Frequently Asked Questions

Search for the topic or keyword you have a question about below to see more information.

• What if I only have one name?

  If you only have one name, please enter the name into both the Last name and First name fields of the application. 

  (This also applies if someone on your application only has one name, such as one of your references, a prescribed person or employee, etc.)

• Can I hold a firearms licence after a prohibition order has expired?

  To be eligible to hold a firearms licence after a prohibition order has expired, you must successfully complete the Canadian Firearms Safety Course and pass its tests. This is a requirement under subsection 7(3) of the Firearms Act after a person has been prohibited from possessing firearms.

  Section 810 Peace Bonds with conditions: not to possess firearms – you are required to retake the Canadian Firearms Safety Course after the expiry date of the order. If there were no firearms conditions as part of the Peace Bond then you would not be required to retake the Canadian Firearms Safety Course.

• What happens if my parent/guardian or photo guarantor fail to complete their acknowledgement before the link expires?

  You will have to call the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 to have the link resent to the signatory with a new expiry date.

• If I'm 17 and turning 18 soon, should I still apply for a Minor's licence?

  You should apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). Unless you are in immediate need of a licence (competitions, etc.).

• How do I report a lost or stolen or damaged minors licence card?

  If your licence is lost or stolen you should call the local Police or the RCMP to report the licence as being missing.  You will need to complete the replacement form (RCMP 5515 - Firearms Documents Replacement Request). 
   

  Possession and Acquisition Licence:  There is a fee of $25 to replace a lost, stolen or damaged licence card.

  Minor's Licence:  There is a fee of $10 to replace a lost, stolen or damaged minor's licence card.
   

• Do I need to take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course to apply for a minor's licence?

  Yes.  All minors wishing to obtain a minor's licence are required to take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course with the exception of those minors who need firearms to hunt or trap in order to sustain themselves or their family.  For further info on this exception view section Sustenance Hunter.

• What if my signatories (parent/guardian, Elder, etc.) are not comfortable using your online services? Can I submit my portion online and have them complete their portion by paper?

  No. If you submit an online application, your signatories will be required to use the online service to complete their acknowledgements. 

• Why do I need consent of a legal guardian or parent?

  Before you can get a Minor's Licence, a Firearms Officer may interview you or your parent or guardian. Your parent or guardian must first agree and consent to the conditions under which you may use firearms.

• How do I know what the fee is for my minor's licence?

  The fees are based on the number of years for which the licence is required.
  Up to one year $10.00
  Up to two years $20.00
  Up to three years $30.00

• Do I need a minor's licence?

  A minor's licence allows borrowing non-restricted firearms for approved purposes (e.g., learning about the use of firearms, organized shooting competitions, hunting, or target practice), and purchasing ammunition (unless there is an age restriction under provincial or territorial law).  

  A minor can still use firearms of any class without a licence if they are under the direct and immediate supervision of someone who is licensed to have that firearm. The licensed person should be near enough to the minor to take immediate action to prevent any unsafe or illegal use of the firearm.

• Am I eligible to apply for a minor's licence?

  To be eligible to apply for a minor's licence online: 

  you must be a first time applicant;

  have completed the Canadian Firearms Safety Course and passed the test;

  be between 12-17 years of age (Exceptions may apply for children under age of 12 who need to hunt to sustain themselves and their families )

• How can I apply for a minor's licence?

  You can apply for a Minor's licence by clicking the "Apply for a firearms licence" on the RCMP website.  You will be prompted to get started by creating a MyCFP Account by signing in through CGKey or a Sign-in Partner.  If you are not eligible to apply online, please visit our website (https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/firearms/) for more information.  

• Will I be communicating with a robot? What if I want to talk to a real person?

  As new features become available, a virtual agent may be introduced in the future to provide more accessible and timely responses to common inquiries.  Until then, clients will still be able to reach an agent with the CFP through our Contact Centre during regular business hours at 1-800-731-4000 or if an application is in process, through their MyCFP Email.

• Can I delete emails?

  Within your Inbox, you have the option to delete emails by selecting one or more messages and clicking on the "delete" button. 

• Can I return missing information by email?

  Within your Inbox, on the "View message" page, you will be able to select "reply" to provide missing information.  To add an attachment you will click on the attach files icon to upload your document.

