Hampshire Constabulary

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Getting a Certificate

Before applying for a certificate it is advisable to take advice from other shooters to enable you to give consideration as to what type of certificate you require.

Application forms can be obtained either by downloading them from the Application Forms page, or direct from the Firearms & Explosives Licensing Branch by sending an email request to firearms.licensing@hampshire.pnn.police.uk You may also obtain these documents by telephoning the Firearms Licensing Department on 01962 871019.

You may wish to take up shooting as a hobby or indeed you may require a gun to use as part of your trade. Also you may consider it useful to attend some form of training course to give you not only practical advice but also the foundations of firearms legislation.

Once you have an application form, you should complete the form and return it to the following address:
Licensing Office
Hampshire Police Headquarters
FREEPOST SO4392
Winchester
Hampshire
SO22 5BR

It is important that you answer all of the questions on the form. This will avoid any unnecessary delays in dealing with the application.

Four passport-sized photographs are required to be submitted with each application, two of which need to be signed on the back as per below:

One by the countersignatory or referee, saying:
'I certify that this is a current true likeness of...[name of applicant]Signed:Dated: '

And, one signed by the applicant.

Shotgun applications need to be countersigned by a person who has known you for at least two years (see the reverse of the application form for full details).

Firearm applications (renewals and grants) will need to be accompanied by two referees who endorse the application. Each referee must also fully complete a Reference Form (.pdf, 40KB) and send it direct to the Licensing Office. Each referee must sign a photograph each as above example.