What Is the CRFSC? Complete Guide for 2026

What Does CRFSC Stand For?

CRFSC stands for the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course. It is the official safety training course required by Canadian law for anyone who wants to obtain a Restricted Possession and Acquisition Licence (RPAL). The RPAL allows you to possess and acquire restricted firearms, which are primarily handguns and certain semi-automatic rifles with short barrels.

The CRFSC is administered by certified firearms safety instructors across Canada and is regulated by the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program. It is the second of two required courses — you must also complete the CFSC (Canadian Firearms Safety Course) before or alongside the CRFSC.

Who Needs to Take the CRFSC?

You need to take the CRFSC if you want to:

• Own a handgun (any calibre, any type)
• Purchase restricted firearms from a licensed dealer
• Receive a restricted firearm as a gift or inheritance
• Join a shooting club or range that uses restricted firearms
• Upgrade from a PAL (non-restricted only) to an RPAL (restricted)

The CRFSC is NOT required if you only plan to own non-restricted firearms (most rifles and shotguns). For those, only the CFSC and a standard PAL are needed.

What Does the CRFSC Cover?

The CRFSC curriculum is focused specifically on restricted firearms. It builds on the foundation laid by the CFSC and covers these key topics:

CRFSC Course Format

The CRFSC course typically takes one half-day to one full day to complete. Most instructors schedule it as the second day of a combined CFSC + CRFSC weekend. The course includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practical training with restricted firearms (using dummy ammunition). At the end of the course, you will take two evaluations: a written exam and a practical exam.

The written exam consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. You have approximately 45 minutes to complete it, and you need a score of 80% or higher (24 out of 30) to pass. The practical exam tests your ability to safely handle, load, unload, and PROVE restricted firearm types — typically a revolver and a semi-automatic pistol.

How to Prepare for the CRFSC Exam

1. Complete the CFSC first. The CRFSC builds on CFSC knowledge. Make sure you have a solid understanding of ACTS, PROVE, and general firearms safety before starting the CRFSC.
2. Take practice tests. Our free CRFSC practice test contains 30 questions that mirror the real exam format and difficulty.
3. Study the key differences. Focus on what is different about restricted firearms: the AND rule for storage, ATT requirements, 10-round magazine limits for handguns, and the difference between revolver and semi-auto PROVE procedures.
4. Practice hands-on PROVE. If possible, familiarise yourself with the physical steps of PROVE for both revolvers and semi-automatic pistols before the practical exam.
5. Take multiple mock exams. Aim for 90%+ on practice exams to build a comfortable margin for the real test.

CRFSC vs CFSC: Key Differences

After the CRFSC: Next Steps

Once you pass both the CFSC and CRFSC courses, you can apply for your RPAL. The application requires completing RCMP Form 5592, attaching your course completion certificates, two passport-style photos, and the application fee (approximately $80 CAD for a combined PAL/RPAL). Processing times vary by province but typically range from 45 days to 6 months.

After receiving your RPAL, you will need to join an approved shooting range before purchasing your first restricted firearm. The RPAL comes with an automatic ATT (Authorization to Transport) for standard routes: home to range, gunsmith, dealer, and firearms shows. For more details, read our RPAL preparation guide.