There isn't any state qualification requirement, but there are a couple of federal WMA's that do have a shooting qualification, aka proficiency test. I agree with proficiency tests in principle, but not in fact. Bowhunters need to know how to shoot, certainly, and I wish more people would take part in archery as a regular recreational activity instead of ignoring it until they absolutely HAVE to get the bow out. But proficiency tests are dangerous. They can be designed so that not even world class archers could pass.

Our club has an annual shoot where we set up deer size targets at 30 yards and less for people who want to shoot a qualifying score for a nearby WMA. The minimum qualifying score for 14 targets is 80%, 112 points scored 10-8-5. Most shooters qualify easily, even traditionals. Bump it out to 35 though, or up the minimum to 90% and the number that qualify would be cut by 2/3rds. Bump the distance out to 50 yards and only 100% 10-rings and very few could qualify.

I'd vehemently oppose any proficiency test as a licensing/tag requirement. Just like I vehemently oppose the couch potatos who sit on their duffs all year and drag their bows out a week before opening day. The old "I don't have time to practice" BS is a pure lie. If someone has time to hunt, then they've got time to practice with their bows during the offseason. If it weren't for those people, there would be no need for proficiency tests at all.