• Can I retrieve a deleted email?

  Within the deleted tab of the Inbox, you may restore deleted messages by selecting on the message(s) and clicking on the "restore" button.

• How can I search my emails?

  Within the inbox, you can enter your search criteria in the search icon to locate your emails.  

• How do I send a message to the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?

  If you have an in-progress application or submitted applicaition, log into MyCFP account and click on the "New Message" button in your inbox.  You will be able to write and send a message to the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) regarding your application.

• How do I respond to a message I received from the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?

  In Inbox, on the "View message" page, you will be able to select "reply" to respond to a message received from the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP).

• How do I locate a message I received from Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?

  You can access your messages in the MyCFP Portal by clicking on the message icon in the navigation bar. 

• How do I contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?

  If you have an in-progress application or submitted application, you can contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) by logging into MyCFP account and clicking on the "New Message" button in your inbox.  The CFP can also be reached by telephone at 1-800-731-4000 between 9am and 5pm, Monday through Friday.  

• Can I become a Verifier?

  For any questions on becoming a Verifier, call the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000

• Can I become an instructor?

  For any questions regarding becoming an Instructor, you will need to contact your local Chief Firearms Office.

• I am a Reference/Photo Guarantor and have entered the reference number and security code but can not proceed further.

  You can try opening the link in another browser, or using an Incognito tab in Chrome, an InPrivate tab in Edge, or a Private tab in Safari. If these solutions do not work, we recommend clearing your browser cache. 
  You will not be able to access the MyCFP Portal in Internet Explorer, as it is not supported. 

• I am a Reference/Photo Guarantor and the email link sent to me is not working. I get an error " “This link can only be accessed by the original recipient. If you believe you are receiving this message in error, please contact 1-800-731-4000”

  Check your emails to see if you have received a more recent email with a new link.  If not, the applicant who has applied for the licence will have to call the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000.

• I'm trying to upload an image but I get an error "You don't have appropriate permissions"

  This is caused by the session being timed out upon attempting to upload an image. 
  The portal will time out after 20 minutes.
  You need to log out of the session in the browser and re-open and login in to portal to attach documents.

• How do I provide feedback?

  We ask that you send any feedback to CFP_UX-PCAF_EU@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. You can report a problem or issue using the "Report a problem or issue on this page" tool. 

• Where will the sessions take place?

  The sessions will be conducted virtually, so no travel is required. You'll need a computer or a laptop that has access to a stable internet connection.

• Will I be compensated?

  If you are chosen to participate and complete more than 10 minutes of the usability testing session, you will be compensated. Further details will be shared with participants before the usability testing session. 

• What do I need to participate in usability testing and research?

  You’ll need a computer or a laptop that has access to a stable internet connection.

• How can I participate in usability testing or user research?

  If you are interested in participating in a user interview, please contact the project team directly at CFP_UX-EU_PCAF@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

• What is user research?

  User research focuses on understanding user behaviors, needs and motivations. It is done through surveys, interviews, and other feedback methodologies.

• What is a usability testing session?

  Usability testing focuses on whether someone can successfully use the program or tool being tested to accomplish a task. This allows us to ensure the tool being tested, in this case, the online PAL application, is functional and meets users’ needs. 

• What is acceptable for safety training?

  There are two courses for firearms safety.

  Non-restricted: Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) is an introductory course for anyone (including minors) who want to own non-restricted firearms.
   

  Restricted: Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) is an introductory course for anyone over the age of 18 who wants to own restricted firearms.

  
  Exceptions: In Manitoba and Quebec, some provincial hunter-safety courses are equivalent to the CFSC. If you passed those courses before 1995, you do not need to do the CFSC.
  You may be exempted from taking firearms safety training if you have owned a firearm continuously since January 1, 1979, and a Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) believes that your knowledge of firearms laws and safe handling practices meets the national safety standards.
  If you passed the CFSC before February 1999 you have also passed the CRFSC by default. You can apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence without taking the course again.

• What if I do not have a copy of safety training I took in the past?

  Please call the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000. 

• Where can I obtain a list of instructors in my area?

  Please visit https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/firearms/find-an-instructor for information on where to find an instructor. 

• Can I use my Quebec Hunting Card as proof of safety course even if there is no date on those cards?

