Shotgun Certificate

A shotgun certificate is issued by your local police force. It allows you to possess, buy and acquire shotguns (as defined in law) and their ammunition. In England, Wales and Scotland the certificate is issued under the Firearms Act 1968. Northern Ireland uses a separate Firearm Certificate system run by the PSNI. Requirements and processes can vary by police force and by your personal circumstances.

Generally, anyone who wants to own or keep a shotgun needs one, even if it is only used for clay or game shooting. Some limited exemptions apply, for example borrowing a shotgun on private land in the presence of the occupier, or shooting at an approved clay ground under certain conditions. Check the official guidance before relying on an exemption.

It allows the holder to possess, buy and acquire shotguns and shotgun cartridges, in line with the conditions on the certificate. It does not cover rifles or other firearms, which need a Firearm Certificate.

1. Find your local police force's firearms licensing unit.
2. Complete the application form (in England and Wales this is Form 201, often online).
3. Arrange your countersignatory and photographs as instructed.
4. Provide GP details and complete any medical step your force requires.
5. Pay the fee and submit the application.
6. Expect background checks and usually a home visit by a firearms enquiry officer, including a check of your storage.
7. If approved, the certificate is posted to you. Follow all conditions printed on it.

• 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

Home Office fees for England, Wales and Scotland from 4 June 2026. GP medical fees, if charged, are extra. Fees can change, so check the official source.

It varies widely between police forces. Many forces publish their current waiting times. HobbyTrade UK cannot guarantee any timescale.

Processing times are estimates and are not guaranteed.

A shotgun certificate normally lasts 5 years. Your force will usually remind you, but it is your responsibility to apply in good time before it expires. Many forces suggest applying at least 8 weeks ahead. You renew with the same police force.

• Shotguns must be stored securely, usually in a suitable locked gun cabinet, and kept out of reach of unauthorised people.
• You must tell the police about changes such as a new address, and record every shotgun you buy or sell.
• Shotguns can only be transferred to a person who is entitled to receive them, and transfers must be notified to the police.
• Some convictions prohibit you from holding a certificate. The police may refuse or revoke one on public safety grounds.
• 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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