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Firearms Licensing for Young People

The firearms law is different in relation to young people.

The table below is based on the Home Office Guide on Firearms Licencing Law 2015 and indicates the rules for young people using and possessing firearms and shotguns.

Under 18Under 17Under 15Under 14

Purchase any
firearm or
ammunition

Possess
section 1 firearm

Exemptions

1,2,3 (see below)

Receive gift of
section 1 firearm

Possess assembled
shot gun

Exemptions

4,5 (see below)

4,5 (see below)

Receive shotgun
as gift

Possess
air weapon

Exemptions

2,3,4,6 (see below)

2,3,4,6 (see below)

2,3,4,6 (see below)

2,3,4,6 (see below)

Receive air
weapons as gift

Exemptions

  1. Carry for sporting purpose
  2. Rifle/Pistol Club or cadet corps
  3. Miniature rifle range
  4. Under supervision of someone 21 years or over
  5. Secure gun cover
  6. On private land with the consent of the occupier

Please note: Even if a young person is eligible to receive a weapon as a gift, they must hold the relevant certificate to do so.