  Yes, you can enter the approximate date. 

• I am turning 18 soon. When can I apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL)?

  If you are turning 18 in the next 6 months, you can apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) now. If you are approved, the licence card will be issued once you turn 18. 

• Now that I have a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL), is there anything else I need to transport my firearms?

  If you are transporting Non-Restricted Firearms, you must abide by the safe storage and transport procedures. If you are transporting restricted and/or prohibited firearms, you will also need the registration for those firearms, along with a valid authorization to transport (ATT) issued by the Chief Firearms Office.

• I want a list of my registered firearms, how do I get this?

  You can contact us to reprint your registered restricted/prohibited firearms or you can file an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request.

• My licence status has been valid for over six weeks but I never did receive it?

  You should contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 to confirm your card has been printed and mailed.

• How do I upgrade my Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) from Non Restricted to include Restricted Firearms?

  You first need to successfully complete the course and test for the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC). After completion, you would need to complete a new application for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) including the request to have your privileges upgraded to include Restricted firearms.

• How long before the licence expires?

  A Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) is valid for at least 5 years, expiring on your birthday.

• My licence has expired, what do I do?

  If it has been less than 6 months since expiry, you can still renew your Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). If more than 6 months have passed, you will need to complete a new application.

• Can I borrow a firearm if I have a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL)?

  INDIVIDUALS can borrow a firearm, in the classification they are licenced for, with a valid Possession & Acquisition (PAL) or a Temporary Borrowing Licence.

  An individual borrowing  a Restricted Firearm, must contact the Chief Firearms Office in order to get an ATT.

  The registered owner must provide his original registration certificate to the person borrowing the firearm.

• How much is the fee to renew my licence?

  Possession and Acquisition (PAL):

  The fee to renew a licence with Non-Restricted Firearm privileges is currently $64.54. The fee to renew a licence which includes Restricted and/or Prohibited privileges is currently $86.06. These fees are increased at the rate of inflation on an annual basis. *Note: Licence fees (Minor/PAL) is determined on the date the application is received at CPS, not by the date you sent it, or the date your licence expires.

• How do I update my address with Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?

  If you have a valid licence, you can update your address online by logging into the RCMP CFP Individual Web Services. If you are not licenced, but have a pending application, you need to contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000.

• What if my name has changed?

  If your name has legally changed, you need to provide a government issued ID (with the new name) to your Chief Firearms Office so your file can be updated.

• What should I do if my licence card is lost, damaged or stolen?

  If your licence is lost or stolen you should call the local Police or the RCMP to report the licence as being missing.  You will need to complete the replacement form (RCMP 5515 - Firearms Documents Replacement Request).  

  Possession and Acquisition Licence: There is a fee of $25 to replace a lost, stolen or damaged licence card.

  Minor's Licence: There is a fee of $10 to replace a lost, stolen or damaged minor's licence card.

• How do I renew my licence?

  You can renew your licence online by logging into the RCMP CFP Individual Web Services. If you prefer to renew with a paper application, you need to contact the CFP at 1-800-731-4000.

• When should I renew my licence?

  Due to fluctuating processing times, it is recommended that you renew your licence 6 months prior to expiry.

• I am the executor and I would like a list of firearms that were registered to deceased

  The Central Processing Site (CPS) will now provide a deceased client's firearm inventories to executors upon receiving proof that an individual is deceased (death certificate or approved alternative) and the completed RCMP form 6016 found on the RCMP CFP website.

• I am the executor of an estate with firearms. What do I need to do?

  The executor/executrix generally has the same rights as the deceased to possess the firearms. While handling the distribution of firearms as a part of an estate, the executor/executrix does not need a firearms licence.

  However, if the executor/executrix is also an heir to any firearms held by the Estate, they will require a Possession and Acquisition Licence to transfer any firearm into their own name.

• What should I do if I have a licence for a deceased person?

  You have to first mail us the licence, and a copy of the death certificate, and RCMP form 6016 which can be found on the RCMP CFP website. If the deceased possessed firearms (registered or not) these firearms will need to be disposed of. This could include given to an heir, sold, deactivated, turned into the police for destruction, etc.

• Can I still use a firearm if I don't have a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL)?

