Non-restricted firearms safety course

Basic Course Information

Safety Services Nova Scotia is proud to offer the Canadian Non-Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CFSC). This course was developed as a result of ongoing interest in firearms safety, and is offered in accordance with Section 7 of the Firearms Act.

  • Cost: $90 + HST where applicable (effective April 30, 2024)
    **Please note that this fee is payable at time of registration and is non-refundable**

  • Duration: Approximately 11 hours

Upon successful completion of this course, applicants 18 years or older will be provided with necessary documents to apply for their Possession & Acquisition Licence (PAL), with Non-Restricted certification. Under the Firearms Act, there is no minimum age to take this course. However, to obtain a Minors' Permit to borrow and/or use non-restricted firearms, an individual must be between 12 and 17 years of age. Once obtained, a Possession & Acquisition Licence allows the holder the privilege to purchase or possess non-restricted firearms and/or ammunition.

What You'll Need

  • Lunch or snacks: There are no snacks or meals provided.

  • Pen & paper: You will be responsible for your own writing materials and taking your own notes.

  • Government-issued ID (this includes but is not limited to Driver’s License, Passport, Health Card, Birth Certificate, etc).

Outcomes

Students must achieve a mark of 80% or more in both the written and practical examinations in order to successfully complete this course. By the end of the course, successful students will be able to handle non-restricted firearms and ammunition safely, identify and embrace the social responsibilities of firearm ownership, comply with all firearms laws and regulations, knowledgeably and safely store, transport and display non-restricted firearms and ammunition. 

There is no minimum age for this course. However, minors will need written permission observed by the course instructor from a parent or guardian to take the course.

COURSE Materials

The student handbook for the Non-Restricted Firearms safety course is available here.