Firearms
Licensing
The National Hunting and Shooting Association (NHSA) has its activities focused on assisting the busy but enthusiastic hunter and/or sport shooter who cannot always participate in the usual structured activities presented by other highly respected hunting and sports shooting associations in South Africa. Natshoot members participate in natshoot hunting and sports shooting related activities as their time allows them, and where it is most convenient for them to partake in said activities.
Let us Assist You
Acquire a Motivation
You have Two options regarding the writing of a motivation for your licence application – be that for a new licence or for renewal of an existing firearm licence:
Assisted Applications
Third Parties
The following companies can assist you with creating motivations and endorsements:
Legally Armed
Ranyati
Firearm SA
Small Arms Trading
Firearm Solutions
Firearm Serv
ACTCO
REDOT Firearm Solutions
Gerhard and Zarlize
Marksman Arms
& Firearm Training
I.C. Guns
Armament
F.A.I Motivations
Gunlicence
Martin & De Beer
Incorporated
You write your own motivation
Examples
Example of layout of Generic Motivation for Successful Application (adapt layout and Annexures as it fits your own situation)
Example Motivation: Self-defence (adapt layout and Annexures as it fits your own situation)
Example Motivation: Sport Shooting or Hunting Rifle
Example Motivation: Sport Shooting Handgun
Example Motivation: Shotgun (Sport Shooting)
Example Motivation: Shotgun (Hunting)
Example Motivation: Semi-auto Rifle/Carbine
Example Motivation: Renewal of Firearm Licence (Generic)
Applying for an Endorsement
PLEASE READ THE NHSA POLICY ON THE ISSUE OF ENDORSEMENTS BEFORE YOU APPLY
POLICY – ENDORSEMENTS
APPLYING FOR AN ENDORSEMENT
NOTE: You can apply for an endorsement on the Natshoot app as well
PLEASE READ THE CRITERIA FOR ISSUE OF NATSHOOT ENDORSEMENT FOR THE USE OF SPECIFIC FIREARMS BEFORE YOU APPLY
How to Apply for Endorsement(s):
Step 1: Login to your Member Portal
Step 2: On the Home page, Go to Endorsements
Step 3: Select “Apply for Endorsement” – Complete all fields required in the page
* Note: Without a motivation attached to the application, no endorsement can be issued (only the written motivation, not all of the supporting documents are required to apply for an endorsement).
The office will notify you via Email when the endorsement has been issued (usually this is a speedy process)
You can download the endorsement from the Documents page on your Member Portal
Natshoot issues Endorsements in for the following uses of specific firearms
PLEASE NOTE:
Endorsements issued under our name, are issued strictly against the motivation our member submits with his/her application for an endorsement and has no validity in respect of any other motivation s/he might submit to SAPS (CFR) in application for the licence for that specific firearm.
If a member wants to submit another motivation with his/her licence application than the one against which the endorsement had been issued, s/he must please re-apply for a new endorsement with the changed motivation attached (we are not referring to minute changes in spelling and in formulation).
* Always log out once you are done on your member portal (Cellphone App does not apply here)
Imports / Exports of Guns
(i.e. Hunting in Namibia / Botswana / Swaziland / Zambia / Tanzania)
New License Applications
Procedures New Licence Applications
Reasons for refusing firearm licence applications
SAPS(CFR) REASONS FOR REFUSING LICENCE APPLICATIONS
Dear Member,
Read the common reasons SAPS(CFR) give when refusing licence applications and ascertain that your motivation(s) cover the reasons for refusal mentioned in this CFR document.
Procedures for Application for New Firearm Licences Revisited
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
- 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) – read How To Apply Here
- 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 (see examples of motivations HERE);
- Remember to also complete the Safe-form and attach same to your application – download HERE (make sure you read page 2 of this document)
Motivation
We advise that you rather write too much than too little – be complete in all instances (see our proposed layout for a motivation Generic Motivation for Successful Application)
- 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). In your motivation indicate what each of your firearms are used for and show where the new firearm fits into the “profile” of the firearms you have in your safe.
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 official SAPS form HERE (make sure you read page 2 of this document)
Dwelling Security Details
- Full details of your security facilities for example if there is an alarm, how it operates and whether it is linked to armed response; what crime is likely in your area; height of walls around the property; is there an electric fence or dogs; are there burglar bars on the windows and burglar gates on the outside doors. A series of photographs would be preferable.
