Firearms license in Spain: requirements and procedures to follow

In Spain, the firearms license is a subject that requires specific authorizations for the possession and proper use of firearms. There are different types of licenses, such as type B, C, D, E and F, each with particular requirements and characteristics. In order to obtain a license, it is necessary to take tests on knowledge and care of firearms, as well as a medical or psycho-technical examination. In addition, it is important to emphasize safety in places related to firearms, such as workshops and gun shops. Other procedures and formalities must also be taken into account, such as obtaining membership guides and special authorizations. The prevention of gender violence and child abuse is also a relevant issue in relation to gun safety.

Types of firearms licenses in Spain

In Spain, there are different types of gun licenses that we should be aware of. Each of them is designated for a specific purpose and is subject to particular requirements and restrictions.

Type B License

The type B license is granted for the possession and use of rifled long guns for big game hunting and sport shooting. It is required for those who wish to practice activities related to hunting or sport shooting involving this type of weapons.

Type C License

The type C license is used for the possession and use of rifled long guns for small game hunting and sport shooting. This license allows the possession of weapons intended for hunting animals considered smaller in size.

Type D license

The type D license is intended for the possession and use of semi-automatic or repeating handguns for personal defense or sport shooting. It is required for the possession of smaller and more portable firearms.

Type E License

The type E license is issued to persons who need to carry firearms for professional reasons, such as members of the security forces, licensed security guards or personnel of cash-in-transit companies. This license is required for the use of firearms in the performance of their duties.

Type F License

The type F license is specific to the possession and use of historical or collectible firearms. It is required for those who wish to possess firearms with historical or collectible value, provided they are not suitable for shooting.

These are the main firearms licenses available in Spain. Each has its own conditions and requirements that must be met by those seeking to obtain them legally.

Requirements to obtain a firearms license

Obtaining a firearms license in Spain involves complying with a series of specific requirements. The following are two fundamental aspects that must be taken into account: the knowledge and care of weapons tests, and the medical or psycho-technical examination.

Weapons knowledge and care tests

In order to obtain a firearms license, it is necessary to pass tests that evaluate the knowledge and proper care of firearms. These tests will be administered by the competent authority and may include aspects such as:

Knowledge about the operation and types of weapons.
Legal regulations related to the possession and use of firearms.
Essential safety measures when handling and storing weapons.
Correct cleaning and maintenance procedures.

Likewise, it will be necessary to demonstrate practical skills in the responsible handling of weapons and to perform shooting exercises under the conditions established by the competent authority.

Medical or psycho-technical examination

Another important requirement to obtain a firearms license is to pass a medical or psycho-technical examination. In the case of the medical examination, the applicant's physical and mental condition will be evaluated to ensure that he/she is in adequate condition to safely own and use firearms.

The purpose of the psycho-technical examination is to evaluate the applicant's psychological aptitude and to determine if he/she presents any factor that may jeopardize the safety in handling firearms. It is essential to successfully pass both the medical and the psycho-technical exams in order to obtain the desired license.

Weapons-related authorizations and formalities

Obtaining a firearms license involves various formalities and applying for the corresponding authorizations. The following are the procedures to obtain membership guides, request special authorizations and process the renewal of the permit.

Obtaining membership guides

Belonging guides are necessary documents for the possession of firearms. In order to obtain a guide, it is necessary to comply with certain requirements established by Spanish regulations. Among them are:

Be the holder of a valid and in force firearms license.
Possess a suitable and safe place for the storage of weapons.
Present the required documentation, such as ID card, valid firearms license and criminal record certificate.

Once the requirements have been met, you can request the membership guide at the Intervención de Armas de la Guardia Civil or at the Comandancia corresponding to your place of residence.

Special authorizations

In addition to the firearms license, there are specific situations that require special authorizations. Some examples of these situations are participation in shooting sports competitions, hunting activities or private security.

To obtain a special authorization, it is necessary to follow the procedures established by current legislation. These may include the presentation of additional documentation, such as certificates of aptitude and justification of the activity to be carried out. Special authorizations must be requested at the corresponding Firearms Intervention Office and must be renewed periodically as required by the applicable regulations.

Procedures to renew a firearms permit

The firearms permit has a limited duration and must be renewed periodically. To do so, the established procedures for renewal must be followed. These include:

Apply for renewal before the expiration date of the permit at the corresponding Firearms Intervention Office.
Present the required documentation for renewal, such as the certificate of aptitude, medical or psycho-technical certificate, and justification of possession of the firearm.
Pay the corresponding fees or rates for the renewal process according to current regulations.

It is essential to complete this procedure within the established deadlines, since the use of weapons without a valid permit can lead to serious legal sanctions.

Security in the handling and possession of firearms

Security measures in places related to weapons

Safety in places related to weapons, such as workshops and gun shops, is of vital importance. These spaces must comply with strict safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of people working in and visiting such places.

Among the most common security measures are:

Proper storage of weapons, ensuring that they are stored in appropriate cabinets or safes and protected with robust locking systems.
Access control, limiting entry to authorized persons only and keeping a record of those who access the site.
The installation of alarm and video surveillance systems to detect any incident or suspicious activity.
Training of personnel on the correct handling of weapons and safety standards, promoting a culture of prevention and responsibility.
Periodic inspections to ensure compliance with established safety measures.

Prevention of gender-based violence and child abuse

In the context of gun safety, it is crucial to address the prevention of gender-based violence and child abuse. These issues require special attention because of their relationship to the inappropriate use of weapons and their devastating consequences.

It is essential to promote awareness of the importance of reporting any signs of gender-based violence or child abuse in relation to gun ownership. Competent authorities should take measures to ensure the protection of potential victims, as well as thoroughly assess the profile and suitability of those applying for gun licenses.

Likewise, education and awareness-raising initiatives should be implemented to foster a culture of respect, equality and prevention of violence in all areas of society.

Links of interest and additional resources:

If you wish to obtain more information about security in the handling and possession of firearms, we recommend you to visit the following links:

Spanish Ministry of the Interior: [link].
Guardia Civil: [link].
Spanish Association of Armories: [link].

Links of interest and additional resources.

Below are some useful links and resources related to gun licensing in Spain:

These links provide access to official resources, updated laws and answers to frequently asked questions related to gun licensing in Spain. It is essential to be informed and aware of current regulations in order to follow proper procedures and ensure safety in relation to the possession and use of firearms.

You can also contact us, we perform any type of license and renewals, gun license, hunting licenses of any autonomous community, changes of name of weapons, weapons magazine, disabling weapons for collecting, fishing licenses both sporting and recreational, from boat, spearfishing ...

In order to obtain the firearms license, we offer the client outlines to study, exam questions, and a first contact with the shooting test, which will be carried out in the armory in Murcia.

Firearms license in Spain: requirements and procedures to be followed