The UK government has announced comprehensive changes to firearms and shotgun licensing fees, marking the first revision since 2015. These changes, effective from 5 February 2025, are designed to achieve full cost recovery for police forces managing the licensing system.

Firearm Certificate Changes

The new fee structure represents significant increases across all certificate types. For firearm certificates, the grant fee will increase from £88 to £198, while renewals will rise from £62 to £131. These changes reflect a 125% increase in grant fees.

Shotgun Certificate Updates

Shotgun certification sees even larger increases, with grant fees rising from £79.50 to £194 (144% increase) and renewals increasing from £49 to £126 (157% increase). Coterminous certificates will now cost £202 for grants and £155 for renewals.

Additional Fee Changes

Registered Firearms Dealers will face increased fees of £466 for both grants and renewals. Other adjustments include £49 for replacement certificates, £47 for firearm certificate variations, and visitor permits ranging from £47 for individuals to £233 for groups.

Implementation Timeline

These new fees take effect from 5 February 2025. Applicants are advised to submit their applications before this date to benefit from current rates. The changes aim to better reflect the actual costs incurred by police forces in processing these applications.