Changes to UK Firearms Licensing: What You Need to Know

The UK government has introduced new rules regarding firearms and shotgun certificates, aimed at enhancing the regulation process. Here’s a breakdown of these changes, which come into effect on August 5, 2025.

Key Changes

1. Increased Referee Requirement:

   • Previously, only one referee was needed for a shotgun certificate application. With the new rules, applicants must now provide two referees. This change is part of an effort to ensure more thorough background checks.

2. Updated Application Forms:

   • The forms for applying for or renewing firearm and shotgun certificates have been updated. The new forms require additional information, including details about any neuro-developmental conditions and time spent abroad by the applicant. This aims to provide a more comprehensive assessment of applicant suitability.

3. Firearms Dealers Applications:

   • Similar updates have been made to the application forms for firearms dealers. The new forms also ask for information regarding neuro-developmental conditions and time spent abroad, aligning with the changes for individual applicants.

Transitional Arrangements

• Applications submitted by September 5, 2025, can still use the old forms. Importantly, for shotgun certificate applications received by this date, only one referee is needed, as per the old rules.

Why These Changes?

The updates are designed to tighten controls around firearms licensing, ensuring that thorough background checks are conducted. By requiring more detailed personal information, the government aims to bolster public safety while streamlining the process for officials handling these applications.

Impact

The government has determined that these changes will not have a significant impact on the private, voluntary, or public sectors, suggesting the transition should be smooth for applicants and officials alike.

For those involved in firearms applications, it’s crucial to be aware of these updates and ensure that any submissions are in line with the new requirements.