According to the Criminal Code, a restricted firearm is;

• A handgun which is not a prohibited firearm,
• A firearm that
  • is not a prohibited firearms,
  • has a barrel less than 470 mm in length, and
  • is capable of discharging centre-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner.
• A firearm that is designed or adapted to be fired when reduced to a length of less than 660 mm by folding, telescoping or otherwise,
• A firearms of any kind that is prescribed by regulation to be a restricted firearm.

Individuals require;

• a firearms licence that is valid for restricted firearm in order to possess or acquire a restricted firearm and to obtain ammunition,
• a registration certificate issued under the Firearms Act for all restricted firearms in their possession
• an Authorization to Transport, issued by the Chief Firearms (CFO) of their provincial or territorial jurisdiction, in order to transport a restricted firearm from on location to another.

Individuals must store, display and transport their restricted firearms according to the applicable regulations.

Individuals must be at least 18 to get a licence authorizing them to have a restricted firearms. Individuals younger than 18 years of age can use restricted firearms only if the are under the direct and immediate supervision of a licensed adult.


Individuals who do not yet have a firearms licence, or who wish to change their licence privileges to include restricted firearms, must apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL).


Individuals must participate in the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course and pass the test to be eligible for a PAL with restricted privileges.


For the following go to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police website (Restricted Firearms) to obtain the information on these topics.

• Permitted purposes for a restricted firearm
• Criteria for each purpose
  • Target Shooting Practice and Competition
  • Collectors of Restricted Firearms
  • Employment Purposes and Protection of Life
  • Registration
  • Previously Registered Firearms
  • Newly Acquired Firearms
  • Verification
  • Authorizations to Transport

The Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course deals with all aspects of a Non-Restricted Firearm and how the different types of firearms actions work. The course also covers ammunition, legal aspects, safe and legal storage as well as transportation.


There is a written and practical test that must be completed with passing marks of 80% minimum.


After completing the exam your paper work will be forward to the Chief Firearms Office of Ontario in Orillia, where it will be processed and duly certified and two copies will be returned to you in about four (4) to six (6) weeks. Keep one copy and store it in a safe place for the future. The other copy goes with your Firearms Licence application.


The fee for this licence is $20.00 for five (5) years.