You apply for a firearm competency certificate at the police station in the area where you ordinarily live, through that station’s Designated Firearms Officer (DFO). Before you can apply, you must complete the prescribed training and tests at an accredited training provider. According to the SAPS firearm licence FAQ, the SAPS fee for a competency certificate is R88 and the fee for a firearm licence is R175. Training provider fees are separate and are set by the provider.
Step by Step: Getting a Competency Certificate
- Complete accredited training. You must pass the prescribed test on your knowledge of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No 60 of 2000), plus the prescribed training and practical test in the safe and efficient handling of a firearm. SAPS publishes a list of accredited training providers.
- Get your training certificate. The certificate comes from the accredited training provider or the Professional Firearm Training Council (PFTC).
- Complete the SAPS 517 form (Application for a competency certificate). If you already hold a competency certificate and need a further one, the form is the SAPS 517(a).
- Submit it to the DFO at the police station in the area where you ordinarily reside, with the supporting documents listed below.
- Have your fingerprints taken. The DFO takes a full set of fingerprints on the SAPS 91(a) form for a competency certificate. See our guide to the SAPS 91(a) fingerprint form.
- Pay the fee at the station’s financial office. The DFO issues a remittance advice (SAPS 523(a)). SAPS states that payment must be made in cash or by bank-guaranteed cheque. You receive a Z263 receipt, which you hand back to the DFO so that processing can continue.
Documents to Bring
For a first competency certificate, SAPS lists:
- The completed SAPS 517 form.
- A certified copy of your official identity document or passport.
- A certified copy of your permanent residence permit, if you are not a South African citizen.
- A certified copy of your firearm proficiency training certificate from an accredited training provider.
- Two passport-size colour photographs with a neutral background, not older than three months.
- Certified proof of residence.
- Any other supporting documents.
For a further competency certificate (SAPS 517(a)), add a certified copy of your previous competency certificate. You can have copies certified at any station. See certifying documents at a police station and affidavit for proof of residence if you do not have a utility bill in your name.
Applicants under 21
SAPS says a firearm licence can be applied for by any person who is 21 or older and is a South African citizen or permanent resident. If you are under 21, you must submit compelling reasons why you need a competency certificate. Examples given include conducting a business, being gainfully employed, being a dedicated hunter or sports person, or being a private or public collector, together with a sworn affidavit from a parent or guardian.
Fees at the Police Station
| Item | SAPS fee | Where it is paid |
|---|---|---|
| Competency certificate | R88,00 | Financial office at the police station |
| Licence to possess a firearm | R175,00 | Financial office at the police station |
| Accredited training and practical assessment | Set by the training provider | Paid to the provider, not to SAPS |
These amounts are the fees SAPS lists on its firearms FAQ. Confirm the current fee with the DFO before you go, because fees can be revised.
After the Competency Certificate: Applying for a Licence
A competency certificate on its own does not let you possess a firearm. SAPS requires a separate licence for every firearm you possess. Once you have your competency certificate, you complete the SAPS 271 form and submit it to the DFO with a certified copy of your ID, your original competency certificate, two photographs and documents motivating your application. If your application is successful, SAPS will ask you to obtain and install a firearm safe that meets the SABS standard within 14 days, and will inspect your premises before the licence is issued. You collect the licence from the DFO and sign for it in the SAPS 86 register.
How long is a competency certificate valid?
SAPS states that a competency certificate remains valid for the same period as the licence it relates to, as determined in the Firearms Control Act. It also specifies what it covers: possessing a firearm, trading in firearms, manufacturing firearms or conducting business as a gunsmith.
Checking an Application and Getting Help
For enquiries, SAPS directs you to your nearest police station or its FLASH call centre on 012 353 6111 (email [email protected]), as listed on the SAPS FLASH firearms page. SAPS also runs an online firearm application status enquiry from the same page.
Important: SAPS requires you to submit your application to the DFO at the police station in the area where you ordinarily live, not the station nearest your work. If you are not sure which that is, use our guide to which police station covers my area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does firearm competency cost at a police station?
The SAPS fee is R88 for the competency certificate. The training course and practical assessment are paid separately to the accredited training provider, and SAPS does not set that price.
Can I apply at any police station?
No. SAPS requires you to submit your application to the DFO at the police station in the area where you ordinarily reside.
Can I pay by card?
The SAPS FAQ states that payment must be made in cash or by bank-guaranteed cheque at the station’s financial office.