FIREARM LICENSE PRO SAHome › Renewal date checker
When must I renew my firearm licence?
Enter one date and see the last day to hand in your renewal. Free, and it takes a minute. SAPS sends no reminders, and a licence that runs out is no longer a licence.
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- Last day to hand in: 90 days before the expiry date. Section 24 of the Firearms Control Act requires the renewal to be lodged at least 90 days before the licence expires.
- Best time to start: six months before expiry, so there is time to renew the competency, certify copies and see your Designated Firearm Officer.
- From the issue date, the expiry is the issue date plus the period for the section. If the expiry date is printed on your licence, use that one.
The full renewal guide →
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Frequently asked questions
When must I renew my firearm licence in South Africa?
At least 90 days before the expiry date printed on the licence (section 24 of the Firearms Control Act). Starting six months before is comfortable, because the competency, certified copies and a DFO appointment all take time.
How long is a firearm licence valid?
Section 13 self-defence: 5 years. Section 14 restricted self-defence: 2 years. Sections 15, 16, 17 and 19: 10 years. Section 20 business: 5 years (10 for a business in hunting). The expiry date on your own licence is what counts.
Do I renew my competency too?
Yes. A competency stays valid for as long as the licence it relates to, so it runs out on the same date. Renew the competency (SAPS 517(g)) and the licence (SAPS 518(a)) together.
Does this checker store my details?
No. The dates are worked out on your own phone or computer and nothing is sent to us. The reminder is a calendar entry you save yourself.
This is general information about South African firearm law, not legal advice, and we are not SAPS. The expiry date on your own licence is the one that counts.
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Firearm License Pro SA builds your complete SAPS-ready application from the details on your profile, the correct SAPS form, a motivation letter written for your section, and a checklist of the supporting documents you need for a firearm licence renewal. You check it, print it, and hand it in.
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