Firearms safety course

I’m applying for a firearms licence for the first time 

You need to complete the Firearms Safety Course

I’m applying for a firearms licence for the first time and I live in a remote, isolated area 

You need to complete either the Firearms Safety Course or the Whakatūpato programme.  

I already have a firearms licence but I need to apply for a new one 

Police will advise if you need to complete the Firearms Safety Course or the firearms safety test when you apply for your firearms licence. 

I’ve had a firearms licence before and I am applying for one again 

Police will tell you if you need to complete the Firearms Safety Course or the firearms safety test when you apply for your firearms licence. 

I’ve completed the Whakatūpato course 

As long as your Whakatūpato certificate still within 12 months from the date of issue, you don’t need to do the Firearms Safety Course before you apply for a firearms license.

I’ve completed the Firearms Safety Programme (passed the theory test at AA or VTNZ and attended a practical course) 

You don’t need to do the Firearms Safety Course before you apply for a firearms licence. 

Booking your course

Before you book

• You need to have applied for your firearms licence with NZ Police and received your unique ID number. Find out how to apply here: Apply for a firearms licence
• You need to study the Firearms Safety e-Learning online modules and the Arms Code thoroughly before attending. You can find these here: e-learning and Arms Code.
• The course takes three and a half hours, so make sure you allow for this when you book.

How to book online

You will book your theory test and practical training together as the Firearms Safety Course.

You can book online through www.firearmsafety.org.nz to attend a Firearms Safety Course in your area.The booking service is administered by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC).

• On the MSC booking service website, click on the Book Now button for the course in your area and follow the steps on screen. It is recommended that you create a login and password so you can cancel or change your course date or location at a later date if you need to.
• Enter the ID printed on your firearms confirmation letter*(issued by Police).
• Please note on the booking form if you have any special requirements (especially regarding attempting the written theory test).

Other ways to book a Firearms Safety Course:

Alternatively, you can send an email to firearms@mountainsafety.org.nz to book on a course that’s convenient for you.

The booking service is administered by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council.

You will be sent reminders to attend the course before the scheduled course date.

Course locations and upcoming courses

A list of locations and dates of upcoming courses for Firearms Safety Courses can be found at www.firearmsafety.org.nz

Course content

1. Firearms theory test | 30 minutes | Language: English

You will sit the theory test before undertaking the firearms practical training session.

Everything you need to know to pass the firearms theory test is in the 2013 Arms Code. You can read it online, or print a copy. It is not difficult to pass the firearms theory test if you study the Arms Code thoroughly - don’t just read it once.

Reading or language difficulties?
You can ask for extra time to complete the firearms theory test, or for the theory test to be read to you by your course instructor.

Re-sitting the theory test
If you don’t pass the firearms theory test on your first attempt before the start of the firearms practical training session, you will be given a second opportunity to sit the test after the completion of the practical session.

When you pass the firearms theory test, your course instructor will record the result on your Firearms Safety Programme confirmation letter.

If you don’t pass the firearms theory test on your second attempt, Police will let you know what should happen next.

2. Firearms practical training session

The firearms practical training session covers safe handling and use of firearms. Your firearms instructor will work with you during the course to help you with any firearms handling or safety concerns.

During the session you will have an opportunity to practice the following:

• State and apply the seven basic rules of firearms safety.
• Identify the main components of a firearm.
• Demonstrate safety precautions and states of readiness on various firearm types.
• Know how to safely cross a fence and how to safely use a transit case/bag to transport firearms.

Firearms safety e-learning
Arms Code
Firearms Safety Course booking service