Firearms licensing applications are moving online

From Wednesday 1 May 2024 all new firearms and shotgun licensing applications will need to be submitted online.  Printed applications will no longer be accepted.

This is part of our aim to become paperless in relation to firearms licensing communications, applications and updates.  Not only is this more cost effective, it’s also more environmentally friendly.

Why has this decision been made?
The new process follows feedback from license holders that the current paper process is slow and outdated.  Applying online will speed up the process and also save both the force and license holders money on postage costs.

How do I apply?
Visit the How to apply for a firearm, shotgun or explosives certificate page on our website to apply.

What if I haven’t got a computer or the internet?
We would encourage anyone without access to the internet to visit their local library, where computers and wi-fi are available for the public to use.

Will I still be able to print a copy of my application?
No, there is no facility to print applications as part of the online process.

What about certificate renewals?
These can now be completed online and we’d encourage everyone to do their renewal this way as it speeds up the receipt, checking and processing time.

We’ll start phasing our paper renewals from 1 May 2024 and will let you know when the print function for renewals will be removed from the website.

What about transactions and variations?
Good news, these can also now be completed online too.

How will this save me time and money?
At the moment 80% of applications have to be returned as they are incomplete.  When this is done by post it’s time consuming and costs both the force and the license holder money in postage costs.  Using the online system this can be done instantly and without incurring postage costs.

Will my certificate be electronic too?
No, we will continue to send watermarked paper certificates.

What about the form I need to send to my GP?
This process won’t change.  The form can still be downloaded from the website to send to your GP.  You can then scan or take a photo of stamped copy you receive back from your GP and upload it as part of your online application. 

I’ve got an old pre-printed form, can I post it to you?
No.  Please do not use old pre-printed application forms as these may be out of date.

 
We understand that these changes may be daunting for some of our firearms certificated community, and we will continue to work closely with colleagues and organisations such as the Gamekeepers Association to support this moving forwards.

If you have any questions or concerns about the new process please contact the firearms licensing team.  It might take us a while to reply  as we prioritise the possession, purchase and movement of firearms, but we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Issued by LS, Corporate Communications.