  Federally, for minors and unlicensed adults, being under direct and immediate supervision means that they should be close enough to a licenced person when in possession of the firearm to allow the licenced individual to intervene and to remove the firearm should it be required. They should also verify hunting regulations with their Province.

  
  If the client requires more information on Direct and Immediate supervision such as what the specific distance is, or if both parties have a firearm, direct the call to their Chief Firearms Officer.

• How do I correct an error I made on my application?

  If the application has already been submitted, you will need to contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000.

• Where can I take the Canadian Firearms Safety Course?

  You need to contact the Chief Firearms Office in your province and obtain the Safety Course information. Depending on where you live, or where you wish to take the course, the CFO will be able to provide you with contact information for an Instructor.

• How do I check the status of my paper application?

  The only way to check the status of a paper application is by contacting the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000.

• What is the timeframe if I apply by paper?

  There is no set timeframe for paper applications. Much of this depends on mail travel time, processing times, requests for any missing information, etc.

• Can I still apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) if I don't want to apply online?

  Yes, the Canadian Firearms Program still accepts paper applications. These can be downloaded from the RCMP CFP Website.

• How do I check the status of my application?

  You can check the status of your application by logging into your MyCFP account, or by contacting Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000

• What if I wish to apply under the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada Adaptations Regulations -Firearms?

  There are only three reasons an individual would need to be considered under Aboriginal Peoples of Canada Adaptations Regulations -Firearms (APCAR).
  (1) You have no safety training and are requesting to be alternatively certified for firearm safety training.
  (2) You are a minor under the age of 12 and you wish to engage in the traditional hunting practices of your community.
  (3) You have a "detailed" background which may result in your licence application being refused or you have conditions attached to your licence.  
   

• What if I do not know the whereabouts of my previous conjugal partner?

  There is a section that will need to be checked, indicating you do not know the contact information of your previous conjugal partner.

• How much information is required to be disclosed for Personal History Questions?

  There is no standard as to how much information is required to be disclosed for personal history questions. 

• What happens if I added an incorrect e-mail address for a reference, photo guarantor or conjugal partner?

  Once your application is submitted, you will have to call the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 to update the information. Once updated, the email(s) will be resent with a new completion deadline.

• What if I wish to change a signatory on my application?

  If you require a change to one of your signatories please contact Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 to provide the new signatories information and a new link will be sent to them to complete their portion of the application process.

• What if my signatories link expired?

  If the link provided to your signatory expires, please contact Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 and a new link will be sent to the requested signatory.

• What happens if my references or photo guarantor fail to complete their acknowledgement before the link expires?

  You will have to call the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000 to have the link resent to the signatory with a new expiry date. 

• Why does my spouse need to provide a unique e-mail address?

  The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) is bound by law to ensure conjugal partners are aware an application for a firearms licence has been made. To uphold the integrity of the application, a unique email for the partner(s) is required.

• What if my spouse is not comfortable using your online services? Can I submit my portion online but he/she submits via mail on paper?

  Signatures from your current and/or former conjugal partners are not legally required for your application to proceed. If the signatures are not provided, the Chief Firearms Officer has a duty to notify your current and/or former conjugal partners of your application for a firearms licence.

• What if my references or photo guarantor don't want to use the online service or are unwilling to complete the acknowledgement?

  Your application must be accompanied by attestations/acknowledgements from two references and a photo guarantor. You will have the option to contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) to provide new references or photo guarantor.  An email will then be sent to the new signatory to acknowledge the application.

• What is required of my signatories?

  To complete their respective acknowledgement, your signatories (references, photo guarantor, conjugal partner, etc.) will need to sign-in using GC Key or with their banking information. 
  Once logged in, your signatories will be required to enter a unique security code to acknowledge your application, which you will create later in the application process and share with them. 
  Signatories will have 10 days to complete the acknowledgement before the link expires. 
  If you use a reference or conjugal partner as your photo guarantor, they will receive two separate emails and must complete both acknowledgements in order for your application to proceed.

• How do I update my address with the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP)?

  Addresses for licenced individuals can be updated online through Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) Individual Web Services, or by contacting the CFP at 1-800-731-4000.

• What is a Fee Waiver for Sustenance Hunters?

