Well some info from Belgium. Before you can put your hunting license in your pocket you need to be 18 yaers old. From 18 yaers old you are a candidate hunter, first you have to pass a written examen. The first hunting examen in Belgium was in april 1978. After this you have 3 practical tests, 1. security about handling guns 2. shotgun test at the trap range 3. rifle shooting. I started hunting in our little country in 1979 and it never stopted.
Cheers, greetings from Belgium, Marc.