Firearms Licence
Firearms Licence in Canada is also known as PAL (Possession and Acquisition Licence). Once issued, it is valid for period of 5 years and must be renewed before expiration date in order to maintain a valid continuity.
As per Canadian Firearms Act, firearms are classified in three main categories:
(a) Non Restricted Firearms
These are the firearms mainly used for hunting and or target shooting. This category includes Long Guns eg. Rifles and Shot Guns. Canadian Firearm Safety Course (CFSC) is required to obtain a PAL for Non-Restricted Firearms.
(b) Restricted Firearms
These are the firearms strictly used for the purpose of target shooting only with the exception of employment. Firearms included in this category are mainly Handguns eg. Revolvers and Pistols. Those who are looking to apply for job with CBSA, Conservation Officers, Armored Car Industry etc. are required to be certified for this category. Canadian Restricted Firearm Safety Course (CRFSC) is required to obtain a PAL for Restricted Firearms (R-PAL).
(c) Prohibited Firearms
PAL for Prohibited Firearms is no longer issued to a fresh applicant and they can only be grandfathered.
CORE (Hunting Licence)
Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Education (CORE) is required to obtain a Hunter Number and thereby obtain a Hunting Licence to hunt legally in British Columbia and further in Canada.