Recurring FAQ Thread - Post your questions here for PAL/RPAL application, timelines, CFSC/CFSRC, references & requirements, or general new to firearms ownership-type questions

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This thread will be used for any Frequently Asked Questions, including PAL/RPAL applications, CFSC/CFRSC requirements, storage/transport, open ended "what gun should I buy first", or other general new to firearms ownership questions. It recurs every 14 days.

We recommend you try the search bar before asking common questions as they are frequently already answered elsewhere.

Most answers to Storage, Display, and Transport questions can be found here Inheriting firearms or dealing with an Estate? Answers here. Do you need to renew your license or check on the status of your license application? Try here.

Do you have questions about the classifications of firearms? More details here.

Are you wondering if a firearm is legal or not? Details here.

Different types of firearms are explained in detail here.

Exporting firearms, ammunition, parts and accessories from the US: most items are controlled under ITAR and you cannot, as an individual, export these items from the USA. Canada does not care in most cases. If you attempt to bring any of these items across the border yourself and you are caught, you will face prison time in the US. If you wish to export items from the USA, use a broker such as IRUNGUNS, Aztech, or Prophet River.

If you took your CFSC and lost the paperwork, you can still apply for your PAL. Both your instructor and the CFP retain copies, you can request a copy by contacting either one. There is no expiration date on the paperwork, you do not have to retake the course. Updated list of scam websites is here.

If you have new scam sites to add, please message the mod team. Be careful: only use reputable sites to purchase things online. It is illegal to manufacture a non-restricted, restricted, or prohibited firearm.

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[u/ALR0497]

Questions about PAL renewal.

I'm asking questions for an old guy who isn't skilled into social media.

His PAL will expire in April 2027 (in about 7 months). He wants to renew it now. He has been a law abiding citizen since forever, he has no red flags nor any problem.

Question 1 : As of today, 2 years and 5 days ago he was fired from his job due to lack of performance. He has no negative emotions about getting fired. He found a new job a month after getting fired. He still holds this job. Although the renewal form asks if you lost a job 2 years ago, is it still fine if he checks "no" [meaning : no job loss]? Technically, this job loss is beyond 2 years, by 5 days. What do you recommend to check / write in the form?

Question 2 : He lives in Quebec. What renewal timelines are you aware of, in Quebec? In other words, how long would be an average waiting time in Quebec to get a renewal approved these times for standard online renewal applications for this kind of person that doesn't have any red flags?

[u/Agent_1812 → u/ALR0497]

he can renew online six months before expiry, do it online through the Individual Web Services portal

https://www.services.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/chooser-eng.html?ipeReferer=eCFISIWS

my renewal (Ontario) (last year) was about two weeks

[u/airchinapilot → u/ALR0497]

A1. It was technically more than 2 years and by the time they actually look at his renewal it will be even more so don't overthink it. I would say no.

[u/gamercast1337]

Whats this about Olympic exemption for pistol? Where can I look more in to this? I want a sport to partake in and something I think I could across be good at (despite my improvement in fitness id still get my ass beat in like basketball lmao) so if I can somehow actually get a pistol and try and aim for being in the Olympics that would be coolio.

[u/EliteDuck → u/gamercast1337]

You're really late to that one. As it stands, the people that got an exemption (including myself) a few months ago possibly won't be getting their pistols. Ottawa is refusing to put the final rubber stamp on the paperwork is what I last heard.

[u/Watchmethrowhim]

40 days into waiting on my first pal? Call now or give it more time?

[u/Agent_1812 → u/Watchmethrowhim]

call your CFO, offer to help with any questions they may have