Steps to obtain a firearm licence in South Africa

Obtaining a firearm license in South Africa is a structured process, governed by the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, which emphasizes responsible gun ownership. 

Contrary to popular misconceptions, firearms are not inherently dangerous; rather, safety and responsibility lie with the person handling them. For South Africans who meet the requirements, here’s how you can start your journey toward lawful firearm ownership.

Reasons for Owning a Firearm

There are several reasons to pursue a firearm license, depending on your needs and interests. These include:

Self-defense: Suitable for private citizens and often involves handguns or pump-action shotguns.

Sport shooting: For occasional or dedicated sport shooting, which can involve handguns, shotguns, or rifles.

Hunting: Using manually operated rifles, shotguns, and specific handguns.

Security and Law Enforcement: Firearms, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles, used by professionals in the field.

Collecting: For both private and public collections, encompassing various firearm types.

The Licensing Process

Training at the Firearms Academy

Starting with training is essential, and you don’t need to own a firearm to begin. The process at a certified firearms academy generally follows these steps:

Orientation Session: Attend an orientation to learn about firearm ownership and responsibilities.

Registration and Study Materials: Register at the academy and receive your training manuals.

Open-Book Assessment: Complete a formative, open-book assessment at home.

Closed-Book Test and Practical Assessment: Book an appointment to take the closed-book test and practical assessment at the academy.

Certification: If you are found competent, the academy will issue a training certificate and an endorsement from the Professional Firearm Trainers Council.

Documentation for SAPS: These certificates are required by the SAPS when applying for your competency certificate.

The training academy will support you throughout this process and answer any questions you may have.

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

Step 1: Training

Complete your training and obtain a proficiency declaration from an accredited training academy. This qualification is mandatory before applying for a firearm license with the SAPS.

The training period ranges from 1 to 10 days, depending on how many firearm modules you complete and your desired pace.

Step 2: Apply for Competency

Submit your application for the SAPS competency certificate at the nearest police station. The SAPS typically takes around 90 days to approve this certificate.

Step 3: Purchase a Firearm

With your approved competency certificate in hand, you can now buy a firearm within the category for which you trained.

Step 4: Submit Application for Firearm License

Submit your firearm license application to the SAPS Designated Firearms Officer (DFO) at your nearest police station. This process takes approximately another 90 days.

The DFO will notify you once your firearm license card is ready for collection.

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Contributor: Geoffrey Coetzee, Marksman’s Nest, Malmesbury. For more information, contact Marksman’s Nest Firearm Training Centre and Shooting Range via Facebook, call/WhatsApp at 082 717 2197, or visit www.firearmtraining.capetown. Email: info@firearmtraining.capetown.