How to Become a Wildlife Rehabilitator in Florida
State and Federal permits are required before anyone can rehabilitate wildlife. A state permit is required for all wildlife rehabilitation; an additional federal permit is required to rehabilitate migratory (native) birds. These permits do not allow an individual or organization to maintain non-releasable wildlife; additional state and federal permits are mandatory for this.
To learn more about requirements in Florida, visit https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome.asp?Chapter=68A-9 and scroll down to 68A-9.006 Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit.
For permit application and additional information, visit http://myfwc.com/license/captive-wildlife/#rehab
Additionally, if you choose to rehabilitate migratory birds, you will be required to have a migratory bird permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. For information visit: https://www.fws.gov/service/3-200-10b-migratory-bird-rehabilitation
Continuing education is required for renewal of state permits. For approved courses visit https://cwrexam.org/continuing-education/
Other relevant Commission-approved courses may also be used to meet the continuing education requirements; however, courses will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must be submitted for review and approval. CWapps@myfwc.com
USDA Animal Welfare Act Bird Regulations: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/awa/bird-standards
USDA Animal Regulations: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/media/document/17164/file
Responsible Use of Animal Imagery
FWRA’s goal is to promote the use of responsible and professional images of wildlife patients. Images can have a powerful impact on public perception. They should promote professionalism and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). They should never suggest that wild animals could be pets. FWRA endorses the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council’s (IWRC) position statement.
https://theiwrc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Responsible-use-of-animal-imagery-IWRC.pdf