  The fee payable for the issuance or renewal of a possession and acquisition licence (PAL) for non-restricted firearms or Minor's licence is waived in respect of individuals who require firearms to hunt or trap in order to sustain themselves or their families.

• If I pay for my licence with a debit visa or credit card, will you be saving the card number?

  The RCMP does not save your credit card information.

• Refunds - If I do not get approved for the licence can I get a refund?

  The fees associated with applying for a firearms licence are non-refundable; these fees are considered a processing fee.  Should you fail to qualify for a licence, the application fee is not refunded.

• How can I get a receipt proving I paid?

  To request a receipt, you will need to contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) at 1-800-731-4000.

• How can I pay for my licence online?

  Currently, payments can only be made online by credit card or debit visa. The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) is looking at expanding payment options in the future. 

• What is required for non-residents?

  The same requirements for Canadian citizens to obtain a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) are also required for Non-Residents. In addition, the non-resident applicant will also be required to provide a valid letter of good conduct and any other documents requested by the affiliated Chief Firearms Officer (CFO).

• How do I get a letter of Good Conduct?

  Contact your local police department or government office and request whichever acceptable letter of good conduct applies to you.

• What is required for new residents of Canada?

  A letter of good conduct can be one of the following documents: A recent criminal history clearance letter/local indices check from the local policing agency from every city in which the applicant resided during the past five years, Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5686), Permanent Resident Card (PRC) issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, or a Canadian Citizenship card.

• Do I need a PAL if I own crossbows?

  Crossbows that you can aim and fire with one hand, and those with an overall length of 500 mm (about 19.68 inches) or less, are prohibited. You cannot lawfully have a prohibited crossbow. Under the Firearms Act, you do not need a licence or registration certificate to have other types of bows. This includes crossbows that are longer than 500 mm that need two hands to use.

• What is a Non-restricted firearm, Restricted firearm, and Prohibited firearm?

  Non-Restricted - This class includes any rifle or shotgun that is neither restricted nor prohibited. Most common long guns are non-restricted, but there are exceptions.                                                   
  Restricted - Handguns that are not prohibited firearms
  Firearms that:
  are not prohibited firearms
  have a barrel less than 470 mm in length
  are capable of discharging cente-fire ammunition in a semi-automatic manner
  Firearms designed or adapted to be fired when reduced to a length of less than 660 mm by folding, telescoping or otherwise
  Firearms of any other kind prescribed to be restricted firearms in the Regulations

  Prohibited - Handguns with barrels equal to or less than 105 mm in length
  Handguns designed or adapted to discharge a 25 or 32 caliber cartridge
  This does not include handguns for use in international sporting competitions governed by the rules of the International Shooting Union and where the handgun is prescribed to be restricted
  Firearms adapted from a rifle or shotgun, whether by sawing, cutting or any other alteration, and that, as so adapted are:
  less than 660 mm in length
  660 mm or greater in length and has a barrel less than 457 mm in length
  Automatic firearms, whether or not altered to discharge only one projectile with one pressure of the trigger
  Firearms prescribed to be prohibited firearms in the Regulations

• What is the safety training certification requirement?

  You must provide the Canadian Firearms Safety Course Report indicating you have successfully completed the training. 
  Exceptions
  If you completed your training in Quebec and only received the Quebec Hunting Card, that will be accepted. 
  In Manitoba and Quebec, some provincial hunter-safety courses are equivalent to the CFSC. If you passed those courses before 1995, you do not need to do the CFSC.
  You may be exempted from taking firearms safety training if you have owned a firearm continuously since January 1, 1979, and a Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) believes that your knowledge of firearms laws and safe handling practices meets the national safety standards.
  If you passed the CFSC before February 1999 you have also passed the CRFSC by default. You can apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence without taking the course again.
  Note: If you are applying for both Non-Restricted and Restricted PAL, you must upload a copy of the report into both course report fields when prompted later in the application process.

• What documents are required?

  As part of the Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) process, you must provide and upload two pieces of identification issued by federal, territorial, provincial, regional or municipal government. Examples of types of identification you may use to prove your
  identity include:
  Federal, provincial, territorial or municipal employee identification card
  Driver's licence
  Passport
  Birth certificate
  Citizenship certificate
  Permanent resident document

  If you reside in Quebec and are applying for a restricted licence, a completed form SQ-3007 in person form is needed.