Education, Training & Previous Experience
- Details of any firearm training that you may have received, supported where appropriate with certificates. Also details of accumulated experience with photos.
- A comprehensive history of your shooting and hunting career and exposure, with photographs where available (include official hunting and shooting logbooks).
- Proof that you have shot or hunted at various locations, supported by photographs or testimonials or statements from fellow hunters and or landowners, photos of medals, certificates.
- If you participated in any competitive shooting activities furnish proof and confirmation thereof.
Testimonials
- Optional – a testimonial from a person with whom you have hunted who can confirm that you do hunt and is safe with firearm (or do sports-shooting with).
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 try calling 012-353-6111 (CFR’s helpline – they respond well early evening)
NHSA Members needing further advice or help are welcome to contact the NHSA Firearms Licensing Helpline & Endorsements (choose option 4 after calling the main number – 087-945-3355 – 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 can be, or are given, nor implied.
Legal Advisory: Firearm Licences (Barrel Changes)
FIREARM LICENCES: ADVISORY NOTICE AUGUST 2016
Dear member,
We suggest that if you want to do a barrel or calibre change to a firearm that you rather submit an application for a new licence (SAPS 271 form) than to use the change of information form the SAPS suggest. With the SAPS 271 the barrel or calibre change gets logged onto the CFR system and the progress of the application is much better traceable. Your decision though.
CFR has had some serious issues with printing of licences as it seems some of their printers were out of operation. Please keep on calling your DFO if you are waiting for a licence to be handed to you. The only other way is to put your lawyer onto them in terms of the PAJA Act if you have been waiting for more than 4 months
The SA Hunters and SA Dealers court cases have apparently been added together (or might be), and the court date moved back to October this year. We shall keep you informed of any development emanating from that court case(s).
Please be sure that you enter activities and postal shooting scores on your personal Natshoot web pages, as it will be seriously important to show participation when licences for sport and hunting rifles, shotguns, and handguns come up for renewal in the near future. There is clear indication that CFR will not easily renew licences for these kinds of firearms if adequate proof of use of the specific firearm as per the original motivation, cannot be shown.
Please remember that renewals must be handed in 90 days before the expiry date of the specific licence.
Closing date for submission of dedicated activities on your personal Natshoot web page is 31 December 2016 – please be sure to read Newsletter Vol. 12(07) in this regard – https://portal.natshoot.co.za/nhsa-info/nhsa-newsletters/vol-12-077
Keep on shooting (hunting nearly gone for this year – get a move on!)
Regards
Herman Els
New Licence Application Outstanding for More than Six Months
Dear Member,
A number of our members have new firearm licence applications which are outstanding for longer than six months.
There is a possibility that we can take this issue up with top SAPS (CFR / FLASH) management within the next few weeks.
If your new firearm licence application is outstanding for more than six months (only outstanding for longer than 6 months) – please send an Email to webinfo@natshoot.co.za before 24:00 on Tuesday 12 July 2016 (use only this Email address as Emails in this regard sent to any other Natshoot Email address will not be included on the list):
Provide the following information please:
- ID number, Initials and Surname;
- Full detail of firearm applied for (make, kind [handgun, rifle, shotgun, semi-auto rifle], serial number).
- Indicate intended use of firearm applied for (i.e. self-defence; occasional hunting or sport shooting; dedicated hunting or sport shooting)
- Date and Police station where you submitted the new licence application;
- Attach a readable scanned copy of the receipt you received when submitting the new licence application;
Please do not feel let down if we do not include your name on the list if you do not 100% comply with the required information we need as stated above, as we cannot speak to these people without the facts.
We do not mean to say we shall sort out your problem, but we can surely bring it under top SAPS (CFR) management’s attention. Hopefully they can then expedite the evaluation of your application.
Kind Regards
Herman Els
Log your firearm(s) licence particulars
LOG YOUR FIREARM(s) LICENCE PARTICULARS AND BE NOTIFIED OF RENEWAL DATES IN ADVANCE
We have added a new useful feature to your personal Natshoot web page (see My Firearms), which will automatically remind you of renewal dates for your firearm licences, 120 days before they expire.
