Firearm Transfer Laws in Canada — Buying and Selling Legally
All firearm transfers in Canada require the buyer to have a valid PAL for that type of firearm. Restricted firearm transfers require contacting the RCMP for a reference number. Non-restricted private sales require PAL verification. Handgun sales to individuals are currently frozen under Bill C-21 (since November 2022).
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Restricted Transfer | PAL Verification | Seller must verify buyer has valid PAL |
| Restricted Transfer | Steps Required | RCMP reference number + registration transfer |
| RCMP Reference Number | Purpose | Confirms buyer eligibility for restricted transfer |
| Handgun Private Sale | Status | Frozen under Bill C-21 (since Nov 2022) |
| Gift Transfer | Rule | Same rules as sale apply |
| Estate Transfer | Non-restricted | To eligible family with valid PAL |
| Estate Transfer | Restricted | Must go through CFO approval |
How Do You Legally Sell a Non-Restricted Firearm in Canada?
To sell a non-restricted firearm privately: (1) verify the buyer has a valid PAL for non-restricted firearms, (2) record the buyer's PAL number, name, and date, (3) physically check the PAL card is not expired and the photo matches. No government notification is required for non-restricted transfers, but keep a record for your own protection.
How Do You Transfer a Restricted Firearm?
Since handgun sales to individuals are frozen (Bill C-21, 2022), restricted transfers have become very limited. For historical transfers or other restricted firearms not yet affected: (1) buyer and seller both call the RCMP at 1-800-731-4000, (2) the RCMP verifies eligibility and issues a reference number, (3) the registration transfers once approved. The full process takes 1–3 business days.
Can You Give a Firearm as a Gift?
Yes, but all transfer laws still apply. The recipient must have a valid PAL for that firearm type. Restricted transfers require RCMP reference numbers. You cannot gift a firearm to someone without a PAL. Handguns may only be gifted within very narrow circumstances under current regulations — consult a CFO for current rules.