Apply for a Firearms Permit
Permit for the acquisition and possession of firearms pursuant to § 10 of the Weapons Act (WaffG) – e.g., for hunters, sport shooters, or collectors.
How to proceed
- 1
Demonstrate need
Hunting license (hunter), membership in a shooting club, or proof of collection.
- 2
Submit documents
Demonstrate reliability, suitability, and need.
- 3
Submit an application to the firearms authority
Public Order Office / Firearms Authority of the county where you reside.
Required documents
- Hunting license or sport shooting certificationMandatory
- Certificate of Good ConductMandatory
- Medical certificate of fitnessMandatoryOften forgotten
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 months
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • No secure storage (gun safe) available
- • Forgot the doctor's note
Common reasons for rejection
- • Need not demonstrated
- • Reliability or suitability denied
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals who have a legitimate need for a firearm (hunting, sports, collecting) and have demonstrated personal suitability.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 months
Success rate
approx. 73.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •No secure storage (gun safe) available
- •Forgot the doctor's note
Common reasons for rejection
- •Need not demonstrated
- •Reliability or suitability denied
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Questions & Answers
Is the WBK valid nationwide?▼
Yes, the gun ownership permit is valid nationwide.