Fill out your list of firearms on your personal page, and use this function to your own benefit as it suits you.
The function will be updated and further developed as practice in the use of the function leads us.
Remember; the so-called Old Green Licences are valid and they carry the same legal “weight” as the new white card licences (even for the same firearm) – see NHSA Newsletters Vol 12(25) and Vol 12(26)
Also remember to renew firearm licences 90 days before they expire. Go look now to see what the expiry dates of your licences are!
If you renew before 90 days of expiry, the “current” licence remains valid until SAPS have dealt with your renewal application (remember to carry a copy of the renewal receipt with you when travelling when the licence has expired to prove that you have applied for renewal).
If you renew within the 90 day period, we suggest you might consider rather handing in the particular firearm with a dealer, and then apply for a new licence as if you are buying that firearm from the dealer. Reason being that when application for renewal is made within the 90 day period, SAPS procedures are that you have to hand in the firearm with SAPS to be kept in a SAPS Section 13 store until the application has been finalised (we are not certain that this is what you want). Remains your decision though.
If your licence has expired the FCA indicates that you have to hand in the firearm for destruction. But remember the old green licences are legally valid.
Remember to also apply for renewal of your competency if you only have one firearm in a category (i.e. handgun, rifle, shotgun) as the specific competency also expires with the licence.
If you have multiple firearms in a specific category, SAPS are implementing a system whereby you must only renew the category competency when the longest outstanding licence of the category firearm expires (i.e. handgun, rifle, shotgun).
The fact that you might have one competency certificate on which it says you are competent to own handguns, rifles and shotguns, is for SAPS’s administrative ease. As one has to renew competency, one could very well then have three separate competency certificates (one for handguns, one for rifles, and one for shotguns), as all renewal dates for your category competencies might not be the same.
Hopefully the coming SA Hunters court case to be heard in August, will result a much more meaningful system for renewal of firearm licences. Watch this space as we shall notify you of the outcome of that court case when the time comes
Shoot straight when you go hunting or when you go target shooting and enjoy every moment thereof !!
Kind Regards
NHSA Team
Simultaneous Submission of Competency and Licence Applications
It seems some of our members mis-understood the contents of the earlier Newsletter with similar heading.
Sometimes people who apply for a new licence for the first time, at the same time applies for competency for that class of firearm for the first time too.
All SAPS is saying with the Directive is that they will no longer accept such applications at the same time (as from today’s date). Thus applications on the forms SAPS 517 (first time Competency application) and SAPS 271 (new licence applications).
You thus have to submit your first time competency application for a specific firearm class first, and once you have received this competency, you can apply for the new licence.
For first time licence applicants this is how we have advised our members to act all along.
If this procedure does not apply to your situation the Directive has no bearing on you.
However, take note that the Directive does not refer to renewal of competency (form SAPS 517(g)) or to renewal of licences (form SAPS 518(a)), which are about to expire.
If you have only one handgun for Self Defence, the competency is valid for 5 years just like the Section 13 licence is valid for 5 years for that specific handgun.
This then means you will have to renew handgun competency and the Section 13 handgun licence at the same time (if you only have one handgun – if you have two then your handgun competency goes with the section 15 or 16 handgun licence which expires first).
Do not allow your DFO to say you may not hand in the application for renewal of competency and renewal of a licence at the same time, otherwise you will be late with your renewal application.
The directive is very clear on this, and we suggest you take a copy of our Newsletter Vol. 12(03) in which the Directive is quoted, with you when you have to simultaneously submit an application for renewal of competency and renewal of a licence. Show your DFO the specific reference to Forms SAPS 517 and SAPS 271 in the Directive.
We foresee a lot of frustration here. Remain calm and do not, under no circumstances, be in a “fighting mood” on this one – it will only be to your own detriment !!
We cannot see this Directive to be in place long as the implications as described above will cause mayhem with DFOs and applicants alike. Unless the promised clarification Directive makes this position very clear re renewal of competency and of licences
We shall keep you abreast of any further happenings in this regard
Kind Regards
Herman Els
First Round Renewal of White Card Licences
A number of our members’ firearm licences, which were renewed in the transition period from the 1969 to 2000 Firearms Acts, will have to be renewed this year. The transition period refers to the time when you had to apply to renew your old green licences to the white card licences issued under the so-called new Act (remember all the long queues and all the frustrations and long-long wait for the issuing of licences ??).
