Download Competency Certificate SAPS 517 Form

What is a competency certificate?

Before applying for a firearm licence, potential firearm owners must first undergo training at an accredited training provider or the Professional Firearm Training Council (PFTC). To get a training certificate, you must pass a test on the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No 60 of 2000) and complete training and a practical test on the safe and efficient handling of a firearm.

A training certificate, along with other documents, must be attached with an application for a competency certificate SAPS 517 form. You can download the SAPS 517 form below. A competency certificate is valid for as long as the specific firearm licence is valid.

A competency certificate specifies whether it relates to firearm competency to

possess a firearm
trade in firearms
manufacture firearms
conduct business as a gunsmith

How do you apply for a competency certificate?

The SAPS 517 application form, a training 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 firearm competency.

SAPS 517 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
Certified copy of your firearm proficiency training certificate issued by an accredited training provider
Two passport-size colour photographs (with a neutral background) that are not older than three months
Certified proof of residence
Any other supporting documents

Minor applicants

Applicants younger than 21 years must include a firearm licence motivation with their SAPS firearm competency application form:

conduct a business
must be gainfully employed
a dedicated hunter
a dedicated a sports person
a private collector
public collector
sworn affidavit from parent/guardian

Application for a further competency certificate

To apply for further firearm competency you must download and submit a SAPS 517(a) form. You can find instructions on how to complete the form here. Supporting documentation including a certified copy of previous competency certificate must accompany the application.

Also see Renewal of a Competency Certificate

Also see other SAPS Firearm Licence Forms