How to Apply for a UK Firearms or Shotgun Licence (FAC & SGC Guide)

Thinking of applying for a gun licence in the UK? Here’s how to do it the right way.

Whether you're a new shooter or expanding your collection, owning a legal firearm or shotgun in the UK requires a valid certificate issued by your local police force. This guide will walk you through how to apply for a Firearm Certificate (FAC) or Shotgun Certificate (SGC), clearly, legally, and confidently.

1. Decide Which Type of Certificate You Need

You’ll need to apply for one (or both) of the following:

• Firearm Certificate (FAC): For rifles, moderators (suppressors), high-powered airguns, and ammunition. You must provide a valid reason for each firearm.
   
• Shotgun Certificate (SGC): For shotguns with no more than a 2-round magazine (most over/under and side-by-side shotguns). No specific “good reason” is required unless challenged.
   

Not sure which you need? Compare FAC vs SGC here

2. Download and Complete the Application Form

The standard UK firearms application form is Form 201, used for FAC, SGC, or a combined application.

You can get this from:

• Your local police firearms licensing page
• The gov.uk website 
• Paper copies by request
   

You’ll need to provide:

• Personal information (DOB, address history, occupation)
   
• Full disclosure of any convictions (even spent ones)
   
• Disclosure if you have been diagnosed with or treated for any of the stated medical conditions and permission for medical checks

• Details of your referees
   
• Reasons for owning each firearm (FAC only)

3. Choose the Right Referees

• Firearm Certificate (FAC): You must provide two referees
   
• Shotgun Certificate (SGC): You need one referee
   

They must:

• Be over 18 years old
   
• Have known you personally for at least 2 years
   
• Not be a relative, registered firearms dealer, or police employee
   
• Be able to vouch for your character, temperament, and suitability
   

Tip: Try choose referees who are respected in your local community - teachers, business owners, club officials, etc.

4. Provide Medical Disclosure & GP Consent

You must give police permission to contact your General Practitioner (GP). Some forces ask for a signed medical pro forma from your GP, others send a request directly.

Be honest about:

• Past or current mental health conditions (including PTSD, bipolar, anxiety, alcohol abuse)
   
• Medications or treatment
   
• Hospitalisations or diagnoses
   

Having a mental health history does not automatically disqualify you, but failing to declare it might.

5. Prepare Your Secure Gun Storage

Before your home visit, make sure you have:

• A gun cabinet that meets BS7558 standards

• Or a gun clamp, if you have one firearm. It should be made out of steel that is at least 2mm thick, it must have a seam-welded joint or must be made by bend construction, and it must have a lock that meets the BS3621 standards.

• Secure mounting to a solid wall or floor
   
• Separate locked storage for ammunition (FAC only)
   
• Hidden location, ideally away from public view or access
   

Police will inspect this during their visit. If your storage isn’t ready, it can delay or derail your application.

6. The Police Home Visit & Interview

Once your form is submitted, a Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO) will be assigned. They will:

• Visit your home
   
• Inspect your gun cabinet/clamp and locks
   
• Interview you about your experience, intentions, and knowledge
   
• May speak to your referees or family members
   
• Assess general suitability and awareness of safety rules

7. Pay the Application Fee

As of 2025, the standard fees are:

Fees are payable to your local police force when you submit your form. Check for exact pricing and payment methods.

8. Wait for a Decision

The process typically takes anywhere from 6 to 35 weeks. Obviously, this is a massive difference in time but it varies massively by region and workload. Delays are common if:

• Your GP or referees are slow to respond
   
• Your storage isn’t installed yet
   
• There are follow-up questions about your application
   

Once approved, your certificate will arrive by post.

What to Do After You’re Approved

Once you have your certificate:

• You may legally buy, own, and use the firearms listed
   
• You must record all acquisitions and disposals
   
• Always store your guns safely and comply with conditions
   
• You must notify the police of any changes (address, health, etc.)
   

Most certificates are valid for 5 years, after which you must renew in advance.

Summary: Your Gun Licence Application Checklist

✔️ Download and complete Form 201
✔️ Provide correct referees
✔️ Grant medical consent to your GP
✔️ Install certified gun storage
✔️ Submit payment
✔️ Prepare for police interview and home visit

Ready to Start Your Application?

Whether you’re applying for the first time or returning to the sport, Gunstar’s Licensing Hub gives you the tools to move forward with confidence.