1. Find a firearm training provider near you (follow the link to The SA Professional  Firearm Trainers Council to help you find a trainer) and buy the proficiency material. The seller will explain how the testing works.
2. Apply for competency by using certified copies of the proficiency certificates and statement of results and apply at the DFO for the police station in the area that you live.
3. Once competency is approved, you can apply for a licence for a firearm.

You will need the following documents:

1. Download and complete the SAPS 517 form from the SAPS website (use black ink),
2. Certified copy of your ID,
3. Certified copies of your proficiency certificate and statement of results,
4. Two colour passport photos,
5. R84 cash payment fee if the year is 2023 (ask on the Firearms Policy Campaign’s Facebook group if it is no longer 2023).

Note: Your DFO will probably ask for proof of address to make sure you live in the area that they are responsible for. They do this because they do not have the resources to carry out official inspections as they are required. Your DFO will also explain how they want the character references. Some DFOs want affidavits, others want phone numbers for a telephone interview, and some will want a physical interview. The purpose of this interview is to confirm that you are (1) a fit and proper person to possess a firearm, (2) not dependent on any substance with a narcotic or intoxicating effect, and (3) that you are mentally stable and not inclined to violence.

You will need the following documents:

1. Download and complete the SAPS 271 form from the SAPS website (use black ink),
2. Motivation dependent on the purpose you need the firearm for (this is often attached as an additional document rather than filled in on the field in the 271 form),
3. Certified copy of your ID,
4. Two colour passport photos,
5. Copy of your competency certificate,
6. R168 cash payment fee if the year is 2023 (ask on the Firearms Policy Campaign’s Facebook group if it is no longer 2023).
7. Three character references from friends and family that have known you at least a few years. One should be from a person that lives with you, otherwise you may use a friend or colleague if you live alone.

Note: Your DFO will probably ask for proof of address to make sure you live in the area they are responsible for, and also for photos of your safe showing that you have it and that it is properly installed. They do this because they do not have the resources to carry out official inspections as they are required.

1. Download and complete the SAPS 518(g) form from the SAPS website (use black ink),
2. Certified copy of your ID,
3. Certified copies of your proficiency certificate and statement of results,
4. Copy of your previous/existing competency certificate,
5. Two colour passport photos,
6. R84 cash payment fee if the year is 2023 (ask on the Firearms Policy Campaign’s Facebook group if it is no longer 2023).
7. Three character references from friends and family that have known you at least a few years. One should be from a person that lives with you, otherwise you may use a friend or colleague if you live alone.

Note: Your DFO will probably ask for proof of address to make sure you live in the area that they are responsible for. They do this because they do not have the resources to carry out official inspections as they are required. Your DFO will also explain how they want the character references. Some DFOs want affidavits, others want phone numbers for a telephone interview, and some will want a physical interview. The purpose of this interview is to confirm that you are (1) a fit and proper person to possess a firearm, (2) not dependent on any substance with a narcotic or intoxicating effect, and (3) that you are mentally stable and not inclined to violence.