SAPS 517g competency certificate renewal

SAPS & firearms

Use SAPS 517(g) for a competency certificate renewal. Download the form from the official action, gather the supporting papers and check the photo before attaching it. Give the application and documents to the designated firearms officer (DFO) at the police station in the area where you ordinarily reside. Plan to submit at least 90 days before expiry of such certificate. Use the checklist to organise your packet before you go.

Official downloads

Get the official renewal applicationwww.saps.gov.za

How to use it

Confirm the form title Open the downloaded form and check its title before you begin. It is application for the renewal of a competency certificate. The form code is SAPS 517(g). Keep the purpose clear as you prepare: this application is for renewing a competency certificate. If you already have a copy, compare its title and code with the download before you gather the rest of your papers.

Document checklist

Identity document Add certified copy of your official identification document or passport to the application packet.
Permanent residence permit If you are not a South African citizen, add a certified copy of your permanent residence permit.
Certificate being renewed Include a certified copy of your current competency certificate which is to be renewed (front and back). Check that the copy includes both sides.
Photographs Bring two passport-size colour photographs (with a neutral background) that are not older than three months. Check the separate form instructions for how the photographs should look and be marked.
Proof of residence Add certified proof of residence to the packet.
Character testimonials Include two testimonial attesting your character with the signature of the deponent.
Other supporting papers Add any other supporting documents that relate to your application.

Questions & answers

What age condition does the declaration include?

The declaration says the applicant must be 21 years or older on the day the application is received by the Designated Firearms Officer. It ties this condition to the day the Designated Firearms Officer receives the application, so plan your hand-in with that point in mind.

What citizenship or residence status does the declaration name?

It says the applicant is a South African citizen or a holder of a permanent South African residence permit. The supporting-paper checklist also identifies a certified permanent residence permit copy for an applicant who is not a South African citizen.

What knowledge test does the declaration mention?

It includes this condition: the applicant has successfully completed the prescribed test on knowledge of this Act. The declaration refers to knowledge of the Act, separate from the training and practical-test condition.

What firearm training does the declaration mention?

It says the applicant has successfully completed the prescribed training and practical tests regarding the safe and efficient handling of a firearm. This condition covers training and practical tests about safe and efficient firearm handling.

What is the competency certificate fee?

The fee for a competency certificate is R88,00.