Firearms License Character Reference Letter Example

Writing a Firearms License Character Reference Letter can sometimes be tricky. If you’re looking for an easy template to structure your personal letter around, simply copy one of our letters below. We’ve written two versions of the same letter – one from a family member, and one from a friend/work colleague – simply pick which is applicable to you!
REMEMBER: You’ll need 3 Character reference letters for a SAPS Competency Application, and 3 Character reference letters if you’re applying for a Section 13 Self-Defence Firearms License.

Character Reference Letter from a Family Member

Name:
ID Number:
Address:
Contact Number:
Date:

Attention: Designated Firearms Officer

Dear Sir/Madam,
I (full names & surname), with (ID number), hereby declare that (full names & surname), with (ID number),is my (nature of relationship). Our relationship has spanned (state years), and (state if you lived in the same house or if you often saw each other at a family member’s house).
(name of applicant) has never shown any aggressive tendencies, and has always been a person with sober habits and sound mind. He/she is not moody in nature, and shows no tendency or signs of medical or emotional instability. He/she displays respect for his/her family and friends, and in facing challenges, he/she approaches them with empathy and compassion, always mindful of the impact his/her decisions may have on those around him/her.

There are no reasons why (name of applicant) should not be granted a firearm license. He/she has always displayed responsible firearm use, and understands the responsibility that comes with such ownership.

Should you require any further information, please contact me on (contact number).

Kind regards,
(your name)

Character Reference Letter from a Friend/Work Colleague

Name:
ID Number:
Address:
Contact Number:
Date:

Attention: Designated Firearms Officer
Dear Sir/Madam,
I (full names & surname), with (ID number), hereby declare that (full names & surname), with (ID number), is my (nature of relationship). Our relationship has spanned (state years), and (state how and where you met).

(name of applicant) has always exhibited a lack of aggressive tendencies and irrational actions, and maintains a lifestyle characterised by sobriety. (he/she) is of sound mind, and demonstrates no indications of medical or emotional instability. (name of applicant) not only harbours respect for family and friends, but also approaches challenges with empathy and compassion, always mindful of the potential repercussions of (his/her) decisions on those around (him/her).
There exist no compelling grounds to withhold a firearm license from (name of applicant). (he/she) has always exhibited responsible firearm usage, and possesses a profound understanding of the associated responsibilities.

For any additional inquiries, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at (contact number).

Kind regards,
(your name)

We hope these examples will help you in structuring your Firearms License Character Reference Letter. Remember to add any other important facts about the person for which you are writing the letter, and above all, be honest.
If you ever feel that the person who is asking you to write the character reference letter is not fit for firearm ownership, do not provide a letter for them. Firearm ownership is a serious matter, and you need to be fully confident in that person if you bear witness for them!

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.