• What is the photo requirement?

  On Line Photo requirements

• What do I need to apply for a PAL online?

  You will need:

  -A valid email address
  -Two pieces of government issued ID
  -Successfully complete safety training requirements
  -A valid digital licence photo that adheres to the photo requirements
  -Valid email addresses for your:
  -two references
  -photo guarantor
  -current conjugal partner (if applicable)
  -former conjugal partner (if applicable)
  -A valid credit card or Visa or MasterCard debit card

• How long will it take to receive a firearms licence if I apply online?

  The system is designed to minimize application errors, which in the past significantly delayed application processing.  The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) remains committed to meeting its service standards.

• What are the benefits to applying online for a PAL?

  There are plenty of benefits to applying online:
  - You don’t have to print the application and fill it out by hand;
  -There is no need to seek out your references and photo guarantor for signatures – they’ll be contacted by email;
  -You have the flexibility to save a partially completed application and submit it when it’s ready;
  -There is no need for postage or a trip to the post office; and
  -You are less likely to experience delays due to missing information in your application.

• Can I apply for a Possession and Acquisition Licence online?

  Yes, if you are eligible, you can apply online. To be eligible, you must:  
  -Be at least 18 years of age; and,
  - Be a first time applicant and have never held a valid firearms licence (including Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL), Possession Only Licence (POL), Firearms Acquisiton Certificate (FAC), Minor’s licence).

• Will the new system be using artificial intelligence? What safeguards will be put in place?

  The Canadian Firearms Digital Services Solution (CFDSS) is still in the design phase; however, it is anticipated that automated decision support will be integrated into some business processes. The CFP will comply with responsible, ethical, and transparent guidelines in the use of advanced solutions, by adhering to the Government of Canada’s Directive on Automated Decision-Making and publishing the Algorithmic Impact Assessment.

• I heard the GCKey service was attacked. Is my information safe?

  A small percentage of GCKey accounts were affected by a “credential stuffing” attack in 2020. These attacks use usernames and passwords collected through hacks of other accounts and take advantage of people reusing usernames and passwords across multiple accounts. The affected accounts were cancelled as soon as the threat was discovered and the affected users were contacted.  Using different usernames and passwords for your accounts will help protect you from this type of attack. 

• What processes are you putting in place to prevent hacking and data breaches?

  The RCMP works closely with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and Shared Services Canada to ensure government networks and systems are protected against compromises. 

• Is my information secure?

  Yes. Services provided by the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) require multi-factor authentication. Individuals can log-in using Sign-in Canada [or equivalent]. The CFP is aware of the importance of privacy and security, and implements security controls consistent with Government of Canada standards. This includes using secure technologies and limiting access to security-cleared personnel.    

• Will you be accepting digital currencies in the future?

  There are no immediate plans to accept digital currency. The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) will take guidance from the Government of Canada regarding acceptable currencies. 

• Will the RCMP have access to my banking information?

  None of your information (e.g. financial, banking) will be shared with the government service. Your Sign-In Partner will not know which government service you are using.

• How will you keep my credit or debit card information safe?

  Your credit card information will not be saved. The RCMP uses the same technology as many banking sites to encrypt communications between the browser and web server. Additionally, the RCMP undergoes a Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI/DSS) compliance review every year. 

• How will you use my information? Will you provide it to 3rd parties?

  A Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) uses your application and safety training information to determine if you are eligible for the licence or authorization you are requesting. Firearms registration information is used to determine a classification and/or issue a firearms certificate.

• Who has access to the information I am entering online?

  The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) is aware of the importance of privacy and security, and implements security controls consistent with Government of Canada standards. Your information will only be accessed by security cleared personnel using secure technologies. 

• Why do I need to sign-in through GCKey or Sign-in Partner?

  GCKey and Sign-in Partner protect communicates with online Government programs. This is one way that Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) protects your personal information. 

• How do I update my new email address?

  If you have submitted an application through the MyCFP portal, or are an existing CFP client, you will need to access IWS to update your email address. 

• How do I delete MyCFP account?

  If you have created a MyCFP account, but haven't taken other action (e.g. submitted an application or authenticated as an instructor), you can delete your MyCFP account by clicking on the “Delete My CFPAccount” button at the bottom of your Profile page.  

