How to get a gun licence (PAL) in BC

Possession and Acquisition Licence, non-restricted and restricted · Outdoors · British Columbia

Facts checked 7 September 2026

Own or buy a rifle or shotgun in Canada. Take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course, pass its tests, then apply to the RCMP and wait at least 28 days.

How long

1–3 months

Cost

$70.38

Non-restricted PAL: $70.38 · Restricted RPAL: $93.84 · Card renewal: $70.38 (every 5 years) · Checked 2026-09-07

Who issues it

RCMP

Where to take the course: 2 providers

Silvercore Advanced Training Systems BC Firearms Academy View all course details ↓

THE ROUTE

The route at a glance

Click any step below to open detailed requirements, waiting periods, and official guidelines.

COURSES & TRAINING

Certified CFSC / CRFSC Course Providers

Accredited training providers, courses, and exam providers recognized in British Columbia.

Silvercore Advanced Training Systems

Delta / Surrey / Lower Mainland, BC · Certified

In-Person

Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC / CRFSC Combined)

Duration:2 days (weekend)

Tuition / Fee:$269

Silvercore official combined CFSC/CRFSC course fee

Visit Course Website

BC Firearms Academy

Surrey / Lower Mainland, BC · Certified

In-Person

Combined Firearms Safety Course (CFSC & CRFSC)

Duration:2 days

Tuition / Fee:$270

BC Firearms Academy official combined CFSC/CRFSC course fee

Visit Course Website

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Common questions

How much does a gun licence cost in BC?

The RCMP fee is $70.38 for a non-restricted PAL and $93.84 for a restricted PAL. The safety course is extra; each school sets its own fee.

How long does it take to get a gun licence in BC?

Typically 1 to 3 months. Federal law mandates a 28-day statutory waiting period from the date the RCMP receives your application before processing and background checks can be completed.

How old do you have to be to get a gun licence in BC?

18 years old. You must be at least 18 to apply for an adult Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). Minors aged 12 to 17 can apply for a [minor's firearms licence](/licences/minors-firearms-licence-bc) for target shooting or hunting under adult supervision.

Can I get a handgun (restricted) licence in BC?

You can take the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) and obtain a restricted licence endorsement on your PAL; see our complete guide on [how to get a restricted firearms licence (RPAL) in BC](/licences/restricted-firearms-licence-rpal-bc). However, federal regulations currently place a national freeze on purchasing, selling, or transferring handguns in Canada.

OFFICIAL SOURCES

Official application portals & fee schedules

Verified government sources and direct links to apply.

Official Portal

RCMP Canadian Firearms Program: Canadian Residents

Royal Canadian Mounted Police

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