This process of renewal of licences will for the next four years be in operation again, as Section 15 and Section 16 licences renewed in the transition period are only valid for 10 years. Many self-protection licences, valid for 5 years, have already expired.
Yes it is already 10 years since the first implementation of the Firearms Control Act (Act 60 of 2000).
Remember that you have to submit your renewal application(s) 90 days before the expiry date of your white card licences. DO NOT get caught out with licences which have expired please ! Please do not get yourself into a position where you are forced to hand in your firearm because you are in effect illegally in possession of it.
And no the old green licences are not valid for firearms for which you have already been issued with a white card licence. Green licences are only valid for those firearms of which the licences were not renewed during the transition period. One cannot make oneself subject to the New Act (2000) by renewing one’s licences in the transition period, and then claim that the old green licence issued under the 1969 Act will still be valid for such firearms.
Your existing licence remains valid until SAPS renews your licence – no matter how long that might take (the renewed licence(s) will also be valid for a period of 10 years).
Please ascertain that you make a copy of the receipt for the payment(s) you will have to make for renewal(s), and that you at all times carry this copy of the receipt with your expired licence as proof that you have applied for renewal. Otherwise it can be taken that you are illegally in possession of a firearm as the licence has expired (that is especially true for instances where you might be stopped in a road block of some sorts and you are asked if you have firearms in your possession)
You can be certain that the following documents will have to accompany your renewal application(s):
Correctly completed SAPS 518(a) form (download from Firearms Licensing Page on the NSA website);
- Copy of your ID;
- Copy of proof of residence;
- Copies of all relevant training certificates;
- Copy of your competency certificate(s);
- Proof of paid-up membership of NSA (download from your personal NSA webpage) (and of other accredited associations);
- Copy of NSA dedicated status certificate(s)
- Copy of NSA confirmation of current validity of dedicated status (download from your personal NSA webpage);
- Proof of membership of clubs;
- Motivation explaining purpose and use of firearm, which includes a large section containing proof of use of firearm for purposes it was originally motivated for (don’t fold here – attach copies of receipts for hunting trips, of permissions to hunt and transport venison, letters from game ranchers saying that you hunted with them, photos of hunting trips with dates, shooting range registers, score cards, photos of you on the shooting range, etc.) (download your NSA shooting register as well as your activities register from your personal NSA webpage, when that function becomes functional shortly);
- NSA endorsement of your application and motivation.
PLEASE DO NOT FIND YOURSELF AT FAULT WITH THIS BY LAW REQUIRED PROCESS
GO AND LOOK WHAT THE EXPIRY DATES OF ALL YOUR LICENCES ARE RIGHT NOW!!
Renewal of Firearm Licences
Procedures Renewal of Firearm Licences
Procedures for Renewal of Firearm Licences Revisited
RENEWAL OF LICENCES: PROCESS EXPLAINED
A number of our members’ firearm licences, which were renewed in the transition period from the 1969 to 2000 Firearms Acts, came up for renewal since 2015.
The transition period refers to the time when you had to apply to renew your old green licences to the white card licences issued under the so-called new Act (remember all the long queues and all the frustrations and long-long wait for the issuing of licences ??).
This process of renewal of licences will thus be a continuous process from 2015, as Section 15 and Section 16 licences renewed in the transition period are only valid for 10 years. Many self-protection licences, valid for 5 years, have already expired.
Remember that you have to submit your renewal application(s) 90 days before the expiry date of your white card licences. DO NOT get caught out with licences which have expired, please ! Please do not get yourself into a position where you are forced to hand in your firearm because you are in effect illegally in possession of it.
If you apply before 90 days of the expiry date, your existing licence remains valid until SAPS renews your licence – no matter how long that might take (the renewed licence(s) will also be valid for the period the original licence was valid for, i.e. 5 years or 10 years).
