Acquiring Your Category H Handgun Licence (Victoria)
If you’re interested in getting involved in pistol shooting for sport, there is a clear process you must follow in Victoria. This guide explains the steps to move from your first visit at Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club through to holding your own Category H handgun licence, in line with Victoria Police Licensing and Regulation Division requirements.
Important notes
The Licensing and Regulation Division (LRD) of Victoria Police oversees firearm licensing in Victoria. You must have a genuine reason to own a firearm – sports shooting is one of the valid reasons. Always refer to Victoria Police and Justice Victoria for up-to-date requirements.
How the process works
Step 1 – Visit the club
To be eligible for membership and, later, to own a pistol for sport shooting, you first need to visit the club and complete your initial NORI (Notification of Receiving Instruction). During NORI shoots you will be instructed in safe firearm handling so you build good habits from day one.
Step 2 – Complete 4 NORI shoots
LRD requires you to complete 4 NORI sessions before you can apply for a provisional Category H licence. At each NORI you will be supervised by a licensed club representative who will instruct you in safe handgun use and basic target shooting.
Step 3 – Become a member of CDPC
Once you have completed your 4 NORIs you become eligible to join the club as a member.
– Membership application form: Join CDPC
– More details on membership categories and fees: Membership Info
Step 4 – Complete your Handgun Safety Course
Handgun Safety Courses are run regularly at the club. These sessions give a more in-depth overview of safe handgun handling, how different handgun types work (revolvers and semi-automatic pistols) and include a practical component to confirm that you understand the fundamentals.
Step 5 – Apply for your Provisional Handgun Licence
Next you will need to create an eServices account with Victoria Police and apply for a Provisional Handgun Licence.
You will typically need:
– Your CDPC membership number
– Evidence of your affiliation with CDPC
– Your handgun safety certificate (can often be provided after you submit your application)
– Any other documents required by LRD
It is strongly recommended you apply for a 12-month provisional licence to help cover any processing delays. Never send original documents – always send certified copies only.
Step 6 – Complete 5 competition shoots
Once you hold your provisional licence you can compete in matches at the club (ISSF, IPSC and Single Action) and legally purchase ammunition appropriate to your licence in Victoria. You must complete the minimum required number of competition shoots – currently 5 for Victoria.
Step 7 – Be a member for at least 6 months
You will need to have been a CDPC member for at least 6 months. This allows the committee to get to know you and your involvement in the sport.
During this time you should also:
– Complete your fingerprint live scan appointment with Victoria Police
– Complete a National Police Record Check
Both of these are required as part of the Category H licensing process.
Step 8 – Obtain club endorsement
Once you have met the shooting and membership requirements, you will need to request a club endorsement from the committee. After endorsement, you can apply for your Full Category H licence.
Step 9 – Apply for your Full Category H Licence
Using eServices again, you can now apply for your Full Cat H licence.
You will:
– Complete the online application
– Print the finalised paperwork
– Bring the paperwork to the club for a committee member to complete the endorsement section
– Send the endorsed paperwork via registered post to LRD and wait for approval
Step 10 – Apply for a Permit to Acquire (PTA)
When your full licence is approved you can apply for a Permit to Acquire your first handgun.
You must:
– Have a valid reason for the handgun (e.g. specific discipline/match)
– Complete the PTA form carefully (see example PTA if provided by the club)
– Send the PTA via registered post and await approval
Step 11 – Enjoy the sport and explore disciplines
With your handgun and licence in place, the full world of sports shooting opens up. You can:
– Try different disciplines (ISSF, IPSC, Single Action, etc.)
– Shoot matches at CDPC and at other clubs
– Continue building skills and participating in competitions across Victoria
This guide is a summary only and does not replace official information from Victoria Police or legal advice. Always check the current requirements on the Victoria Police website.
Last Updated: March 2025
Useful links
– Victoria Police – New Firearm Applicants
– Victoria Police eServices – Login / Register
– Justice Victoria – Certified Copies
– Victoria Police – Fingerprints and National Police Checks
Need help with the process?
If you’re unsure about any step in acquiring your handgun licence, talk to a committee member or a club trainer during your next visit.