Firearms & Security
Temporary firearm authorisations and import/export permits issued through SAPS Central Firearms Registry.
- Temporary Firearm Authorisation
Under Section 21 of the Firearms Control Act, a competent person may be given temporary authorisation to possess another person's licensed firearm — for example on a hunt or during a range training session — for up to 12 months.
View requirements - Temporary Firearm Import / Export Permit
Temporary import or export of a firearm is authorised on a SAPS SAP 520 permit. Apply through SAPS Central Firearms Registry at the port of entry or in advance.
View requirements - How to Get a Firearm Licence in South Africa (by Province & Town)
A South African firearm licence is issued by the SAPS Central Firearms Registry (CFR) under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000. You first pass a competency test through a SAPS-accredited training provider, then apply through the Designated Firearms Officer (DFO) at your nearest SAPS station. Every SAPS station in every province has (or shares) a DFO — you do not travel to Pretoria to apply.
View requirements