APPLY FOR A FIREARM LICENCE (to privately own a firearm)
When applying for a new firearm licence it is advised that the following steps be followed:
Download the application form (SAPS 271) HERE – scroll down the page and click on the relevant pdf-file to download);
Complete the form in black ink – make sure your write clearly – be sure to mark the relevant blocks with an X (nothing else).
Ascertain that you complete all relevant sections of the form – double check if you have filled out all required fields.
Download the official SAPS Checklist for New Applications and see that you comply with what they state on that form - also download SAPS crime stats for your area (application for firearm for self-protection)
You will need copies of the following documents to attach to your application:
Note: Do not attach original documents to your application under any circumstance as you may need these again – make copies of all relevant documents and take the originals with you when you go to submit your application – the DFO will certify all copies attached to your application when you show him/her the originals.
- Copy of your ID x 2
- ID Photos x 2
- Copy of your Competency Certificate;
- Copies of your proficiency training certificates issued by your accredited training provider;
- Copies of your POSLEC, SASSETA, or PFTC certificates (so-called Statement of Results) – confirming the validity of your proficiency training (if you do not have POSLEC, SASSETA or PFTC Statement of Results certificates, you will have to re-do your proficiency training with a PFTC accredited training provider - please make sure the trainer is accredited with PFTC);
- Copy of an electricity account not older than three months to prove you live at the address you provide on the application form;
- Two colour passport photographs of yourself, which are not older than 3 months.
- Copies of proof of current paid-up membership of all accredited associations and/or shooting clubs you belong to;
- Copies of your dedicated status certificates (either as hunter or as sports-person [or both]) if relevant;
- Copy of an endorsement for the firearm (NHSA issues same to members who apply on their profile pages)
- In the case of an application for a hunting firearm an invitation or statement from a game ranch owner that you may hunt on his farm – or that you do so regularly (photo copies of the front pages of SA Hunter, Game & Hunt or Magnum, with the different hunting opportunities advertised in that month's journal, can also be attached and pointed out as a myriad of hunting opportunities you have access to, as you do not only hunt on one farm);
- A full and complete motivation stating the purpose and need for the firearm you want the licence for.
Motivation
We advise that you rather write too much than too little – be complete in all instances
- A primary motivation setting out the reason why you wish to obtain the firearm and explain fully the background, and reasons. State the description or type of the firearm applied for in respect of the motivation (bearing in mind that the officials may not know the difference between a Holland & Holland worth R500,000K and a Howa worth much less). If, for instance, it is a semi-auto shotgun or rifle (you must be a dedicated hunter or sports-person), motivate (e.g. recoil reasons, female shooter and attach supporting evidence from an SME (Subject Matter Expert) - thus be detailed in your technical explanation.
- Always explain in detail all exercises you will be participating when applying for sport shooting firearms - and explain your battery - why the firearms you already own, cannot do what the new one can (must);
- Provide additional and special motivation in respect of the firearm. Explain any specific and specialized technical specifications of the firearm that necessitates the acquisition. Motivate fully, supported by documentation from experts, why you need it. Also provide in full sentimental reasons such as a family heirloom with photos.
- In the event that the specific firearm duplicates an existing firearm calibre, detailed reasons as to why such acquisition is necessary- i.e. you already own a .308 for hunting and now need one for target shooting (bench of Bisley) which will be set-up specifically for that reason. This detailed motivation should be supported by an endorsement from the NHSA.
Endorsement
An endorsement confirming the applicability of the calibre and firearm for the stated purpose it will be used, from NHSA, has become a prerequisite. SAPS is on record as stating that an endorsement is of high value in their evaluations for awarding firearm licences - read How To Apply Here.
Additional aspects to consider for inclusion in your motivation
Licensed Firearms
- List details of all your currently licensed firearms with indication of their use
- Attach copies of all your existing firearm licenses (take originals with you for certification of copies by DFO).
Details of Firearm applied for
- A copy of the relevant invoice to confirm purchase of the specific firearm being applied for (if you have or if new one).
- General description of firearm, special features, market value (if significant), sentimental value (of heirloom), type of action (i.e. bolt action), the barrel configuration, etc. (include photo if available)
- Detailed explanation of special features related to application (e.g. Purdey vintage gun, double rifle vs. magazine rifle and why, killing power of calibre, explanation of varminting load, wildcat loads, retro chokes).
- List all intended species for which the specific firearm will be used, with explanations where possible (e.g. .375 needed for buffalo; 3-inch magnum special goose gun for spurwing geese).
- Explain where in battery the specific firearm will fit – which disciplines it will be used for in sports-shooting.
- For sport-shooting - explain in which exercises you will participate and attach official copies of description of such exercises - describe why the specific firearm is suited to the exercise.
Storage/Safe Details
- Give a full description of your firearm safe supported where appropriate, with documentation and photographs to show its nature, type and how and where it is bolted to the wall and/or floor, with SABS certificate or certificate from the manufacturer/seller (if available).
- Download your Safe Statement HERE
Dual Licence (Additional Licence)
People who live under the same roof may apply to both hold licences for one firearm they may both use
The person who will be the additional licence holder just ticks the block for addition licence on the SAPS 271 form
It is best to motivate the use of the specific firearm the same for both parties
Both parties each receive a white licence with particulars of the firearm printed on both cards (obviously with own name and ID number and own licence number on back)
One can have the licence under section 16 and the other under section 15.
Submission of application
As everything in life, neatness and preciseness counts a lot of marks in the eyes of the evaluator – submit a neatly bound and complete set of documents – it’s our experience that this already makes a good impression.
Number you pages in the top right-hand corner (i.e. 1/25, etc.)
Make a copy of your full application – applications get lost – then you can furnish a duplicate as you have the receipt to prove that you handed in your original application.
What you must make certain to obtain from the DFO
A receipt proving that you have paid the relevant amounts as this also proves that you have handed in your application.
Try and get a completed SAPS 523 form from your DFO – it’s not always possible as the people read in your data into their system at another time as what you are at the office – but try – it’s further official confirmation that you have handed in an application.
Contact your DFO one month after submission date to hear if the licence has been approved yet – thereafter do it twice weekly. If you want to get further information on the application you might can use this SAPS link
NHSA Members needing further advice or help are welcome to contact the NHSA Firearms Licensing Helpline 012 946 2566 ask for the during office hours
This fact sheet is an advisory service of the NHSA for its members and is produced in good faith based on available information at time of compilation. Neither the Association nor the compilers accept any responsibility whatsoever, directly or indirectly, for the veracity of any information provided or not-provided.
No guarantees regarding the awarding of firearm licensing are given or implied.
