Those under 18 years of age are not permitted to bring firearms into Canada or to acquire firearms by any means, even as a gift, but they are allowed to use them under some circumstances.

A minor’s licence permits the borrowing of non-restricted firearms (ordinary rifles and shotguns) for the following activities:

1. Target practice

2. Organized shooting competitions

3. Hunting

4. Being instructed in the use of firearms

A minor’s licence also permits the acquisition of ammunition, unless there is an age restriction under provincial or territorial law.

As a general rule, the following requirements must be met:

The applicant must be at least 12 years old. If they are younger than 12, they may obtain a minor’s licence only if they are Canadian residents and their Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) determines they need to hunt or trap to sustain themselves or their family.

As per section 7 of the Firearms Act. Individuals under 18 must complete the Canadian Firearms Safety Course and pass the test in order to get a licence. They are not eligible to challenge and attempt to pass the test without taking the course.

Individuals younger than 18 years of age are not eligible to hold a licence authorizing them to possess prohibited or restricted firearms.

A licence application (form RCMP 5485) can be obtained by contacting the relevant CFO. Non-residents can contact the CFO of the province or territory where they will most likely use the firearm.

A Firearms Officer may interview the applicant or their parent or guardian, who must first agree and consent to the conditions under which the minor may use firearms, before a minor’s licence will be issued.

Conditions may be placed on the license. For example some supervision may be required when the minor uses a firearm.

The minor’s licence will expire on the holder’s 18th birthday or the expiry date shown on their license, whichever comes first.