"What do I need to purchase a firearm in Canada?"
This question comes up a lot -I mean, A LOT- so I thought I'd address it here. (I'll also touch on some other license-related questions at the bottom of this.)
You need a Possession/Acquisition License, commonly referred to as a PAL. To get this, you have three possible paths.
First, you can take the course. In the Algoma region, this is typically done over three weeknights. It's usually paired with the course for your hunting license, which is another three weeknights. Occasionally, outlying areas will get both of these courses crammed into a Friday night/Saturday/Sunday session. Taking the course is highly recommended; you'll have a much more thorough understanding of firearms than those who don't.
Second, you can pick up a copy of the study manual (available in store) and read it at your own pace. When you feel comfortable with the material, you move on to the third bit.
The third option is to simply challenge the test. You can call the shop and book an appointment (most Wednesday and Saturday mornings are available but you MUST CALL and book it ahead). The test consists of a written portion (true/false, multiple choice) and a practical exam (handling inactive firearms safely). Most people do it in less than an hour.
Depending on which route you choose, this part of the process will typically cost between $40 and $100. (Costs associated with the hunting license not included. These are two separate cards.)
After successfully completing the test, the relevant paperwork is sent out by the test administrator. Eventually (at least two weeks, often more) the government send you the final papers which allow to you to fill out and submit your application. These are available at the CFC website (http://www.cfc-cafc.gc.ca). You send the application, a properly sized photo, COPIES of your paperwork (keep the originals, you may need them for renewals), and sixty dollars.
Then you wait, and one shining day your license arrives. Then you head down to your friendly gun shop and pay off the layaway you probably started during those long weeks.
Some other points
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To challenge the test, call us at 705-759-8346. For further information on courses in Algoma, call Frank at 949-7491.
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Renewals are due every five years - they're free!
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Owning restricted guns (i.e. handguns) requires an upgrade to your license. You save $40 if you do both the non-restricted and restricted at the same time. Getting your restricted can be done in similar ways to the non-restricted, but the course is typically only one evening.
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You need a PAL (or POL, Possession-Only, which is no longer offered) to buy ammo. You also need it to inherit or possess firearms, even if you had a license under the old FAC system.
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Some guns (mostly very small handguns, certain rifles) are classified as 'prohibited'. Only people who legally owned similar guns before the classifications changed can hold a prohib license.
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Given the current system, we generally DO NOT have copies of your paperwork. If you've taken the test already and lost your papers, you may send off the application without it. The application says "proof attached if available". If it's not available, just send it but expect delays.
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Even if the registration is eliminated, you will still need to have a PAL.