Firearms and explosives licensing

In this section you'll find application information and guidance about:

• Snares and weapon transfers
• Firearms and shotguns
• Explosives
• Registered firearms dealers
• Clubs
• Air weapons
• Visitor Permits and 11(6) Authorities
• Frequently asked questions.

Police Scotland Firearm and Explosives Licensing team perform an important role across Scotland. There are licensing staff based in Aberdeen, Dumfries, Dundee, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Glenrothes, and Inverness.

They are supported by Firearm Enquiry Officers. They carry out enquiries and visits to existing and future certificate holders across Scotland.

If in doubt you can contact your local Firearms Licensing Processing Centre as shown below. They can be contacted by email or telephone with any queries you may have. Our phone lines will only be open to receive calls between 9am and 12pm, Monday to Friday.

Home Office Guidance

Up to date information can be found on the Home Office Guidance page regarding

• Guide on firearms licensing law
• Statutory guidance for police on firearms licensing
• Firearms security handbook

Statistical Publications

• Firearms Licensing Annual Statistical Publication 2020 - 2021
• Firearms Licensing Annual Statistical Publication 2019 - 2020
• Firearms Licensing Annual Statistical Publication 2018 - 2019

Firearms Licensing User Satisfaction Survey Results

• Firearms Licensing User Satisfaction Survey Results 2019/20
• Firearms Licensing User Satisfaction Survey Results 2020/21

Related Documents

• Processing centre contacts
• Notification of Authorised Shoot - Pest Control