Please ascertain that you make a copy of the receipt for the payment(s) you will have to make for renewal(s) and that you at all times carry this copy of the receipt with your expired licence as proof that you have applied for renewal on time. Otherwise it can be taken that you are illegally in possession of a firearm as the licence has expired (that is especially true for instances where you might be stopped in a roadblock of some sorts and you are asked if you have firearms in your possession)
The following documents will have to accompany your renewal application(s):
- Correctly completed SAPS 518(a) form;
- Copy of your ID;
- Copy of proof of residence;
- Copies of all relevant training certificates (those of the Proficiency Trainer and your POSLEC, or SASSETA, or PFTC Statment of Results certificate);
- Copy of your competency certificate(s) (Make sure you read our Newsletter Vol. 13(08) on the renewal of Competencies before you renew your firearm licences);
- Copy of existing licence;
- Proof of paid-up membership of NHSA (download from your Personal NHSA Profile Page [see My NHSA Documents] (and of other accredited associations);
- Copy of NHSA dedicated status certificate(s);
- Proof of membership of all the clubs you are a member of;
- Motivation explaining the purpose and use of a firearm, which includes a large section containing proof of use of a firearm for purposes it was originally motivated for (don’t fold here – attach copies of receipts for hunting trips, of permissions to hunt and transport venison, letters from game ranchers saying that you hunted with them, photos of hunting trips with dates, shooting range registers, scorecards, photos of you on the shooting range, etc.) (download your NHSA Activities & Scores Report, as well as your activities, register from your personal NHSA Profile Page);
- NHSA endorsement of your application and motivation.
- Remember to also complete the Safe-form and attach same to your application – download HERE (make sure you read page 2 of this document)
- Two passport photos in colour per firearm
PLEASE DO NOT FIND YOURSELF AT FAULT WITH THIS BY LAW REQUIRED PROCESS
GO AND LOOK WHAT THE EXPIRY DATES OF ALL YOUR LICENCES ARE RIGHT NOW!!
SAPS APPLICATION FORMS TO RENEW FIREARM LICENCES
Application for Renewal of Firearm Licence (SAPS 518(a)
Safe Annexure - Statement of Possession of Correct Safe (include in all your licence applications)
REMEMBER TO RENEW COMPETENCIES AT THE SAME TIME
SAPS (517g) - Application for Renewal of Competency
Annexure A (Affidavit) to Accompany Application for Competency or for Renewal of Competency
(3 people to each fill out the Annexure)
Kind regards
Natshoot Office
Renewal of Competency Revisited
This is a repeat of our Newsletter Vol 13. (04) dated 22-01-2017 and of our 2011, 2013 & 2015 Newsletters on this matter.
It has become progressively clear that SAPS manage the renewal of competencies to coincide with the expiry of the longest outstanding licence of a specific firearm type (i.e. handgun, rifle, shotgun, semi-auto rifle).
You must renew competencies at least 90 days before the expiry date of a specific competency. Remember that each firearm type has its own competency, albeit that all your competencies might be printed on one document.
Competency for Section 13 firearms [self-defence] expires after 5 years. If you have a second handgun under Section 15 or 16, then the handgun competency expires on the date of the longest outstanding handgun licence (if you have a shotgun for self-defence the same applies).
Competency for Section 15 & 16 firearms [occasional hunting and/or sport shooting or dedicated hunting and/or sport shooting] expire on the date of the longest outstanding rifle or shotgun licence you have [Section 9 of Act 28 of 2006]. Or semi-auto for that matter.
We still (and again) advise that our members should rather renew their white credit type competency certificates 90 days before expiry date of said certificate, irrespective of what your DFO indicates to the contrary.
However, if your competency has expired and your renewal thereof is outstanding for longer than 90 days before expiry (and even longer), don’t be too upset.
SAPS is on record at the Hunters-SAPS Consultative Forum and in their own Directive of 7 January 2011, that they will not act upon any person applying for late renewal of an expired competency certificate due to the chaos the SAPS directive of 7 January 2011 created in this regard.
All of us are aware of people who have been turned away by their DFOs when they wanted to renew their competency certificates with words to the effect; “…you don’t need to apply now, only when your longest outstanding licence expires…”
So, in the space on the form for renewal of competency (form SAPS 517g) where they ask why you did not submit your renewal application for competency in time you state that the member in the SAPS office turned you away last time when you wanted to submit your renewal application, and said that it was not necessary just yet. You further state that you have been informed by your Association (NHSA) that you must renew your credit card type competency certificate as it has an expiry date printed on it for you to stay inside the law.
