Do the myths surrounding the acquisition of a firearms license refrain you from applying for a permit altogether? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. This guide to applying for a firearms license will help you understand the whole process of acquiring a firearms license with ease.
GET THE APPLICATION FORM
The first step is to get a Firearms Licence application form. You will find that the conditions for Shotgun and Firearms Licence applications are largely identical. However, in the case of firearms, you must prove that you have a reason to own one. You can search for your local police force website online and download the Firearms Application Form and the Shotgun Application Form from there. Also, to save time and cost, you can apply for both simultaneously. It also makes the renewal of your certificate simpler.
CREATE A CHECKLIST
To ensure you do not forget to fulfill any formalities while filling out your application form, create a checklist of the important things. Your list should contain the following points:
- Take a copy of your records.
- Get four passport-sized photos– two signed and dated on the back by referees, one signed and dated on the back by self, and one blank.
- A payable cheque for the application fee.
- Signed permission forms for the land you will be using the firearms on and proof of membership to an approved rifle club.
- A cover letter in case of any special circumstances regarding your health or on the demand of licensing departments seeking a well-written cover letter that explains everything.
INTERVIEW
Once you have successfully submitted your application form, you will be contacted by a Firearms Enquiry Officer during the process. Please do not feel overwhelmed or intimidated by the same, as they will only enquire to check your suitability to possess firearms. Beware of some organizations that will try to believe that they are out to get you and do not want anyone having guns. Do not freak out if an instance like this occurs, as this is not true.
During the interview, follow the basic rule– relax and be yourself. Be polite to the interviewer and answer all questions with a considered and thoughtful answer. If you do not know the answer to any question, say so. Do not force yourself to answer. Do not get into arguments based on the knowledge you acquired from other people’s interpretations of the law that you may have read online or elsewhere.
Remember that you will be liable for the outcome. If you react badly in the interview and the FEO deems you unsuitable for acquiring firearms, that would be because of your mistakes. The Firearms Enquiry Officers are trained to pick up on unstable people. It is their job to not give a firearms license to someone who cannot keep their cool and be rational.
