Obtaining your firearms licence.
A practical starting point for adults in Tasmania, from choosing your genuine reason to receiving your licence.
Guide by SHOT · Sources checked 11 September 2026
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This guide covers the usual adult application pathway. Minors, interstate applicants and specialised categories have additional or different requirements. Check the linked Tasmania Police guidance for your circumstances.
Requirements can change. Confirm the current rules with Firearms Services before applying or purchasing.
1. Check that you can apply
For an adult licence you must be at least 18, live in Tasmania and meet the fit and proper person requirements. Read the eligibility criteria before paying for an application.
Check eligibility with Tasmania Police ↗2. Choose your genuine reason and category
Sport or target shooting and recreational hunting are separate genuine reasons. You can apply for both if you meet the requirements for each. Your licence must cover the purpose and category you need; personal protection is not an accepted reason.
Understand genuine reasons ↗3. Gather the supporting documents
For target shooting, check the evidence required for membership of an approved organisation. For hunting, check the accepted proof of permission to hunt on specified land. Gather the evidence for every genuine reason you include.
See the supporting evidence requirements ↗4. Lodge your application
Complete the current form. Take it to Service Tasmania with 100 points of original identification, photocopies for certification, supporting documents and the required fee. Keep copies of what you submit.
Get the current application instructions and fees ↗5. Wait for approval to attend training
Firearms Services will write to you. If approved to enrol, arrange the relevant TasTAFE firearms safety course and complete it within six months of the letter. TasTAFE sends the competency certificate to Firearms Services.
Read the training and approval steps ↗6. Complete verification and receive your licence
When you receive the verification letter, take it and 100 points of original identification to Service Tasmania for your photo. Your photographic licence will then be sent to you. Check its categories, conditions and genuine reasons.
Check the final steps with Firearms Services ↗Common questions
Can I apply for shooting and hunting?
Yes, you can seek more than one genuine reason. Provide the evidence required for each. A target shooting endorsement alone does not authorise recreational hunting.
Should I book training before applying?
Follow the application sequence and wait for the Firearms Services letter approving you to enrol. Keep the letter and act within its timeframe.
What if I am under 18 or already licensed interstate?
Use the separate minor’s permit or interstate licence guidance on the Tasmania Police Firearms Services website. The adult first application process above may not apply.
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