For renewal of competency you will need two declarations by friends or people you know regarding your character to be attached to your application. Also, attach copies of your training certificates and of the SAQA underwriter (POSLEC, SASSETA, SAPFTC for Knowledge of the Act, Rifles, Handguns, Semi-autos & Shotguns – or whatever your training entailed).
Character witnesses should make special reference to non-aggression, low or moderate alcohol use, exceptional firearm safety and responsibility, and to responsibility of person in every day and in family life.
Please make sure that you renew your competency certificate as soon as possible if it has expired, or submit your application for its renewal in time, if it is still going to expire. We suggest one stays within the confines of the Firearm Control Act, 2000, as it is absolutely to one`s own benefit.
The situation regarding members who have been issued with the A4 type of paper competency certificate which does not have an expiry date on it, is not clear due to the Act referring to an expiry date while there is no such date printed on the A4-type competency document.
We advise that one should use the issuing date as the start date and count 5 years or 10 years from there.
Remember your DFO must take in your application for renewal of competency irrespective of what s/he says as it is you who want to remain inside the law. Ask him/her to please help you achieve that.
SAPS will not accept applications for a new licence and for a new competency on the same time. Hand in your application for a new competency first. When you receive that, you can apply for the new licence for that specific type of firearm.
However, one may hand in application for renewal of competency and renewal of a licence at the same time.
SAPS (517g) - Application for Competency
Aansoek vir Bevoegdheid - SAPS (517)
SAPS (517g) - Application for Renewal of Competency
Annexure A (Affidavit) to Accompany Application for Competency or for Renewal of Competency
(3 people to each fill out the Annexure)
Renewal of Competency: Length of Validity and Expiry Date
Dear Member,
This is a repeat of our Newsletter Vol. 13(08) dated 03-03-2017
There is some confusion surrounding the validity of competencies and when these should be renewed.
It seems the confusion in this regard has to a large extent been specific to the Western Cape, where some of our members’ licence renewal applications were refused because their related competency was not renewed at the same time the licence was renewed, despite the competency still being valid (not expired).
We can only think that this practice in the Western Cape might be related to a probable misinterpretation of the amendments to section 10 of the Firearms Control Act, issued under the Amendment Act of 2006 (Act 28 of 2006) (see below). Some DFOs in the Western Cape went so far as to indicate that all competencies were only valid for 5 years, and that these should all thus be renewed on time.
The facts surrounding the issue of competencies and their renewal, thus needs to be revisited.
Although one may have been issued with a competency certificate which indicates that one may hold a handgun, and/or rifle, and/or shotgun, and/or semi-auto rifle (all printed on one A4 document or on a white card), competency in actual fact relates to each category of firearm one may own, on its own. Factually SAPS should have issued one with a seperate competency certificate for each category of firearm for which one applied to be declared competent (i.e. one for your handgun(s), one for your rifle(s), one for your shotgun(s), and one for your semi-auto rifle(s)).
One may thus currently hold one document indicating all one’s competencies. But over time, one may be issued with a separate competency certificate for each category of firearm one may own, every time one has to renew a specific competency, as one does not necessarily have to renew one’s competencies for all categories of firearms one may own, at the same time.
Section 10(2) of the Firearms Control Act (FCA – Act 60 of 2000) was amendment in 2006 (Amendment Act 28 of 2006) replacing the original 5 years of validity of all competency certificates, with the stipulation reading as follows: “…A competency certificate …remains valid for the same period of validity as the period … in respect of the licence to which the competency certificate relates…”.
This then actually means that one’s competency for a category of firearm (i.e. handgun, rifle, shotgun, semi-auto rifle), expires on the date of the longest outstanding licence of that category of firearm one owns.
If one has only one handgun and it is licensed for self-defence, one’s handgun competency is valid for 5 years only as one’s handgun licence under section 13 is valid for 5 years only; with both application for renewal of licence and competency to be handed in at least 90 days before the licence expires.
If one has only one shotgun and it is licensed for self-defence, one’s shotgun competency is valid for 5 years only as one’s shotgun licence under section 13 is valid for 5 years only; with both application for renewal of licence and competency to be handed in at least 90 days before the licence expires.
