Firearms licensing service update

Service status: severe delays

We have a significant backlog of new grant and renewal applications following the Covid-19 pandemic, so unfortunately our standard timeframes can't be guaranteed. This also applies to variations, transfers and updates.

We apologise for any inconvience this may cause you. We are working through the backlog as quickly as we can.

During this time:

• We won't respond to enquiries regarding the progress and status of applications.
• We'll only get in touch with you if we have questions about your application, or need to ask for more information or to arrange a home visit.
• Please only apply for a variation if it's absolutely necessary. If you do so, you must return your current certificate to the firearms department or it won't be able to issue a new certificate to you.
• Applications submitted without the completed GP proforma will not be accepted. You will need to submit a new application. A refund will be issued to you for your original application.
• It will likely take a minimum of 24 weeks from the date of your application for us to get in touch with you.

Please note: You will be committing an offence under the Firearms Act 1968 Section (1) if your certificate expires and you're still in possession of your weapon(s), and have not received notification of an extension.

Contact the firearms licensing team with any queries.