Shotgun and firearms applicants to face stronger safety checks

The Home Office has announced that people applying for a firearm or shotgun certificate will face stronger safety checks, under new rules that will be coming into force to help keep the public safe. The UK already has some of Europe's strictest firearms licensing rules.

 

Applicants will soon be required to declare any second home(s) where firearms could be stored, enabling police to conduct appropriate security checks and notify the relevant force where necessary.

 

You also need to tell police about all people living in their household so they can identify any wider safety concerns, including risks linked to domestic abuse or mental wellbeing.

 

The Home Office says that further measures will strengthen medical checks throughout the five-year life of a firearm or shotgun certificate. Certificate holders will be required to tell police if they are diagnosed with, or receive treatment for, a relevant medical condition, or if an existing condition gets worse. 

 

You will also need to inform police if you seek treatment or advice from an online or private doctor rather than your GP, helping ensure licensing decisions are based on the most up-to-date information available.

 

A one-month transition period applies from 29 September 2026, during which applicants will still be able to submit existing application forms. From 29 October 2026, only the revised forms will be accepted.