How to Get a Shotgun Certificate in the UK: Complete 2026 Guide
How to Get a Shotgun Certificate in the UK: Complete 2026 Guide
Applying for a shotgun certificate is one of the first steps into British game shooting, clay pigeon shooting, or pest control — and it is far less daunting than most people expect. This guide covers every stage of the process, from initial application to receiving your certificate, based on official Home Office guidance, BASC resources, and the practical experiences shared by hundreds of applicants.
What Is a Shotgun Certificate?
A shotgun certificate (SGC) is a licence issued by your local police force that permits you to possess, purchase, and use shotguns in England, Scotland, and Wales. It is a legal requirement under the Firearms Act 1968 — possessing a shotgun without a valid certificate is a serious criminal offence.
A shotgun certificate covers smooth-bore guns with a barrel length of at least 24 inches and an overall length of at least 40 inches, with a non-detachable magazine that holds no more than two cartridges. Anything outside these parameters typically requires a firearms certificate instead.
Who Can Apply?
You must be 18 or over to hold a shotgun certificate (14-17 year olds can hold a certificate with restrictions). You must be a UK resident. There is no requirement to demonstrate a specific “good reason” for wanting a shotgun — unlike firearms certificate applications — though you must satisfy the police that you can be permitted to possess a shotgun without danger to public safety.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Form 201
Download Form 201 from your local police force website or the GOV.UK website. Some forces also accept online applications through their own portals. BASC members can access guidance notes that walk through each section of the form.
Step 2: Arrange Secure Storage
You will need a gun cabinet (safe) that meets British Standard BS 7558. This means a steel cabinet bolted to a solid wall or floor, with a key lock or combination lock. Budget £200-500 for a compliant cabinet depending on size and quality.
The cabinet must be installed before the Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO) visits your home. Common placement is a bedroom cupboard, under-stairs area, or dedicated gun room. The FEO will check that it is properly secured and not in an obvious location.
Key point from applicant forums: Install the cabinet early. A significant number of delayed applications stem from cabinets not being ready at the time of the FEO visit.
Step 3: GP Medical Disclosure
Since 2021, all shotgun certificate applications require a medical disclosure from your GP. Your police force will contact your GP surgery directly, or you may need to provide a signed medical consent form. Some GP practices charge a fee for this (typically £20-40, though some charge more).
The disclosure covers conditions that may affect your fitness to possess a shotgun, including severe depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and certain neurological conditions. Having a condition does not automatically disqualify you — it initiates a conversation with the licensing department.
Step 4: Passport Photos and Countersignatory
You will need four passport-style photographs, one of which must be countersigned by a person of standing who has known you for at least two years. This is the same countersignatory process used for passport applications.
Step 5: Referees
Provide details of two referees who have known you for at least two years. They cannot be family members or police officers. The FEO may contact them by phone or visit them in person. Forum consensus suggests choosing referees who will be available and responsive — slow referee replies are a common cause of delays.
Step 6: Submit and Pay
Submit your completed Form 201 to your local police firearms licensing department along with the £79.50 fee (2026). Payment methods vary by force — most accept online payment, cheque, or postal order.
Step 7: Firearms Enquiry Officer Visit
An FEO will arrange a home visit to:
- Inspect your gun cabinet and its installation
- Discuss your application and reasons for wanting a shotgun
- Verify your identity
- Assess the security of your property
Applicant experiences consistently describe this as a friendly, informal conversation rather than an interrogation. The FEO is checking that you are a responsible person with adequate security — they are not looking for reasons to refuse.
Step 8: Receive Your Certificate
If approved, your shotgun certificate will be posted to you. It is valid for five years and permits you to possess an unlimited number of shotguns (each must be listed on the certificate by adding them at a registered firearms dealer).
Costs Summary
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Shotgun certificate (new) | £79.50 |
| Shotgun certificate (renewal) | £49.00 |
| Gun cabinet (BS 7558 compliant) | £200-500 |
| GP medical fee (varies by surgery) | £0-50 |
| Passport photos | £5-10 |
| Total first-time cost | ~£300-650 |
Common Reasons for Delays
Based on applicant experiences shared across forums and BASC guidance:
- Gun cabinet not installed at time of FEO visit
- Unresponsive referees — choose people who will reply promptly
- GP surgery delays in processing medical disclosures
- Incomplete form — double-check every section before submitting
- Seasonal backlogs — applications peak in late summer before the shooting season
After You Receive Your Certificate
With your shotgun certificate in hand, you can purchase a shotgun from any registered firearms dealer. The dealer will record the shotgun’s details on your certificate. You must notify the police within seven days of acquiring or disposing of any shotgun.
If you are new to shooting, consider booking a lesson at a local clay pigeon ground before purchasing. Most grounds have hire guns available, and an experienced instructor will help you understand what type and gauge of shotgun suits your build and intended use.
The Bottom Line
The shotgun certificate process is administrative rather than adversarial. The vast majority of applications are approved. Prepare your secure storage, arrange the GP disclosure early, choose responsive referees, and complete the form carefully. Most applicants report that the reality is far simpler than the anticipation suggests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a shotgun certificate?
The Home Office target is 8 weeks, but in practice most applicants report 8-12 weeks. Some police forces take longer during busy periods (autumn before the shooting season). First-time applications generally take longer than renewals.
How much does a shotgun certificate cost?
A new shotgun certificate costs £79.50 (2026). Renewals cost £49. You will also need to budget for a gun cabinet (£200-500), GP medical disclosure (some GPs charge a fee), and passport photos.
Can I be refused a shotgun certificate?
Yes. Common grounds for refusal include certain criminal convictions, medical conditions that affect safety (severe depression, substance abuse), domestic violence history, or inadequate secure storage. You have the right to appeal a refusal to the Crown Court.
Do I need a reason to own a shotgun?
Unlike a firearms certificate, you do not need to demonstrate a specific 'good reason' for a shotgun certificate. However, you must not pose a danger to public safety and must have secure storage. Most applicants mention sporting clays, game shooting, or pest control.