POPULAR QUESTIONS IN RELATION TO NEW FIREARMS LICENSING
PROCESSES
Q. Will there be a limit on the number of firearms an individual may have licensed?
A. There is no limit. However, new minimum security standards will now be required of holders of
firearm certificates in relation to the provision of secure accommodation for their firearms. The level
of security is dependent on the number of firearms certified to an individual.
Q. Who can apply for Training Certificate? What is the age limit? Can a trainee use any
firearm?
A. Any person over 14 years of age can apply for a firearms training certificate. The training
certificate does not entitle the holder to actually own a firearm and the certificate can only apply to a
non-restricted firearm. The person must always be under the supervision of a specified person over 18
years of age who holds a firearm certificate in respect of it. The training certificate shall continue in
force for 3 years unless revoked.
Q. Where can I get a new application form for a Firearms Certificate and who do I apply to?
A. All application forms that apply to the new firearms legislation can be obtained at any Garda
Station or on www.garda.ie An application for a non restricted firearm certificate shall be made on
form FCA1 to the superintendent of the district where the applicant resides. If the application refers
to a restricted firearm, the superintendent shall forward the application to the chief superintendent of
that division.
Q. How much is a new Firearms Certificate and what is its duration?
A. All new firearms certificates will cost €80 and will remain in force for 3 years from the date it was
granted unless revoked. The collection of fees will be outsourced to An Post and no money will now
be accepted at Garda Stations for firearms certificates.
Q. Where can I get more information in relation to Firearm Licensing?
A. The Garda Commissioner has issued Guidelines as to the practical application and operation on
the firearm acts 1925-2009. These Guidelines should be read as an aid to recently enacted firearms
legislation, in particular the Criminal Justice Act 2006 and the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous
Provisions Act) 2009. The Guidelines are available on www.garda.ie
Q. Is one FCA1 to be completed for each application?
A. Yes. Each application will require a separate fully completed FCA1 with a
photo attached to each application.
Q. Should Gardaí attach copies of passport/driving licence to a completed
application form?
A. No. Once the Garda is satisfied with the applicants Identification, by viewing
passports/ driving licences etc., this will suffice.
