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CFSC
How to obtain a Non-Restricted PAL ( Possession & Acquisition Licence ) β & the CFSC course
1) Book & take the CFSC (Non-Restricted) course
β’ What it covers: safe handling, storage, transportation, ammunition, firearm types, and legal responsibilities. οΏΌ
β’ Format & length: Our classroom course offers online theory + testing with a minimum of 8-11 hours of instruction, plus written and practical tests.οΏΌοΏΌ
β’ Passing requirements: written + practical exams (commonly an 80% passing score on theory; practical handling skills are tested). οΏΌ
β’ Who can take it: generally anyone 12+ (minors need parental consent and a Minorβs Licence if applicable). οΏΌ
What to tell students to bring: government photo ID, note-taking materials, any proof of pre-paid registration, and (if applicable) parental consent for minors. Remind them to arrive on time and follow safety instructions.
2) Receive your course certificate
β’ After completing the CFSC, the instructor issues a course completion certificate (or a test result card) β this is required to apply for a PAL. Keep a copy for your records. οΏΌ
3) Apply for a PAL (Non-Restricted)
β’ Apply online (recommended) through the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program portal or submit a paper application if required. You will upload/attach your CFSC certificate, ID, and photo, and pay the application fee. οΏΌ
β’ Background checks: the RCMP will perform criminal and safety checks (including reference checks and review of your suitability to hold a licence). The process may include waiting for results and additional follow-up if required. οΏΌ
β’ Processing time: varies. (You can link to the RCMP for the current processing timelines.) οΏΌ
DEFINITION
A non-restricted firearm is any firearm that is neither prohibited nor restricted. In practice, this means:
Ordinary rifles and shotguns that:
β’ Have an overall length of 660 mm (26 inches) or more, and
β’ Have a barrel length of at least 470 mm (18.5 inches), or
β’ Are not designed or adapted to be fired when reduced below that length (i.e., not easily concealable).
β’ They must not fall into the restricted category (such as most handguns, some semi-automatics, or firearms with specific barrel lengths) or prohibited category (such as fully automatic firearms or specifically banned models).
Examples
β’ Typical hunting rifles (bolt-action, lever-action, pump, or semi-automatic with lawful magazine capacity).
β’ Standard shotguns used for hunting, trap, or skeet.
β’ Sporting rifles are commonly used for target shooting.
FIREARMS LICENCE
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1. Eligibility Requirements
β’ Must be at least:
β’ 18 years old for a full PAL (Possession and Acquisition Licence).
β’ 12β17 years old may apply for a Minorβs Licence (limited use, no acquisition rights).
β’ Must be a Canadian resident or have valid immigration status.
β’ Must not be prohibited by court order from possessing firearms.
β’ Must pass safety training and background checks. -
2. Safety Training & Exams
β’ Complete the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) for non-restricted firearms.
β’ Complete the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) if you want restricted firearms (e.g., handguns).
β’ Each course includes written and practical exams β you must pass both. -
3. Application (RCMP Form 5592)
Submit the application with:
β’ Course results (safety certificate).
β’ Photo (passport style).
β’ References (2 people who have known you for at least 3 years).
β’ Fee payment.
β’ Send to the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) of the RCMP. -
4. Background Checks
The RCMP conducts a detailed background check, including criminal, mental health, and personal history.
β’ Spousal/partner notification may be required.
β’ Processing typically takes 45β90 days. -
5. Licence Issuance
If approved, you will receive your PAL (plastic card licence) by mail.
β’ Valid for 5 years, then renewable.
π― Classes of Firearms Licences
1. Non-Restricted (PAL β Non-Restricted)
β’ For ordinary rifles and shotguns (hunting, sport shooting).
β’ Requires CFSC only.
2. Restricted (PAL β Restricted)
β’ For handguns and certain semi-automatic rifles/shotguns.
β’ Requires CFSC + CRFSC.
β’ Additional conditions for use (e.g., registered, transport permits).
3. Prohibited (PAL β Prohibited)
β’ Very limited, generally grandfathered only (cannot newly obtain).
β’ Applies to specific prohibited handguns, automatic firearms, and other banned models.
β’ Only those who were licensed before the bans and continuously held status may keep them.
4. Minorβs Licence
β’ For youth (12β17) to borrow and use non-restricted firearms under supervision.
β’ Does not allow acquisition or ownership.