On 5 August 2025, the Home Office statutory guidance in respect of firearms was updated, replacing the previous version from 14 February 2023.
The new statutory guidance can be read in full Read the new statutory guidance.
Key changes
Within the new guidance, the Home Office has advised that applicants for shotgun certificates and renewals will need to obtain two referees, who have known them for a period of two years. Previously this has just been one. This change brings shotgun referee checks in line with other firearm types.
In addition, police must now speak to partners and household members to identify any signs of domestic abuse or any other factors which could indicate that the applicant is not suitable to hold a firearms licence. Domestic abuse now includes controlling or coercive behaviour, economic abuse, and emotional or psychological abuse.
Firearms licensing teams carrying out additional checks before approving a licence, will ensure those who have committed criminal offences or are associated with serious criminality, or have a record of violence are not permitted to access firearms.
The guidance provides clarity for police to refuse or revoke certificates particularly in the case of criminal offences involving violence. Guilty pleas and out of court disposal will also be taken into consideration, along with speeding, fixed penalty notices, and cautions.
Any evidence of dishonesty or concerns about an applicant’s integrity, including the applicant withholding details in relation to a health condition or lying on their application form, will be relevant factors in assessing the applicant’s suitability to hold a firearms licence.
The firearms licensing departments will also now routinely check social media activity as part of their assessment of suitability.
The guidance sets out clearly that any evidence suggesting a person is not fit to possess a firearm will be considered on the “balance of probabilities”.
Progress
The new guidance is more rigorous on assessing suitability as to whether the applicant can be permitted to possess a firearm without danger to public safety or to the peace.
These changes apply to new applications and renewals, across England, Wales and Scotland (although air rifles in Scotland are administered separately).
For guidance on any of the changes relating to Firearms Licensing, please contact one of our expert emergency services solicitors.
