Fit and competent register

About the register

The fit and competent register allows us to assess that you have enough knowledge and experience to control deer safely and responsibly.

You must register as fit and competent if you wish to:

• shoot during the close season
• shoot at night (from one hour after sunset until one hour before sunrise)
• drive deer with vehicles to shoot them

Before you begin

We'll ask you to provide:

• your firearm certificate number and expiry date
• your deer stalking certificate number and date issued
• referee details if you're applying for the first time with Deer Stalking Certificate 1 (DSC1)

Referees:

• must have DSC1 as a minimum
• cannot be members of your immediate family
• must have known you for a minimum of two years

General Authorisation

Exemption from fit and competent register

The General Authorisation allows certain people to shoot deer without the need to register as fit and competent or apply for a specific licence.

You do not need to register as fit and competent to shoot deer under General Authorisation if you are:

• an owner or occupier of agricultural land or enclosed woodland
• an employee of the owner or occupier (authorised by them)
• any other resident on the land

You must meet the General Authorisation criteria and follow its terms and conditions. For example, you cannot shoot female deer over one year old from 1 April to 31 August. You would need to apply for a specific authorisation to do so.

Killing, wounding or injuring wild deer without the legal right to do so is a wildlife crime.

Read the General Authorisation 2023/24 in full

You can use this service to:

• register as a fit and competent deer stalker
• renew your fit and competent status
• update your details

Email

licensing@nature.scot

Telephone

01463 725 364

Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (except public holidays)

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