Initially open only to youth under 12, the Mentored Hunting Program has expanded incrementally in recent years to offer opportunities to unlicensed hunters of all ages. Mentored hunters are not required to take a Hunter-Trapper Education (HTE) class before obtaining a permit to hunt through the program. Mentored hunters ages 12 or older may participate in the program for a maximum of three license years. After that period, they must obtain a license to hunt. Individuals who participate in the mentored program for at least three years before turning 12 are required to get a license at 12 rather than continuing as a mentored hunter. License buyers must first successfully complete an HTE course.