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 18 | Under 17 | Under 15 | Under 14 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Purchase any |
||||
|
Possess |
1,2,3 (see below) | |||
|
Receive gift of |
||||
|
Possess assembled |
4,5 (see below) | 4,5 (see below) | ||
|
Receive shotgun |
||||
|
Possess |
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 |
Exemptions
- Carry for sporting purpose
- Rifle/Pistol Club or cadet corps
- Miniature rifle range
- Under supervision of someone 21 years or over
- Secure gun cover
- 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.