Can Wizards Copy Spells from Other Classes?

Wizards can only copy spells from other classes if the spell is on the wizard spell list and they are capable of casting it, meaning it must be of a level they can prepare, and they must have spell slots of the level of the spell. The Magic Initiate feat allows any class to get a 1st-level spell and 2 cantrips from another class, but the actual spell can only be cast once per long rest, and wizards cannot directly copy spells from other classes’ spell lists into their own spellbook.

Understanding Spell Copying Mechanics

To delve deeper into the nuances of spell copying, it’s essential to understand the mechanics and restrictions placed on wizards and other classes in the context of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) 5th Edition.

Wizard Spell Lists and Schools

Wizards are not restricted by schools of magic when it comes to learning spells; they can learn any spell on the wizard spell list, regardless of the school it belongs to. This flexibility allows wizards to diversify their magical abilities, making them versatile characters in the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Wizards Cast Spells from Other Spellbooks? Yes, but they need to copy the spells into their own spellbook first, as every wizard has their unique shorthand, and deciphering another’s script takes several hours.
2. Can a Wizard Copy a Warlock Spell? A wizard can copy from a ritual book, like a Pact of the Tome Warlock’s, if the spell is on the wizard’s own spell list.
3. Can Wizards Copy Spells from Scrolls? Yes, a wizard can copy a spell from a scroll into their spellbook, with the process involving an Intelligence (Arcana) check.
4. Do Wizards Need a Wand to Cast Spells? In the Harry Potter universe, while a wand is crucial for controlled magic, wandless magic is possible but requires great skill and is not taught at Hogwarts.
5. Can Wizards in D&D 5E Cast Two Spells in One Turn? Generally, no, except for casting a cantrip with a casting time of 1 action after casting another spell.
6. Can Wizards Create Their Own Spells? In the Harry Potter series, creating spells requires great understanding and skill, and the process is dangerous and not commonly undertaken.
7. Why Can’t Young Wizards Use Magic Outside School? The Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery prohibits British witches and wizards under 17 from using magic outside school.
8. Can You Use Wandless Magic in Hogwarts? Wandless magic is not officially taught but can be found in books within the Restricted Section of the Hogwarts Library.
9. Can Wizards Copy Higher-Level Spells? A wizard can copy higher-level spells if they have the spell slots for the level of the spell and can spare the time to decipher and copy it.
10. What Does a Wizard Need to Copy Spells? To copy a spell, a wizard needs spell slots of the spell’s level, time (2 hours per spell level), and must succeed on an Intelligence (Arcana) check.
11. Can Wizards Copy Permanent Spells? If a permanent spell is copied, it becomes a token on the battlefield as the spell resolves.
12. Can You Copy Split Second Spells? There are limitations and specific rules regarding copying spells with Split Second, but triggered abilities can still copy such spells.
13. Can Wizards Copy Druid Spells? Yes, if a spell is on both the druid and wizard spell lists, a wizard can transcribe it.
14. Does Copying a SpellBook Destroy It? When copying from a spell scroll, the scroll is consumed whether the copy is successful or not.
15. Can Wizards Cast Spells Without Saying Them? In Harry Potter, spells can be cast non-verbally with a wand, requiring concentration on the incantation, a technique taught in the sixth year at Hogwarts.