Firearms and Explosives Licensing
The Police Scotland Firearm and Explosives Licensing function performs an important role across Scotland with licensing staff based in Aberdeen, Dumfries, Dundee, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Glenrothes, and Inverness.
Our administrative function is supported by Firearm Enquiry Officers who carry out enquiry and visits to existing and future certificate holders across Scotland.
Within this area you will find information on:
- Applications and guidance for Firearms and Shotguns
- Applications and guidance for Air Weapons
- Applications and guidance for Explosives
- Applications and guidance for Registered Firearms Dealers
- Applications and guidance for Clubs
- Applications and guidance for Visitor Permits and 11(6) Authorities
- Guidance for Snares and Weapon Transfers
- Frequently Asked Questions (covering all areas above)
If in doubt you can contact your local Firearms Licensing Processing Centre by email/telephone with any queries you may have, details can be found in the PDF document at the bottom of this page.
Our phone lines will only be open to receive calls between 0900hrs and 1200hrs Monday to Friday.
User Satisfaction Survey
National Firearms and Explosives Licensing are currently conducting a user satisfaction survey. If you had reason to contact one of our firearms licensing processing centres can you take 5 minutes of your time to complete the survey here.
Statistical Publications
Firearms Licensing Annual Statistical Publication 2019 - 2020
Firearms Licensing Annual Statistical Publication 2018 - 2019
Offensive Weapons Act surrender and compensation scheme
As part of the government’s priority to keep people safe, the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 made it unlawful to possess certain rapid firing rifles and bump stocks.
The Offensive Weapons Act surrender and compensation scheme is now live and will run from 10 December 2020 to 9 March 2021. Further information on compensation and how to claim can be found on the Home Office website.
