It is getting more and more expensive to arm yourself following the latest hike in firearms application prices. The South African Police published amendments to fees under the Firearms Control Act in May 2023 and firearms owners should be aware of further increases in the coming years. Should that deter you from arming yourself? We believe not, because it would certainly be a case of penny wise, pound foolish.
Violent crime has increased so much that South Africa is now ranked in the top three most violent countries in the world. The latest crime from , paints a very grim picture. During the period from January to March 2025, 5 727 people were murdered – which amounts to 64 per day. According to another police report, more than 45% of murders are committed with a firearm.
With these facts in mind, one has to consider: Can you really afford NOT arming yourself?
Firearms.co.za believes legal firearm ownership is in the best interest of all if we want to see a safer South Africa. In the critical minutes between becoming aware of an intruder until help arrives, yóú are your family’s only line of defence.
Having a gun in South Africa is regulated largely under the Firearms Control Act 2000 that, when introduced, aimed to address the increased availability and abuse of firearms and ammunition in the country that continued high levels of violent crime. The latest price hike is blamed on inflationary pressure.
| Fee payable for | Amount 2022/23 | Amount with CPI 2023/24 4.42% | Amount with CPI 2024/25 4.45% | Amount with CPI 2025/26 4.48% |
| Application for licence to possess a firearm | R161 | R168 | R175 | R183 |
| Application for a competency certificate | R80 | R84 | R88 | R92 |
| Application for a further competencycertificate | R80 | R84 | R88 | R92 |
| Application for a duplicate licence,permit, certificate or authorisation | R80 | R84 | R88 | R92 |
| Application for licence issue to particularcategories of persons – dealers,manufacturers and gunsmiths | R 1 610 | R1681 | R1757 | R1 836 |
| Application for renewal of a licence,permit or authorisation | R80 | R84 | R88 | R92 |
| Application for a temporary authorisationto possess a firearm | R161 | R168 | R175 | R183 |
| Application for renewal of a dealer’s,manufacturer’s or gunsmith’s licence | R805 | R841 | R878 | R917 |
| Application for a temporary authorisationto trade in firearms or ammunition | R632 | R660 | R689 | R720 |
| Application for accreditation | R322 | R336 | R351 | R367 |
| Application for a permanent import orexport permit | R161 | R168 | R175 | R183 |
| Application for an in-transit permit forbusiness purposes | R161 | R168 | R175 | R183 |
| Application for permit to transportfirearms and ammunition | R322 | R336 | R351 | R367 |
| Application for a permit to collectammunition | R161 | R168 | R175 | R183 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearm Licence Costs in South Africa (2025/26)
Q1: How much does it cost to get a firearm licence in South Africa in 2025?
A: The application fee for a firearm licence in 2025/26 is R183. This includes applying to possess a firearm under the Firearms Control Act. Additional fees apply for competency certification and other services.
Q2: What is the cost of a firearm competency certificate in South Africa?
A: The fee for a competency certificate is R92 in 2025/26. If you are applying for a further competency certificate, such as for a different class of firearm, the cost is also R92.
Q3: Do firearm licence fees increase every year?
A: Yes. Firearm application and renewal fees are adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The current structure shows annual increases of around 4.4% to 4.5%.
Q4: Why are firearm application fees increasing?
A: The South African Police Service (SAPS) cites inflationary pressure as the main reason for fee increases. The aim is to align administrative costs with economic conditions.
Q5: Is it still worth applying for a firearm despite the cost?
A: Absolutely. Given South Africa’s rising violent crime rates—where over 45% of murders involve firearms—legal gun ownership remains a crucial step in protecting yourself and your family.
Q6: How long does a firearm licence take to be approved in South Africa?
A: The processing time can vary, but generally takes 90 to 120 days. Delays may occur based on your location, completeness of documentation, and SAPS processing capacity.
Q7: Can I renew my firearm licence, and what does it cost?
A: Yes, you can renew your firearm licence before it expires. In 2025/26, the renewal fee is R92. Be sure to apply for renewal at least 90 days before your current licence expires.
