.
Are game wardens important for the environment?
Game wardens are vital to protecting and stabilizing the environment.
Where do game wardens get paid the most?
National median salary $68,180. Variation by state.
How can a game warden increase their salary throughout their career?
Promotion is the most likely way to increase salary.
Written and researched by Joe Edwards
All Star Staff Writer
With professional insights from Lisa Morano, Ph.D.
#J-18808-Ljbffr