As most firearm owners are aware, a firearm competency is required before an application can be submitted to SAPS for a firearm license. It is critical for firearm owners to ensure that both competencies and licenses are renewed before they expire. The Act states that renewal applications for both need to be submitted 90 days before the date of expiration.
Expired firearm licenses have been the topic of conversation within the firearms industry and amongst firearm owners themselves. There is no clear way forward on this yet, but firearm owners are encouraged to not only remember to renew their firearm licenses, but also to ensure that their firearm competencies remain current.
The competency testing process was introduced in 2004 when the amendments to the Firearm Control Act 60/2000 were implemented by the state. Changes were made to the process along the way and depending on when the process was completed by the firearm owner, these competencies may now possibly have expired. It is important to note that one cannot renew a firearm license without a valid and current firearm competency for the type of firearm you will be re-licensing. Some competencies will be valid for 5 years from date of issue and some for 10 years. You will find the issue date on your competency certificate or card. If you are not sure as to whether your competency is valid for five or ten years, you can contact your local DFO and they will be able to check for you.
The following is required for firearm competency renewal:
If you require assistance with your competency renewal or new application for competency and firearm license, simply contact us.
Article published in the Krugersdorp News, Roodepoort Record, Randfontein Herald & Get it Joburg West, 2018