If one has a handgun (or shotgun) for self-defence (section 13), and one or more handguns for sport shooting (or shotguns for sport shooting or hunting) (section 15 or 16), one’s handgun competency (or shotgun competency) expires on the date of one’s sport shooting handgun licence (or shotgun licence) with the longest outstanding expiry date. One’s application for renewal of one’s handgun competency (or shotgun competency) must thus be handed in with the application for renewal of one’s longest outstanding handgun licence (or shotgun licence) (at least 90 days before the longest outstanding licence expires).
The same applies to manually operated rifles (bolt or lever, or pump actions), and semi-auto rifles one holds licences for under section 15 and/or 16. The relevant category of firearm’s competency expires on the date of the longest outstanding licence of that category of firearm (rifle or semi-auto rifle). One’s application for renewal of the relevant competency must thus be handed in with the application for renewal of one’s longest outstanding licence for that category of firearm (at least 90 days before the longest outstanding licence for the specific category of firearm expires).
When one wants to apply for a licence for any category of firearm for the first time, one must first apply for that category of firearm’s competency, and receive it, before one may hand in the application for the licence for that specific new firearm (first time application).
However, one may hand in an application for a renewal of a licence and for the renewal of the relevant competency at the same time.
The process and procedures related to the application for competency, is explained HERE
The Amendment Act of 2006 (28 of 2006) also added a new section 10(3) to the FCA, which relates to competency to own muzzle loading firearms, and which addition reads as follows: “…A competency certificate relating to a muzzle loading firearm lapses ten years after its date of issue…”. Renewal of competency to own a muzzle loader (no licence required) must thus be submitted every ten years (at least 90 days before the competency expires).
It seems the addition of this new section might have been the source of misunderstanding in the Western Cape, where it seems SAPS wants one to apply for renewal of the relevant competency every time one applies for renewal of a related firearm licence.
The validity of firearm licences (section 27) was also amended in the Amendment Act of 2006 (Act 28 of 2006) to read as follows:
Section | Type of licence or permit | Period of validity |
13 | Licence to possess firearm for self-defence | Five years (no change) |
14 | Licence to possess restricted firearm for self-defence | Two years (no change) |
15 | Licence to possess firearm for occasional hunting and sports-shooting | Ten years (no change) |
16 | Licence to possess firearm for dedicated hunting and/or dedicated sport shooting | Ten years (no change) |
16A | Licence to possess a firearm for professional hunting | Ten years (no change) |
17 | Licence to possess firearm in private collection | Ten years (no change) |
18 | Permit to possess ammunition in private collection | Ten years (no change) |
19 | Licence to possess firearm, and permit to possess ammunition, in public collection | Ten years (was 5 years) |
20 | Licence to possess firearm for business purposes as game rancher and in hunting | Ten years (was 5 years) |
20 | Licence to possess firearm for business purposes other than game rancher and in hunting | Five years (was 2 years) |
We hope this helps our members to better understand the validity or competencies and when to renew same.
Kind regards,
The Natshoot Office
SAPS CRIME STATS
Firearms Act and Regulations
The Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act 60 of 2000 as amended)
English
Download the original Act (60 of 2000) in English with all amendments HERE
Download the original Regulations (2004) in English without amendments HERE
Afrikaans
Laai die oorspronklike Wet (60 van 2000) sonder wysigings HIER AF
Laai die oorspronklike Regulasies (2004) sonder wysigings HIER AF
Additional Links
Safe and Small Arms Range Regulations
All SAPS Licence Application Forms
Uphold dedicated status and build a hunting register for new and renewal of firearm applications
SAPS CRIME STATS
Additional Links
Apply new white licence against green licence
New Competency Application
Application for further competency
New licence applications
Renewal of Competency
Renewal of firearm licences
Afrikaans
Notice of Appeal
Application for storage permit
Incorrect Information
Changes of Circumstances
Change of Address
Application to hold more than 200 rounds
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Regulations regarding safes
SAPS Crime stats
Download all SAPS firearm related application forms from the SAPS website
Answering Firearm Licensing Questions
Firearms Licensing Helpline
- I Have Shot a Bad Guy – What Now?
