Firearms Courses FAQ
Q What does P.A.L. mean?
Posession and Aquisition License
Q Do I need a P.A.L. to own a firearm?
Yes. A P.A.L. is a license to possess or acquire a firearm in any way shape or form in this Canada . The
P.A.L. came into being in 2001. The only exception would be for “Training purposes”, and the trainee must
be under direct supervision of a legal firearm owner.
Q How old do I have to be to get a P.A.L. and own my own firearm?
18 years old.
Q Do First Nations people have to get a P.A.L. also?
Yes. Everyone in Canada must now be licensed in order to POSSESS or ACQUIRE a firearm, and to buy
ammunition
Q What is a “Minors License”?
Children from 12 to 18 years of age can pass the Canadian Firearms Safety Course and apply for a Minors license, which allows the youth to “Possess” but not buy or own a firearm. This is for hunting, target practice, competition, and instruction in firearm use. You may also purchase ammunition under this license, unless Provincial or Territorial law prohibits it. A minors’ permit may be allowed for a “Sustenance” hunter without having to take the course. This is usually in remote areas only.
Q Does a PAL include restricted firearms?
No. You must have an additional “Restricted” certification on your PAL, (RPAL) to own restricted firearms; typically handguns.
Q If I have a handgun legally can I take it with me into the bush?
No! Only a few people for whom are deemed necessary for their work, and have a permit to carry a handgun in the woods, are allowed to do this. and they must be issued a special “Carry permit”.
Q If I have a hunting license does this allow me to have and carry a firearm?
No. Hunting licenses are Provincial, and firearms are controlled federally. The firearms safety component of the CORE program does not give you a P.A.L.
Q Do I need a P.A.L. to buy a crossbow?
No. Bows are not considered firearms. Note however, that bows under 500 mm. in length and able to be shot with one hand, are prohibited!
Q How long does a P.A.L. last?
5 years, at which time you need to renew it with a new picture of yourself, and updated info…much like a driver’s license.
Q Do I have to retake to course again every five years?
No. You only have to take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course once in a lifetime, but you must retain a copy of your paperwork verifying that you have successfully completed it. If you lose your paperwork (Report form), the Canadian Firearms Centre may not have copies of your records.
Q If I had an old F.A.C. (Firearms acquisition certificate) can I apply for a P.A.L.
Yes, but only if you took the Canadian Firearms Safety Course to get it. The very early FAC’s only required a criminal record check to get one, ensuring that you were not a criminal of violent crime.
Q If I take the course with you, do you sell the appropriate manuals needed?
No. I have loaners for you to use. You may purchase your own from Mosaic Books in Kelowna. They usually cost approximately $22 – $25.
Q Do I have to study the manual before the course?
It is not a requirement for my classes, as I assume with work you may not have the time. To a large extent studying will be based upon your learning style, and you will know best.
Q Do you use movies as an instructional aid in the class?
Yes. Audio Visual is an important part of the course delivery. We use power point and overhead projectors for ease of learning, and lots of “Hands on” with ammunition and firearms.
Q How long is the course?
The Government requires that the absolute minimum number of hours for the course delivery is 8.
Q How long is the “restricted” (RPAL) course?
The minimum number of hours for delivery of the “Restricted” is four (4). Note: You must have successfully completed the Canadian Firearms Safety Course |(Non-restricted) before you may take the “Restricted” (RPAL) component.
Q How long will it take to get my PAL?
3 to 6 months at present, though it may be faster if you apply online.
Q Do I have to register my firearms?
The “Long gun” registry was done away with in 2012. The “Restricted” Firearms Registry has been in place for many decades, and remains.
Q If I fail, can I re-write?
Yes. However you will be well prepared for the tests, and I have found failures to be few in our classes.
Q If a student has a learning disability are there any assists available?
The written test can be given orally. Note: Interpreters are no longer permitted for those with language barriers, as per Canadian Firearms Centre ruling.
Q If my P.A.L. has expired, can | send in a completed “Renewal” form to the Canadian Firearms Centre?
No. You must now complete a “Long” form application for a P.A.L. just as if you were a first time applicant.
Q Are gift certificates available?
Certainly.
Q Are Fees refundable?
Course fees are generally non-refundable, with some exceptions. See our “Cancellation policy” for more info.
Q Where do I get more information?
For further and more legal descriptions of the applicable laws and rules governing firearms, please consult the Canadian Firearms Centre on the web. With its very informative site.
Q How do I find out class dates? How do I register for a class?
Go to our CLASS SCHEDULE and “Registration” page
Q How do I pay for a class?
Cash payments may be made in person if you arrange a meeting though e-transfers are preferred. I have auto deposit.
Q How will I know that I am registered for a class?
You will be sent an email confirmation within a few days.
Q What if I don’t have an email address?
We can confirm via text messaging or phone.
Q What if the class is full?
We will provide you with the next class dates.
Q Where do I go for the classes?
Room 239 @1889 Springfield Road. Use the Spall Road entrance. I am located above the “Bulk food store”.
Q After enrolling in a class can I change my mind?
Course fees are generally non-refundable, with some exceptions. See our “Cancellation policy” for more info.
Q Where do I find more info?
For further and more legal descriptions of the applicable laws and rules governing firearms, please consult the Canadian Firearms Centre on their very informative web site.
Course Description
The Canadian Firearms Safety Course requires training in the following areas:
- The Acts and Prove system
- Firearms history
- Black Powder
- Ammunition
- Sight types
- Firing positions
- Transportation and storage
- Firearms classifications
- Social responsibilities as a firearms user
- Legal requirements and penalties overview
- Practical gun handling