What class of falconry license must an apprentice hold before they can transition to general?

To transition from an apprentice falconry license to a general falconry license, the individual must hold an apprentice license for a minimum of two years. This requirement is fundamental to ensure that the apprentice has adequate training, experience, and knowledge in falconry practices, including bird care, handling, and hunting techniques. The apprentice phase is designed to provide foundational training under the supervision of a more experienced falconer, which is essential for the safe and ethical practice of falconry.

The other classes of licenses serve different purposes. A temporary license is often used for short-term situations, such as when someone needs to handle a raptor for a specific event or purpose, but it does not allow for the range of activities a general license provides. A provisional license may involve additional restrictions and is not a direct pathway to moving from apprentice status. A master license is the highest level of falconry qualification, which requires substantial experience and a demonstrated ability to keep and train birds of prey independently, making it irrelevant to the transition from an apprentice to a general license. Thus, holding the apprentice license is the clear prerequisite for progressing in the falconry licensing structure.