FAQ-Sakes
Firearm Training & Licensing Frequently asked questions - South Africa
Training & Proficiency
1. How much does firearm proficiency training cost?
Prices vary by training centre and region. 📧 Email train@firearmtrainers.co.za or contact any of our accredited providers for a price list.
2. What do I need to start firearm proficiency training?
Register at an Accredited Training Centre with a certified copy of your ID and proof of payment.
3. How long does firearm training take?
Basic: 1 day (theory, closed-book, practical)
Intermediate: 2 days
Certificates are usually issued within 1–7 days after completion.
4. Can I fail firearm proficiency training?
Yes. You must pass both the theory and practical assessments to be issued a certificate.
5. Do I need firearm training for every type of gun?
Yes. South African law requires separate proficiency for each firearm category (e.g., handgun, rifle, shotgun).
6. Can I upgrade from basic to business-purpose firearm training later?
Yes. You can complete the additional modules for business-purpose training at any accredited provider.
7. How long is a firearm training certificate valid?
Your proficiency certificate and Statement of Results (SOR) do not expire as long as you keep the originals. Records are stored by providers for 6 years.
Competency & SAPS Process
8. How long does it take to get a firearm license card?
Competency: ±90 working days (SAPS processing)
License: ±120 working days after competency approval
9. Who can apply for a firearm license?
Must be 21+, a South African citizen, or a permanent resident.
10. How do I get a SAPS competency certificate?
Complete your firearm proficiency training with Global Firearm Trainers or another accredited provider, then submit your competency application with the required documents at your nearest SAPS station.
11. What’s the difference between proficiency and competency?
Proficiency: Issued by a training provider after exams and practicals
Competency: Issued by SAPS after background checks
12. How long is firearm competency valid in South Africa?
Competency validity matches your firearm licence type:
Section 13 (self-defence): 5 years
Section 15 (occasional hunting/sport): 10 years
Section 16 (dedicated status): 10 years
13. Can I apply for more than one firearm licence at a time?
Yes, if you meet the requirements for each section of the Firearms Control Act.
Licensing & Legal Requirements
14. How do I apply for a firearm licence in South Africa?
1️⃣ Complete proficiency training – find a provider
2️⃣ Apply for competency at SAPS
3️⃣ Apply for firearm license once competency is approved
15. What documents are needed for competency and firearm licence?
Competency (SAPS 517): ID copy, proof of residence, training certificates, 3 references, 2 ID photos, R84 fee
Licence (SAPS 271): ID copy, proof of residence, training certificates, safe photos, 2 ID photos, R168 fee
16. What is a Section 13, 15, and 16 firearm licence?
Section 13: Self-defence
Section 15: Occasional hunting/sport shooting
Section 16: Dedicated hunting/sport shooting (with accredited association membership)
17. Can a foreigner own a firearm in South Africa?
Yes, if they have permanent residency and meet all legal requirements.
18. Can I carry my firearm while waiting for my licence?
No. You may only carry once your licence is issued by SAPS.
19. What happens if my firearm licence expires?
If you don’t renew at least 90 days before expiry, the licence ends and you must surrender the firearm to SAPS or a registered firearm dealer. You can apply for a new licence but cannot keep the gun while unlicensed.
Where to Train
20. Where can I train for a firearm licence?
Train with Global Firearm Trainers in Krugersdorp or through our accredited providers across South Africa – Find a provider.