Canadian Gun Safety

The Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) administrates and enforces the Firearms Act, Canada's primary gun control law. As a safety measure, the CFP requires all owners to become certified via a safety course and carry a gun license.

Certification

• The Firearms Act requires all individuals with nonrestricted firearms to pass the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) or challenge the exam requirements and pass. The course teaches basic firearms safety practices, operation of firearms, safe handling, carrying and storage, and responsibility of the owner and user.

Licensing

• The CFP screens firearm license applicants and continue to reassess individuals with licenses. The CFP does not approve individuals that it believes may put public safety at risk. They also remove the license and guns from those who do not demonstrate safe and responsible use of firearms.

Investigation

• The CFP tracks gun owners with the Firearms Investigative & Enforcement Services Directorate and law enforcement to investigate illicit firearms activities. Chief Firearms Officers supervise CFSC instructors to ensure that they continue to teach safe and responsible firearm usage.