ATT: Authorization to Transport Guide

What Is an ATT?

An ATT (Authorization to Transport) is a legal authorization required to transport restricted or prohibited firearms in Canada. Without an ATT, it is illegal to move a restricted firearm from one location to another — even from your home to a nearby shooting range. The ATT system ensures that restricted firearms are only transported for legitimate purposes and under safe conditions.

Automatic ATT

Since December 2015, an automatic ATT is attached to every Restricted Possession and Acquisition Licence (RPAL). This means you do NOT need to apply for a separate ATT for the most common transport scenarios. The automatic ATT covers transport between:

• Your home and an approved shooting range
• Your home and a gunsmith
• Your home and a licensed firearms dealer
• Your home and a firearms show or exhibition
• Your home and a border crossing point (for approved travel)
• Between these locations and back

Transport Rules

Even with a valid ATT, you must follow strict rules when transporting restricted firearms:

1. The firearm must be unloaded
2. A trigger lock or cable lock must be engaged
3. The firearm must be in a locked, opaque container
4. You must take a reasonably direct route — no unnecessary stops
5. The firearm must be out of sight during transport
6. You must carry your RPAL and be able to show it if asked by police

When You Need a Separate ATT

The automatic ATT does not cover all situations. You need to apply for a special ATT if you want to transport restricted firearms to locations not covered by the automatic ATT, such as a friend's property that is not an approved range, or to a location in another province. Contact the Chief Firearms Officer in your province for special ATT applications.

Practice ATT questions with our Storage and Transport practice test.