Apply for a SAPS Competency Certificate
Before you can legally possess, use, or deal in firearms in South Africa, you must hold a valid SAPS Competency Certificate. At Ballistic Guns & Ammo, we are here to guide and assist you through the entire competency application process.
What is a Competency Certificate?
A Competency Certificate is issued by SAPS and confirms that you are legally competent to possess and use a firearm. It is a prerequisite for any firearm licence application in terms of the Firearms Control Act (Act 60 of 2000).
Competency certificates are issued for the following purposes:
- Possession of a firearm
- Use of a firearm (hunting, sport shooting, self-defence)
- Business purposes (dealers, manufacturers, gunsmiths)
Documents Required
To apply for a SAPS Competency Certificate, please prepare the following:
- Copy of your South African ID document
- Proof of Residence (not older than 3 months)
- Proof of completion of a recognised Firearms Training Course (practical & theoretical — must be SAPS-accredited)
- Completed SAPS 520 form (we will assist you with this)
How We Assist You
- Submit your documents to us via the contact form or email below.
- We will help you complete the SAPS 520 application form.
- The completed form and documents will be couriered to your address for submission at your nearest SAPS firearms office.
Submit Your Documents
Email your documents to Charne@ballisticguns.co.za with the subject line: Competency Application – [Your Full Name]
All applications are subject to SAPS approval. Ballistic Guns & Ammo assists with the application process only and cannot guarantee the outcome of any SAPS decision.