How to apply for an air rifle licence in the UK?

In the UK, there are many rules, codes of conduct and legal requirements for using, carrying and owning air rifles. With all the different powers, calibres, and rifle choices, it is critical that you stay up to date with the rules and requirements set by your jurisdiction.

Navigating the world of firearms licensing might feel difficult and time-consuming. With differing and complicated information available online, we're here to help you through the process and take the necessary steps to secure your license, whether in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

What kind of licences are there?

In England and Wales, air rifles are categorised based on their power output, which determines the type of licence required. There are two main types of licenses: the General and Firearms certificates.

A general license is a legal document issued by authorities that permits using certain guns to control pests, wildlife, and birds. This license typically doesn't require an application and covers less powerful guns, depending on your location.

A Firearms certificate is granted individually after a detailed application process. This process includes checks on the applicant's background, mental health, and suitability to own firearms. This certificate is needed for owning and using firearms, air rifles, and shotguns not covered under the general License.

The General Licence

The General Licence applies to air rifles that discharge ammunition at a power level of fewer than 12 foot-pounds (including PCP air rifles, spring air rifles, gas ram, CO2 and most entry-level air rifles). While this is not a formal licence per se, it signifies that these air rifles are not subject to the same rigorous licensing requirements as more powerful firearms.

These rifles are predominantly used for recreational shooting, pest control, and target practice. Despite the lack of a formal licence requirement, users must still comply with specific regulations, such as age restrictions—users must be over 18 to purchase or hire these weapons.

FAC Licence

The Firearm Certificate (FAC) is mandatory for air rifles with power over 12-foot pounds. These high-powered air rifles are classified as Section 1 firearms under the Firearms Act 1968, necessitating a more stringent regulatory framework due to their potential to cause greater harm.

An FAC involves a thorough application process, including background checks, character references, and proof of a legitimate reason for possessing such a weapon. Applicants must be at least 14, but ownership is restricted to those over 18. Once granted, the certificate is valid for five years. The initial application fee is £88, and the renewal fee is £62.

The FAC process underscores the importance of regulated access to high-powered air rifles, ensuring that they are only used by individuals who meet strict criteria and demonstrate responsibility in their handling and storage.

Do these rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland?

• Scotland: A license is required for all air rifles regardless of power, aligning air rifle regulation more closely with full firearms.

• Northern Ireland: All air rifles, regardless of power, require a licence, reflecting uniform treatment of air weapons and firearms.

So, how do you apply for a firearms license?

When applying for a firearms licence, you must meet several basic requirements to ensure your application is considered.

1) Eligibility Criteria

Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial to ensuring a successful application process for a firearms licence. Two primary factors that applicants must consider are age and residency status.

Age Requirements

England and Wales have specific age requirements for firearms licence applicants to ensure responsible usage. While individuals can apply for a Firearm Certificate (FAC) starting at 14, this does not equate to ownership or purchase rights reserved for those at least 18 years old.

These age limits promote safe handling and a gradual introduction to firearm responsibilities, ensuring that only mature and responsible individuals can fully possess firearms.

• England and Wales: Individuals aged 18 and over can purchase and own an air rifle without a licence if it is below the power limit. Under-18s can use air rifles under supervision and cannot purchase them.

• Scotland: The minimum age to possess an air weapon certificate is 14, but they cannot purchase one until 18. Supervision is required for those under 18.

• Northern Ireland: Like firearms, ownership and use are tightly regulated, with certificates required for all ages and supervision mandates for younger users.

Residency Status

In England and Wales, firearm licence applicants must be UK residents. This requirement is significant because it ensures that the applicant is governed by UK laws and regulations, facilitating comprehensive background checks and ongoing compliance with local firearm legislation.

Being a resident means the local authorities can more easily verify the applicant's lifestyle, history, and activities, contributing to a more thorough and reliable vetting process.

Obtaining a firearms licence is generally more complex for non-residents due to the difficulties of conducting background checks and ensuring compliance with UK laws.

• Scotland: Similar to England and Wales, applicants must be UK residents with documentation to verify residency status.

