Introduction
At FirearmsLicensing.Net, we welcome the opportunity to support Devon & Cornwall Police’s Firearms & Explosives Licensing Unit (FELU) in sharing practical advice with certificate holders and applicants.
Constructive engagement with police licensing teams is an important part of our work. It allows us to bring applicants’ experiences into the conversation, encourage improvements and help communicate advice that benefits the shooting community.
Our independence remains central to that relationship. We will continue to scrutinise licensing practices and advocate for fair, proportionate and consistent decisions. Alongside that work, we believe in supporting practical steps that help applicants and licensing teams achieve a safe, efficient and sustainable service.
Why we encourage online applications
One of Devon & Cornwall Police’s key requests is that applicants use the online application system wherever possible. We support that request and encourage those who can use the service to do so.
The online system provides immediate confirmation that an application has been received and allows applicants to pay conveniently by card. It also helps the police handle applications more efficiently. Combined with complete answers and early submission, this is a practical way applicants can help the process run more smoothly.
Access Devon & Cornwall Police’s online application system
We also recognise that online services are not equally accessible to everyone. Some applicants lack suitable internet access or equipment; others may find unfamiliar forms difficult or lack confidence using technology. Those barriers deserve understanding and practical support.
There is an opportunity for the shooting community to help. A trusted friend, family member or fellow club member may be able to guide an applicant through the process, helping them use the service while ensuring they understand and check their own answers and retain control of their personal information.
Key messages from Devon & Cornwall FELU
The licensing team has highlighted the following ways applicants can help:
- Complete your application in full
Please answer every question on the application form and any additional questions, even if you have supplied the information previously.
Where information is missing, the team needs to contact you to fill the gaps, adding time to the process. Providing complete answers at the outset helps avoid that additional correspondence.
Please use the online application system wherever possible.
- Request your GP report six months before expiry
Please request your GP report six months before your current certificate expires. Starting early gives you more time to obtain the medical information needed for your application.
- Submit your application 16 weeks before expiry, wherever possible
Please aim to submit your complete application 16 weeks before your certificate expires. Early submission gives the licensing team more time to carry out the necessary work.
- Help the team coordinate home visits
If the team contacts you to arrange a home visit for a new grant application, please make every effort to accommodate the appointment offered.
Visits are planned so that officers can see several applicants in the same area on the same day. Your flexibility helps the team make effective use of its time and available appointments.
Working together
Clear advice, well-prepared applications and practical support within the shooting community can all contribute to a better licensing experience.
Chief Inspector Rob Curtis, Head of the Firearms & Explosives Licensing Unit, said:
D&C FELU really appreciate the scrutiny and partnership working that Firearms Licensing.Net provide. We clearly have a shared goal of delivering a safe, efficient and sustainable firearms licensing service.
We welcome that shared commitment and look forward to continuing constructive dialogue with Devon & Cornwall Police, supporting applicants and helping these messages reach the people who need them.
