Firearm Certificate

A firearm certificate is issued by your local police force and covers firearms that are not shotguns, such as rifles, and their ammunition. It sets out exactly which firearms and how much ammunition you may hold, and under what conditions. Requirements and processes can vary by police force and personal circumstances.

Anyone who wishes to possess, buy or acquire a firearm or ammunition covered by section 1 of the Firearms Act 1968. Limited exemptions exist, for example for some approved rifle club activities under supervision. Always check official guidance.

It allows you to hold the specific firearms and quantities of ammunition listed on it, for the 'good reason' you have shown (for example target shooting at an approved club or deer stalking on permitted land), subject to its conditions.

1. Contact your local police force's firearms licensing unit.
2. Complete the application form (in England and Wales, usually Form 201), listing each firearm you want and your good reason for it.
3. Provide referees and photographs as instructed.
4. Provide GP details and complete any medical step required by your force.
5. Supply evidence for your good reason, such as club membership or land permission.
6. Pay the fee and submit your application.
7. Expect checks, interviews and a home visit, including your security arrangements.

• A completed application form from your police force (online or paper)
• Recent passport-style photographs, if your force asks for them
• A countersignatory or referees who know you, as set out on the form
• Your GP's details and consent for the police to contact them. Some forces require a medical proforma first, and your GP may charge for it.
• Details of any previous convictions and any medical conditions the form asks about
• Your proposed secure storage arrangements, such as a gun cabinet
• The application fee
• Evidence of your good reason for each firearm, such as approved club membership or written land permission

Home Office fees for England, Wales and Scotland from 4 June 2026. Fees can change, so check the official source.

It varies between forces, and can take several months. Check your force's published waiting times. HobbyTrade UK cannot guarantee any timescale.

Processing times are estimates and are not guaranteed.

A firearm certificate normally lasts 5 years. Apply to renew with your police force in good time before it expires. Many forces suggest at least 8 weeks ahead.

• You must show a good reason for each firearm. The police set conditions on use, such as where it may be used.
• Firearms and ammunition must be stored securely in line with police requirements.
• You need a variation before acquiring an additional firearm that is not on your certificate.
• Transfers must be to a person entitled to receive them and notified to the police.
• Certain weapons are prohibited and cannot be held on an ordinary certificate.
• HobbyTrade UK does not issue certificates and cannot advise on individual applications.

Always apply directly with the official authority (Your local police force (find it on police.uk)).

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