How many firearms may I license?

For self-defence the Act generally allows one handgun or shotgun. Dedicated hunters and sport shooters accredited with an association may license more.

I inherited a firearm — what now?

You cannot keep it without your own licence. The executor holds it via the dealer or SAPS while you apply for competency and a licence.

What if my application is refused?

You may appeal in writing to the Firearms Appeal Board within 90 days, and thereafter review the decision in court.

Does my competency expire?

The competency certificate remains valid while you hold a valid licence in that category, but keep training records — you need them for renewals.

Firearms & Security

How to Get a Firearm Licence in South Africa (by Province & Town)

In plain English

A firearm licence in South Africa is issued by the SAPS Central Firearms Register under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000. You must first be declared competent (training plus background checks), then apply for a licence for a specific firearm with a genuine reason — self-defence, hunting, sport shooting or collecting.

View requirements Visit official website

Who needs this permit

Any South African resident over 21 (with limited exceptions) who wants to own a firearm. Each firearm needs its own licence, and you need one competency certificate per category of firearm.

When is it required

Before you take possession of any firearm — buying, inheriting or being given one all require a licence first.

Eligibility

21 years or older (younger applicants possible with compelling reasons, e.g. competitive sport shooters)
South African citizen or permanent resident
No disqualifying convictions, protection orders or declared unfit status
Mentally stable and not dependent on alcohol or drugs
Passed the prescribed training and the SAPS competency test

Documents you need before applying

SAPS 517 competency application with training certificates from an accredited provider
SAPS 271 licence application for the specific firearm
Certified ID copy and proof of residence
Two recent passport photographs
Testimonials from character references
Proof of an installed gun safe that meets SABS/SANS standards
Motivation stating your genuine need for the firearm

Download a printable checklist

A one-page PDF of everything you need to bring with you. Tick items off before you go.

How to apply — step by step

1
Complete accredited training
Do the legal knowledge and firearm handling unit standards at a SASSETA/PFTC-accredited training provider, then pass the practical assessment.
2
Apply for the competency certificate
Submit the SAPS 517 form at your nearest police station's Designated Firearms Officer (DFO). Expect fingerprints and background checks.
3
Buy the firearm and install a safe
You may buy the firearm once competent (the dealer keeps it until licensing), and a police official will inspect your safe during the process.
4
Apply for the licence
Submit the SAPS 271 with your motivation and supporting documents. The DFO forwards it to the Central Firearms Register for a decision.
5
Collect the licence card and firearm
If approved, collect your printed licence card and then take possession of the firearm from the dealer or estate.

Where, how much, how long

Where to apply

The Designated Firearms Officer at your local police station; decisions are made by the Central Firearms Register in Pretoria.

Fees

Modest application fees set by regulation (competency and per-licence fees), plus training, safe and motivation costs which are the real expense.

Processing time

Legally up to 90 working days, but delays beyond that are common — keep your receipt and follow up in writing.

Validity

Self-defence firearms: 5 years. Hunting and sport shooting: 10 years. Renew before expiry — an expired licence makes possession unlawful.

Renewal

Apply at least 90 days before the licence expires. Late renewals are not accepted — an expired licence means the firearm is unlicensed and must be surrendered.

Common mistakes to avoid

Letting a licence lapse — late renewals are refused and the firearm must be surrendered
A weak motivation: 'self-defence' alone without context is a common refusal reason
Buying a firearm before competency is issued and letting the sale lapse
Storing the firearm outside a compliant safe once licensed

Tips to speed up your application

Download every SAPS form from the official SAPS site — agents selling 'guaranteed licences' are a known scam
Keep certified copies of everything you submit, stamped with the date
Use the printable firearm checklist on this site before visiting the station

Official sources

Always confirm the latest requirements and fees on the official website before applying.

Frequently asked questions

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