• Northern Ireland: Applicants must be residents of Northern Ireland, with proof required to confirm their residential status.

2) Disqualifying Factors

Criminal Records:

Applicants with certain criminal convictions, especially those related to violence or firearms offences, may be disqualified from obtaining a firearms licence. Such convictions indicate a potential risk to public safety, and all countries take this factor very seriously.

The UK takes a stringent approach to ensuring that firearms are not accessible to individuals who have demonstrated violent behaviour or disregard for the law. A custodial sentence of three years or more typically results in a lifetime ban on firearm ownership, while lesser convictions might lead to a temporary prohibition.

The sensitivity around firearms means that even spent convictions are carefully scrutinised across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Check your local police website to ensure you're up-to-date with the criteria.

Mental Health:

A history of mental health issues can also be a disqualifying factor when applying for a firearms license. The application process includes a medical evaluation where applicants must consent to the police accessing their medical records.

This step is crucial to identify any conditions that might impair an individual's ability to safely manage and operate an air rifle. The focus is on ensuring that those with mental health issues that could pose a danger to themselves or others are not granted access to firearms.

England and Wales:

• Disqualifying Conditions: Mental health conditions that impair judgment or pose a risk to safety, such as severe depression or schizophrenia, may disqualify applicants.

• Medical Assessments: Applicants must disclose any mental health issues. The police may request a medical report from the applicant's GP to assess the impact of their mental health on firearm safety.

• Specific Processes: Each application is reviewed individually, with local police considering the medical history and current mental health status in consultation with healthcare professionals.

Scotland:

• Disqualifying Conditions: Similar to England and Wales, conditions that could compromise safe firearm use are scrutinised, with particular attention to recent or severe cases.

• Medical Assessments: Police may require a detailed report from the applicant’s healthcare provider to evaluate their mental health status and any risks associated with firearm possession.

• Additional Considerations: The Scottish police work closely with medical professionals to determine the appropriateness of issuing an FAC, ensuring public safety is a priority.

Northern Ireland:

• Disqualifying Conditions: Mental health conditions that raise concerns about safety or judgment are carefully evaluated, with strict criteria applied.

• Medical Assessments: Applicants must provide comprehensive medical disclosures, and the police may seek additional assessments or reports.

• Unique Procedures: The historical sensitivity around firearms in Northern Ireland means mental health assessments are particularly thorough, with an emphasis on detailed background checks.

3) Necessary Documentation

Checklist of Required Documents for a Firearms Licence Application

1. Identification:

   • Valid Passport or Driver's License: These documents are essential for verifying the applicant's identity. They ensure the applicant is who they claim to be and help prevent fraudulent applications. A valid form of identification is crucial for establishing the authenticity of the applicant’s personal information.

2. Proof of Address:

   • Utility Bills or Bank Statements: These documents must be recent, not older than three months. Acceptable proofs include utility bills and bank statements. Proof of address is essential to confirm that the applicant is a UK resident, which is required for holding a firearms license. This also assists in conducting background checks and ensures compliance with local jurisdictional requirements.

3. References:

   • Two Referees of Good Character: Applicants must provide details of two referees who have known them personally for at least two years. These referees should not be family members and must be willing to vouch for the applicant’s character and suitability to own a firearm. The role of references is critical in assessing the applicant’s character, reliability, and responsibility, providing an additional layer of security and assurance to the authorities processing the application.

These documents collectively ensure that the applicant is thoroughly vetted, contributing to the safe and responsible issuance of firearms licences in the UK. Each piece of documentation plays a vital role in the verification process, maintaining the integrity and safety of the licensing system.

While the core documents required are generally consistent, some regions may impose additional documentation based on local law enforcement policies or security considerations. Due to historical and security contexts, Northern Ireland often involves more stringent checks and documentation.

Steps to Apply

Applying for a Firearm Certificate (FAC) in England and Wales involves several important steps to ensure compliance with legal requirements and demonstrate responsible firearm ownership. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:

1. Obtain the Application Form:

   • You can obtain the FAC application form from your local police authority or download it from their official website. This form is the starting point of the application process.

