Questions about Firearms License Renwals and Expiration in Canada
How often do I have to renew my firearms license?
About every 5 years. The actual date is (or will be) printed on your card. Most licenses expire on your birthday rather than an anniversary of when they were issued. This is nice because it makes it much easier to remember. You should always apply for a renewal long before you license expires. You can generally renew licenses online.
Will they send me a notice when my firearms license is going to expire?
Don't expect it. Mark down in your calendar several months before your license expires to renew. Some people will tell you that the RCMP CFP does not send our renewal notices, others will tell you they do.
If you're close, please renew your licenses online now!
How much does it cost to renew a firearms license?
The renewal fees are the same as the application fees. At the time of writing it's $61.32 to renew a standard PAL.
How do I renew my firearms license?
It's easy, just use the RCMP CFP's firearms licenses renwal website.
If you don't want to, or can't renew online, you can renew using a paper "RCMP 5614 / CAFC 979" form you mail in. You can get the latest version of the form here.
Can I renew my firearms license online?
Most people can. The vast majority of people can simply use the RCMP CFP renewal website. However if any of the following applies to you, then you'll have to use a paper application:
- Your license has been expired for more than 6 months
- You can not submit a photograph for religious reasons
- You are renewing a minor's license
- You already have a renewal in progress
If any of those apply to you, or you have a problem with the website you can apply to renew using a paper "RCMP 5614 / CAFC 979" form you mail in. You can get the latest version of the form here.
Can I renew an expired firearms license?
Yes, if it has been expired for less than 6 months you can simply use the RCMP CFP's online renewal website.
If it's been more than 6 months you will have to mail in a paper "RCMP 5614 / CAFC 979" form. You can get the latest version of the form here. However I would recommend calling the RCMP CFP at +1 (800) 731-4000 (Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm) before you try in case you are not eligible, or may be required to take the safety class.