• Will my account expire if I do not use it?

  If you do not submit an application, and do not access your account for 90 days, your account will be deleted. You will receive email notifications before this happens. 

• How do I update my personal information in MyCFP account?

  At this time, personal information cannot be changed in the MyCFP Portal once an application is submitted. To update your personal information, please visit Individual Web Services (IWS) or call 1-800-731-4000.

• Will my GCKey expire if I don't use it?

  Yes, your GCKey can expire. Their system requires you to use your GCKey at least once every 24 months. If you do not use your GCKey every 24 months, it will expire. If this occurs, you will no longer be able to access online Enabled Services.

• How do I create a MyCFP Account?

  To create a MyCFP Account, visit firearms.rcmp.ca and follow the prompts. 

• What is a MyCFP Account?

  A single access point portal for secure online services provided by the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP). You can use your MyCFP Account to apply for a Firearms Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) online and check your application status at any time.

• What if I notice an error or wrong information in the online forms?

  There is a report a problem form available on each page of the application to report problems or issues.

• What services can I expect in the future?

  All Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) services will eventually be moved to the MyCFP Portal. The project is being completed in phases and services are being added regularly.  

• What is new?

  Online PAL, Minor's licence, Instructor Portal, MyCFP Inbox (2-way secure communications)

• What happens to my application if I am interrupted and cannot finish it? Can I still access it later and will the information have saved?

  Yes. Incomplete or unfinished applications can be saved at any point.

• As an existing user of Individual Web Services (IWS)/Business Web Services (BWS) /Police and Public Agencies Web Services (PWS) what do I need to do?

  Information currently held by the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) will be securely transferred to the new system so you will not be required to re-enter your personal information.  If you have an existing account for CFP web services, no action is required on your part.  If you are accessing CFP services for the first time you will need to create an account. 

• Will I be communicating with a robot? What if I want to talk to a real person?

  As new features become available, a virtual agent may be introduced to provide more accessible and timely responses to common inquiries. Clients will still be able to reach the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) through our Contact Centre during regular business hours at 1-800-731-4000.

• Is there a help feature?

  Yes, the Canadian Firearms Digital Services Solution (CFDSS) is being designed to provide a simple, modern user experience, with help features to support clients. You can also contact the CFP directly at 1-800-731-4000 for further assistance.

• Will I still be able to submit my application by mail?

  Yes. if you cannot or do not want to use the new online services, the CFP will continue to offer other service options in line with the Government of Canada’s commitment to accessibility for all Canadians.

• Are paper applications still going to be accepted?

  Yes. If you cannot or do not want to use the new online services, paper applications will still be accepted. 

• If I have feedback, how do I provide it?

  There is a report a problem form available on each page of the application to report problems or issues. Feedback on the MyCFP portal can also be sent by email to CFP_UX-EU_PCAF@rcmp-grc.gc.ca and we are exploring other features to allow clients to provide feedback through the secure portals. 
  Please call 1-800-731-4000 if you need assistance. 

• Will I have to re-enter all of my information?

  No, you will not be required to re-enter your personal information.  Information currently held by the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) will be securely transferred to the new system automatically.   If you have an existing account for CFP web services, no action is required on your part.  If you are accessing CFP services for the first time, you will need to create an account.

• What happens to my information that is in the current system?

  Existing data will eventually be transferred into the new database.  In accordance with RCMP security standards, the data will be encrypted (converted into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access).

• Why are you updating the system?

  We are moving paper-based forms and manual processes online to provide a better user experience for clients and employees. This aligns with the Connected RCMP Digital Policing Strategy, as well as Treasury Board Secretariat’s Policy on Service and Digital.

• What is the the CFDSS Project?

  The Canadian Firearms Digital Services Solution (CFDSS) Project will introduce: 
  a.    new online portal(s), available on all platforms and devices, where clients can connect with the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) to apply for licences, register firearms, obtain information, or chat with an agent; and
  b.    a case management system, to support licensing and registration activities, resulting in simple, faster, and modern service delivery. 

  The CFDSS project is being completed in phases, meaning new and existing services will be available at the same time until all processes are migrated to the new platform and the old system is removed.