Apply for a firearms licence (individual)

When you apply for a NSW firearms licence you must provide evidence of your genuine reason for the possession and use of firearms.

The protection of yourself or another person is not considered a genuine reason.

You can have more than one genuine reason on your firearms licence.

Firearms licences are issued for 2 or 5 years with the exception of a:

• probationary pistol licence – 12 months
• provisional pistol (business/employment) – 12 months.

You must be a resident of NSW and:

• be at least 18 years of age
• be a fit and proper person to have access to firearms
• have successfully completed a firearms training and safety course applicable to the type of firearm licence you're applying for
• be able to provide evidence to justify your genuine reason for possessing or using a firearm.

• proof of identity documents such as your driver licence and Medicare card
• a MyServiceNSW Account
• one of the following:
  • a firearms safety training certificate
  • your previously held firearms licence number, or
  • your current interstate firearms licence number
• documentation to support each genuine reason/category
• a current credit card (Visa or Mastercard) for your payment, or
• a copy of your current eligible pensioner card.

In addition, depending on your genuine reason(s):

• if you’re applying for a licence over and above a category A firearms licence, you need:
  • evidence that a ‘special need’ exists for a category B, C, D or H licence
• if you're applying for a category H firearm licence with the genuine reason of business or employment as an armed security guard, you need:
  • a copy of your current 1F security licence
  • a current firearms training and safety course certificate
  • a letter of intent and endorsement from an approved master licensee.

1. Select the 'Apply online' button.
2. You will be taken to the NSW Police Force Community Self Service Portal.
3. Check that you have all the documentation required.
4. Select 'Log in with Service NSW'.
5. Follow the prompts to complete your application.

Due to the restrictions on movement and social distancing due to COVID-19 (Coronavirus), some requirements relating to firearms and prohibited weapons licensing may be difficult for a person to meet.

For more information visit COVID 19 Firearms Registry Response.