info@gunco.co.za

Training Material

fREQUENTLY aSKED qUESIONS

Lekker to know

1. What is the process to obtain a firearm license in South Africa?

Step 1: Complete Proficiency Training

  • Enroll at an accredited training centre ADD LINK TO TRAINING PROVIDERS.
  • Undergo self-study and complete the open-book exam provided.
  • Attend training session covering theory (open and closed book exam) and practical assessments.
  • Receive your training certificate and Statement of Results (SOR).

Step 2: Apply for Competency Certificate at SAPS

  • Submit your application at your local SAPS with the required documents.
  • The processing time is approximately 90 working days.

Step 3: Apply for Firearm License at SAPS

  • Once you have your competency certificate, you may apply for your firearm license at SAPS.
  • The processing time is approximately 120 working days.
2. How much does firearm training cost?

Training fees vary based on the provider and region. For specific pricing information, please get in touch with us directly at info@gunco.co.za or reach out to one of our accredited training providers. 

3. How long does firearm training take?

Once you register, you will receive your training material to complete through self-study and open-book exam. After completing the self-study and open-book exam, contact your training provider to book your appointment.

Basic training typically takes a full day (around 8 hours), covering both theory and practical assessments, all completed on the same day.

Intermediate training (business purposes) is conducted over 2 days.

4. What are the SAPS costs?
  • Competency certificate cost R92
  • Firearm licence cost R183
5. What do you need to register for firearm training?

To undergo firearm training, you will need to visit an accredited training provider. To register for training, you will need a certified copy of your ID document and proof of payment for the course/s.

6. Who may apply for a SAPS competency certificate?
  • You must be at least 21 years old (unless you can show a compelling reason, such as a need for sports shooting, or employment in the security industry).
  • You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident with a valid ID or residency permit.
  • You must not have a criminal record.
  • You must be declared mentally sound and emotionally stable.
  • You must successfully complete firearm training.
7. What is the difference between proficiency and competency?
  • Proficiency = Training

Proficiency refers to the firearm training you complete through an accredited training provider.

  • Competency = SAPS Approval

Competency refers to the certificate issued by SAPS after completing proficiency training.

8. Which documents are required to apply for a firearm licence?
  • Certified copy of SAPS Competency Certificate.
  • Completed SAPS 271 Form (Application for Licence to Possess a Firearm).
  • R183 SAPS licence application fee.
  • Certified copy of ID document.
  • Certified copy of the training provider certificate.
  • Certified copy of PFTC Statement of Results.
  • Proof of residential address.
  • Detailed motivation letter.
  • Two (2) colour passport-sized photos.
  • Two (2) colour photos of your firearm safe.
9. Which documents are required to apply for a competency certificate?
  • Completed SAPS 517 Form (Application for a Competency Certificate).
  • R92 SAPS competency application fee.
  • Certified copy of ID document.
  • Certified copy of the training provider certificate.
  • Certified copy of PFTC Statement of Results.
  • Proof of residential address.
  • Three (3) people’s details that you nominate to be character witnesses.
  • Two (2) colour passport-sized photos.
10. Where can I complete firearm training?

Contact any GunCo-accredited training provider for assistance.