Download Licence to Possess a Firearm SAPS 271 Form
What is a SAPS firearm licence?
The owner of a firearm must apply for a firearm licence from the South African Police Service before obtaining the firearm. Each individual firearm needs its own licence. In order to apply for a SAPS firearm licence, you have to be a South African citizen who is at least 21 years old.
How do you apply for a firearm licence?
The application for a licence to possess a firearm SAPS 271 form, a competency certificate and other supporting documentation must be submitted to the designated firearms officer (DFO) at the police station in the area where you ordinarily reside. A fee is payable upon application for a firearm licence. The DFO will complete a SAPS 91(a) fingerprints form along with your application.
SAPS 271 Form Supporting Documentation
- Certified copy of your official identification document or passport
- Certified copy of your permanent residence permit in the case of a non-South African citizen
- Original competency certificate
- The letter of appointment of the executor, if the firearm was inherited
- Two passport-size colour photographs (with a neutral background) that are not older than three months
- Firearm licence motivation documents in support of your application
How long does it take to obtain a firearm licence?
After successful consideration of your application, you have 14 days to install a firearm safe that meets the standards set by the South African Bureau of Standards. The DFO will inspect the firearm safe at your premises. Upon receipt of the DFO’s successful report on the inspection, the licence will be printed and attainable from the DFO against a signature on the SAPS 86 Register.
Also see Renewal of a Firearm Licence