Firearm Licensing in South Africa: All You Need to Know

Before you may possess a firearm in South Africa, you must first obtain a firearm license from the SAPS. South Africa has a complex and evolving relationship with firearms which can oftentimes become overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with it. In this blog post, we’ll explore what you need to know about firearm licensing in South Africa.

Types Of Firearm Licensing in South Africa

These are the most common types of firearm licenses in South Africa.

Section 13 License: This license is for self-defence firearms and is probably the most common type of license application. To obtain one, you must demonstrate a genuine need for a self-defence firearm. You’ll need to supply crime statistics for the area in which you reside, and undergo background checks to ensure you’re fit to possess a self-defence firearm.

Section 15 License: This license covers firearms used for occasional sports shooting and/or occasional hunting. Applicants need to demonstrate their need for the firearm for these occasional sports. An invitation to a upcoming hunt needs to be provided along with your motivation for a license submitted under occasional hunting.

Section 16 License: This license covers firearms used for dedicated sports shooting and/or dedicated hunting purposes. Applicants need to be members of recognised shooting or hunting associations, and need to meet certain requirements. These include obtaining your dedicated sports shooter or dedicated hunter status by means of a written test and practical shoot through a certified federation.

Before You Can Apply, You’ll Need To Complete These Steps

Competency Tests: To apply for a firearm license, you must first pass the prescribed training manual/s. These are completed through an accredited training provider, and evaluate your knowledge of firearms, safe handling, and legal responsibilities. They include both a written and practical assessment for either Handgun (Training Manual 119649), Manually Operated Rifle (Training Manual 119651), Self-Loading Rifle (Training Manual119650), or Shotgun (Training Manual 119652), along with the Knowledge Of The Firearms Control Act 60/2000 Legal Test (Training Manual 117705).

SAPS Competency: To apply for your SAPS issued competency, you’ll need to submit a SAPS 517 Form to your DFO (designated firearms officer). This must include the following: a certified copy of your training certificate, a certified copy of your statement of results, practical shoot, a certified copy of your ID, a certified copy of your proof of address, and any supporting documentation to your nearest SAPS office. The process to obtain your SAPS Competency takes around 3 months to complete.

Applying For Your Firearm License in South Africa

The last step is to apply for your firearms license. This is a complex application, and involves many aspects. Firearm licensing in South Africa is a stringent and highly regulated process designed to balance individual rights with public safety. It’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and responsibilities associated with firearm ownership to ensure compliance with the law. If you’re considering owning a firearm in South Africa, it’s advisable to seek our guidance, or guidance through your nearest SAPS branch.

Let Us help You With Your Firearm Application

We offer a comprehensive range of services to assist you in obtaining your firearms license. If you’re looking to apply for a Firearms license in South Africa, GUNLINK are specialists in this process. We help you to compile your application, along with your motivation, and ensure that you have all the correct documentation for your submission to SAPS.