Non-Restricted PAL in Canada — Complete Guide
A non-restricted PAL authorizes you to possess and acquire non-restricted firearms — primarily rifles and shotguns and their replicas. It requires passing the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) and costs $60. It does not permit possession of restricted or prohibited firearms.
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Restricted PAL | Fee | $60 |
| Non-Restricted PAL | Validity | 5 years |
| Course Required | Name | CFSC (Canadian Firearms Safety Course) |
| CFSC Written Exam | Pass Mark | 80% |
| CFSC Practical Exam | Pass Mark | 100% |
| Storage Rule | Requirement | Trigger lock OR locked container |
| Storage Rule | Restricted | Trigger lock AND locked container |
| Transport | Non-restricted | Unloaded; no ATT required |
What Firearms Does a Non-Restricted PAL Cover?
A non-restricted PAL covers non-restricted firearms: most rifles with barrels over 470mm, most shotguns with barrels over 457mm, and their replicas. Common examples include hunting rifles (e.g., Remington 700), lever-action rifles, and pump-action shotguns. Handguns and AR-15 style rifles are not covered.
What Is the CFSC and How Do You Pass It?
The Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) is a one-day instructor-led course covering safe handling, storage, transportation, ammunition, and legal requirements. You must pass a written exam (80% pass mark) and a practical exam (100% — no errors permitted). Prepare with our free CFSC practice tests.
How Do You Store Non-Restricted Firearms?
Non-restricted firearms must be stored unloaded with either a trigger lock applied OR locked in a secure container, room, or vault. Ammunition may be stored separately or in the same locked container. The "AND" rule (trigger lock AND locked container) applies only to restricted and prohibited firearms.
Can You Transport Non-Restricted Firearms Without an ATT?
Yes. Non-restricted firearms do not require an Authorization to Transport (ATT). They must be unloaded and either in a locked container or made inoperable during transport. You can transport a non-restricted firearm to a range, gun shop, or hunting area without any prior authorization.