I take my kids out without being licensed, this year will be there first "moose hunt", but they are only 8 and 9. When they hit the age of 12 they'll both get the courses done to keep coming out with me.
A Hunter Education course is a single day now and only $60 if done online. There is no real reason not to get the course done before heading out if you are of legal hunting age. Cheaper than the price of gas and lunch.