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CFSC
How to obtain a Non-Restricted PAL ( Possession & Acquisition Licence ) — & the CFSC course
1) Book & take the CFSC (Non-Restricted) course
• What it covers: safe handling, storage, transportation, ammunition, firearm types, and legal responsibilities. 
• Format & length: Our classroom course offers online theory + testing with a minimum of 8-11 hours of instruction, plus written and practical tests.
• Passing requirements: written + practical exams (commonly an 80% passing score on theory; practical handling skills are tested). 
• Who can take it: generally anyone 12+ (minors need parental consent and a Minor’s Licence if applicable). 
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
• After completing the CFSC, the instructor issues a course completion certificate (or a test result card) — this is required to apply for a PAL. Keep a copy for your records. 
3) Apply for a PAL (Non-Restricted)
• 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. 
• 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. 
• Processing time: varies. (You can link to the RCMP for the current processing timelines.) 
DEFINITION
A non-restricted firearm is any firearm that is neither prohibited nor restricted. In practice, this means:
Ordinary rifles and shotguns that:
• Have an overall length of 660 mm (26 inches) or more, and
• Have a barrel length of at least 470 mm (18.5 inches), or
• Are not designed or adapted to be fired when reduced below that length (i.e., not easily concealable).
• 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
• Typical hunting rifles (bolt-action, lever-action, pump, or semi-automatic with lawful magazine capacity).
• Standard shotguns used for hunting, trap, or skeet.
• Sporting rifles are commonly used for target shooting.
FIREARMS LICENCE
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1. Eligibility Requirements
• Must be at least:
• 18 years old for a full PAL (Possession and Acquisition Licence).
• 12–17 years old may apply for a Minor’s Licence (limited use, no acquisition rights).
• Must be a Canadian resident or have valid immigration status.
• Must not be prohibited by court order from possessing firearms.
• Must pass safety training and background checks. -
2. Safety Training & Exams
• Complete the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) for non-restricted firearms.
• Complete the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) if you want restricted firearms (e.g., handguns).
• Each course includes written and practical exams — you must pass both. -
3. Application (RCMP Form 5592)
Submit the application with:
• Course results (safety certificate).
• Photo (passport style).
• References (2 people who have known you for at least 3 years).
• Fee payment.
• 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.
• Spousal/partner notification may be required.
• Processing typically takes 45–90 days. -
5. Licence Issuance
If approved, you will receive your PAL (plastic card licence) by mail.
• Valid for 5 years, then renewable.
🎯 Classes of Firearms Licences
1. Non-Restricted (PAL – Non-Restricted)
• For ordinary rifles and shotguns (hunting, sport shooting).
• Requires CFSC only.
2. Restricted (PAL – Restricted)
• For handguns and certain semi-automatic rifles/shotguns.
• Requires CFSC + CRFSC.
• Additional conditions for use (e.g., registered, transport permits).
3. Prohibited (PAL – Prohibited)
• Very limited, generally grandfathered only (cannot newly obtain).
• Applies to specific prohibited handguns, automatic firearms, and other banned models.
• Only those who were licensed before the bans and continuously held status may keep them.
4. Minor’s Licence
• For youth (12–17) to borrow and use non-restricted firearms under supervision.
• Does not allow acquisition or ownership.