- Legal Position re All Firearm Licences
- Get Insurance for your Firearms – Riflesure – Visit Website
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- COURIER OF FIREARMS
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012 946 2566 – Normal Office hours – 08:30 to 16:30 (Please request to speak to the Firearms Licensing Helpline)
Steps to get a licence for your firearm
- Complete proficiency training (Guidelines)
- Competency: apply to be declared competent to own firearms (Explanation of process)
- Read our Newsletters explaining all current aspects of competencies HERE
- Apply for a licence to possess a firearm (Guidelines)
OTHER IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF FIREARMS LICENSING:
- Most Important Aspects of the FCA.
- Categories of firearm licences (Information)
- Firearms for self-protection (Information)
- Can I Apply for a Firearm Licence if I am not yet 21 years of age
- Renewal of firearm licences (Guidelines)
- Renewal of competency (Guidelines)
- Firearm Safes & Safe custody (Regulation 86)
- Declaration in terms of your safe (Statement of Possession of Correct Safe) (include in all your licence applications)
- Application for licence denied – Appeal (Guidelines)
- Validity of so-called old green licences (The Legal Position)
- Inheritance of firearms (Information)
- Possession of ammunition (Information)
- Firearms and self defence – Criminal Law (Information)
- Amount of Propellant for Reloading of Own Ammunition (The Regulation)
- Firearms Safety is Not Just for beginners
- NHSA on Safe Handling of Ammunition
Green Licences to White Licences
PROCEDURES FOR CONVERTING GREEN LICENCES TO WHITE LICENCES
- If you only have green licences for your firearms (green licences are also those licences pasted in blue and green ID-books), you MUST go to your Designated Firearms Officer (DFO) at your closest police station and make sure which of your firearms are still licensed only with green licences.
- Many people did apply for white licences in the transition period (2005 to 2009) but never received white licence cards (some have forgotten that they had applied for white licences). Even if you never received a white licence but the SAPS system shows that they had issued you with a white licence (or licences), your firearm(s) are now licenced with a white licence (SAPS do not recognise the green licence of that firearm any more).
- Make sure that the white licences mentioned in 2 above, are still valid (even if you do not have the licence card in your possession or never received it). If the SAPS system shows that you have a white licence which is still valid, and you do not have a white card licence for that firearm, ask your DFO to request a re-print of that licence(s).
- If any of your white licences mentioned in 2 above have lapsed (even if you do not have a white licence card for it or never received same), you can still participate in the current amnesty which runs to 31 January 2021. It is the only manner of getting that firearm licenced on your name again. Read our suggested procedure for participation in the current amnesty in this Newsletter.
- Understand the different categories of white licences (includes what dedicated status means) – read HERE
- Understand what Proficiency Training is – read HERE
- Understand How to Apply for Competency – read HERE
- If you have more than four green licences (or a semi-auto rifle or semi-auto shotgun with only a green licence), you need dedicated status to own more than 4 firearms when you transfer your green licences to white licences. You can read the procedure for applying for dedicated hunter and or dedicated sports-person status with Natshoot.
- Understand the procedure to apply for a new white licence – read HERE
- When submitting new white licence applications against your green licences, take this Directive of the National Commissioner of Police with you so that your DFO can see that application for a new white licence can be done and that this is an order of the highest police official (albeit dated 2016) – show your DFO paragraph 7 of the Directive which you must download HERE. DO NOT let your DFO tell you that you have to participate in the current amnesty if you want to transfer your green licences to white licences.
- We are aware that DFOs are not always sure of the correct procedures of how to transfer green licences to white licences and that they do not know which application forms applicants must use. We suggest you fill in both an Application for a New Licence (download SAPS 271 form here) and an Application for Renewal of Licence in terms of the Previous Act (download SAPS 517e form here) and take both completed forms with you so that the DFO can take the form s/he wants to take when you apply to transfer your green licence(s) to white licence(s). Also fill out a Correct Safe Declaration and submit with your application(s) (download form here)
- Currently, however, we suggest you make sure of the status of all your licences (are they only green or are they only white), and that you have the correct and valid competency to apply for new licences for the firearms you have only green licences for. Remember one needs a valid competency when one applies for a new licence. We shall inform members of the correct SAPS procedure for transfer of green licences to white licences when SAPS issue a Directive in this regard.
Firearm Licensing FAQs
Many people think the processes attached to the firearms licensing procedures are to difficult and tiresome to complete. This is, however, only true if one is NOT serious about one’s firearms ownership.
The how to of Firearms Licensing.
