By Travis Bader, founder of Silvercore Outdoors.
Last updated: 24 October 2026
Yes for a first licence, no at the gun counter. Section 5 of the Firearms Licences Regulations (SOR/98-199), made under the Firearms Act, sets a minimum 28-day waiting period for first-time PAL applicants. Once you hold a valid PAL, buying a non-restricted firearm involves no waiting period beyond the seller obtaining a reference number from the Registrar to confirm your licence. Restricted firearm transfers need Chief Firearms Officer approval and a new registration certificate before the firearm changes hands.
How long is the wait for a PAL?
Plan on two to four months after the RCMP receives a complete application, and three to six months from the day you book your course to the day the card arrives. The Firearms Act sets a minimum 28-day waiting period for first-time applicants, and the Canadian Firearms Program service standard is 35 calendar days to complete the initial review once your application is received. Online applications are processed faster than mailed ones.
Before you apply, you pass the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) for a non-restricted PAL, and the restricted PAL course (CRFSC) as well for a restricted PAL. Firearms Act section 7(1)(a) requires that you pass the tests as administered by an instructor designated by a Chief Firearms Officer. The 28-day minimum is set by section 5 of the Firearms Licences Regulations, made under the Firearms Act: a Chief Firearms Officer "may not issue a licence referred to in subsection 3(1) to an applicant until at least 28 days have elapsed since the application was made," unless the applicant already holds a licence to possess firearms or a firearms acquisition certificate deemed to be a licence. The 28-day wait starts after the application is in, so booking your course early is the one part of the timeline you control.
Is there a waiting period to buy a non-restricted firearm?
No. With a valid PAL, a non-restricted rifle or shotgun can go home with you the day you buy it, once the seller has a reference number. Firearms Act section 23(1) permits the transfer of a non-restricted firearm if, at the time of the transfer:
- (a) the transferee holds a licence authorizing them to acquire and possess a non-restricted firearm;
- (b) the Registrar has, at the transferor's request, issued a reference number for the transfer and provided it to the transferor; and
- (c) the reference number is still valid.
Under section 23(2) you give the seller the prescribed information about your licence. Under section 23(3) the Registrar issues the reference number if satisfied you hold, and are still eligible to hold, a licence to acquire and possess a non-restricted firearm.
The RCMP's buying and selling page adds the practical rules. "The transfer of a non-restricted firearm may take place only after a reference number has been issued." The reference number "is valid for a period of ninety (90) days," or for the remaining validity of your licence if that is shorter. For an in-person sale, the seller confirms identity "by comparing the photograph on the firearms licence with the person presenting the licence."
This applies to private sales too. A buddy selling you his old .22 needs the same reference number a store does.
What about restricted firearms?
Restricted firearm transfers take longer because the Chief Firearms Officer reviews each one. The RCMP states that "all restricted and prohibited firearms must be registered," that the Chief Firearms Officer for the jurisdiction "will review the transfer," and that "a new registration certificate must be issued to the new owner." The firearm "should remain with the transferor (seller) until the transfer is approved by the CFP." No fixed waiting period is set; the time is however long the review takes.
Under Firearms Act section 28(b), the CFO approves a restricted firearm transfer for target practice or competition under the auspices of an approved shooting club or shooting range, among other permitted purposes.
Handguns are a separate case. Under the handgun changes, the RCMP states that businesses "may continue to sell handguns to exempted individuals, law enforcement and the military, or to other authorized businesses." Most individuals cannot acquire a handgun today. Current owners "may continue to possess and use them."
Join the Silvercore Club
If you are heading toward a restricted PAL, the CFO looks at the purpose behind each restricted transfer. The Silvercore Club was the first club in Canada approved by the RCMP as meeting ATT issuance requirements. Membership in a gun club for restricted firearms is RCMP Canadian Firearms Program policy, and the Club is accepted in all provinces and territories across Canada. It costs $59 CAD per year, anyone can join with or without a PAL, and members get regulatory updates by email when the rules on transfers change. Join the Silvercore Club.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a waiting period for a first PAL in Canada?
Yes. Section 5 of the Firearms Licences Regulations (SOR/98-199), made under the Firearms Act, sets a minimum 28-day waiting period for first-time applicants. Plan on two to four months after the RCMP receives a complete application.
Is there a waiting period to buy a rifle or shotgun with a PAL?
No. A non-restricted firearm can be transferred once the seller obtains a valid reference number from the Registrar confirming your licence, under Firearms Act section 23.
How long is a transfer reference number valid?
The RCMP states the reference number is valid for 90 days, or for the remaining validity of the buyer's licence if that is shorter.
How long does a restricted firearm transfer take?
No fixed waiting period is set. The Chief Firearms Officer reviews the transfer, and the firearm stays with the seller until the transfer is approved and a new registration certificate is issued.
Do private sales need a reference number?
Yes. Section 23 applies to every transfer of a non-restricted firearm, including private sales between individuals.
