Firearm training course necessary for licence?

Curse These Metal Hands · 06-12-2025 10:03PM #1

Saw a debate raging online about whether you need to do a training course or not to obtain a gun licence in Ireland.

I know the Garda form asks for proof of competency, but I always thought that this could be demonstrated by being a member of a club.

Does anyone know if training is absolutely mandatory?

Cass · 06-12-2025 10:38PM

A competency course is one of four ways to show competence to AGS.

The three other methods are:

Hold or have held a training certificate prior to applying.
Have previous experience with firearms (ownership/licensed abroad, defence forces, law enforcement, via your profession, etc.)
Letters of support from other persons that are currently licensed on firearms.

You must show competence and it is a mandatory step in the process, for first time licensees, but saying only one is acceptable is incorrect.

john_aero · 09-12-2025 11:42AM

if its your first license then yes, easy go and not that dear.

If have a license just mention in the training section that you are a current license holder number xxxxx

Shooting Forum - Firearms licencing information