2. Complete the Application Form:

   • Personal Information: Fill out your personal details, including full name, date of birth, and contact information.

   • Firearms Details: List the types and quantities of firearms you wish to own, ensuring they align with your intended use.

   • Reasons for Use: Provide a legitimate reason for needing a firearm, such as target shooting, hunting, or recreational and sporting activities with a membership in a shooting club.

3. Gather Required Documents:

   • Identification: A valid passport or driver’s license is required to verify your identity.

   • Proof of Address: To confirm your residency, provide recent utility bills or bank statements (not over three months).

   • References: Secure two good-character referees who have known you personally for at least two years. They must not be family members and should be able to vouch for your suitability to own firearms.

4. Submit the Application:

   • Submit your completed application form and all supporting documents to your local police authority. To avoid delays, ensure that everything is accurately and thoroughly completed.

5. Home Visit by Firearms Officer:

   • A firearms officer will conduct a home visit to inspect your storage arrangements and discuss your application. This is a crucial step to ensure you have the necessary security measures for safe firearm storage.

6. Interview:

   • Be prepared for a potential interview with the firearms officer. This interview will assess your understanding of firearms safety and your reasons for applying.

7. Application Processing:

   • The processing time for an FAC application can vary but typically takes several weeks to a few months. Patience is key during this period as background checks and assessments are conducted.

Fees and Payments

• The fee for an FAC application is typically around £88. This fee may vary, so it is advisable to check with the local police authority for the most current rates.

• Payments can usually be made online through the police authority's website or by cheque included with the application form.

How does the process differ in Northern Ireland and Scotland?

While the FAC application process and fundamentals are similar, here are some key points about the differences in application across England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

1. Application Form:

   • Northern Ireland: The application form, which is specific to the region's requirements, is obtained from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

   • England and Wales: Forms tailored to the specific guidelines of these areas are available from local police authorities or their websites.

   • Scotland: Similar to England and Wales, applicants may find minor variations due to Scotland's distinct legal framework.

2. Required Documents:

   • All regions require similar documentation, including identification (passport or driver’s license), proof of address (utility bills or bank statements), and references.

   • References: In all areas, referees must not be family members and should vouch for the applicant’s character and suitability to own a firearm.

3. Role of Local Police Authorities:

   • In all regions, the local police authority is responsible for processing applications, conducting background checks, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

4. Home Visits:

   • Conducted inspections of firearm storage arrangements in all regions and discussed the application with the applicant.

   • What is checked may vary slightly, depending on regional safety standards and requirements.

5. Interviews:

   • While interviews are a possibility in all regions, the approach may differ slightly:

     • Northern Ireland: Likely to include a thorough discussion of safety measures and reasons for owning a firearm.

     • England and Wales/Scotland: These are similar in purpose, with an emphasis on understanding the applicant’s needs and safety awareness.

6. Fees and Processing Times:

   • Processing times can vary across all regions, typically taking several weeks to a few months. Delays can occur if additional information or checks are required.

   • Fees are applicable in all regions, though the exact amounts can vary. It’s important to check with the respective local authority for current fees.

7. Regional Regulations:

   • Northern Ireland: It may have specific requirements reflecting its distinct legal system, such as particular considerations for certain types of firearms.

   • Scotland: Due to its separate legal jurisdiction, Scotland may have additional criteria or rules that can affect specific application details or processes.

These differences highlight the importance of understanding regional requirements when applying for a firearms licence in the UK. Always consult the local authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of firearm licenses, particularly the Firearm Certificate (FAC) in the UK, is crucial for ensuring responsible and legal ownership of firearms and air guns (air rifles). Being well-informed about the application process and the responsibilities of a FAC can help applicants navigate the system confidently and effectively.

As air rifle laws and guidelines evolve, keeping up-to-date ensures compliance and helps FAC holders maintain their legal standing. Learn your local law so that you know you're using your air rifle safely and legally. If you have any queries or questions or want help getting the perfect air rifle you for you, please do not hesitate to contact us. A member of our Air Arms team will be here to help.