This bill establishes a new "apprentice guide license" for individuals who wish to become hunting or fishing guides but have not yet completed the necessary written and oral board requirements. The new section, RSA 215:10, outlines that applicants must pass a criminal background check and obtain certification in first-aid and CPR before applying for the license. The apprentice guide may engage in guiding activities only when accompanied by a licensed guide who is at least 18 years old. The fees for the apprentice guide license will be determined through rules established under RSA 541-A, as referenced in RSA 215:4. Additionally, the bill specifies that the licensed guide accompanying the apprentice will be fully accountable for any damages or violations committed by the apprentice during guiding activities.

The legislation also stipulates that the apprentice guide license can only be purchased once in an applicant's lifetime and cannot be used as proof of a previous license under RSA 214:23-a, I or II. The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2026. The fiscal impact of the bill is projected to be less than $10,000 for each fiscal year from 2025 through 2028, as determined by the Legislative Budget Assistant, with the Fish and Game Department being the primary agency contacted regarding this legislation.