Every firearm in Canada falls into one of three legal classes: non-restricted, restricted or prohibited. Knowing non-restricted vs restricted firearms, and where prohibited begins, is the base of almost everything else in Canadian firearms law. The class decides which licence you need, whether the firearm must be registered, how it must be stored and displayed, and whether you need an authorization to transport it.
It is also a standard exam topic. Classification sits inside the first module of both the CFSC (for the PAL) and the CRFSC (for restricted privileges), and the rules for storage and transport build on it. If you are preparing for either test, try the free RPAL practice test or the PAL practice test after reading this page.
This guide reflects the law as of October 2026. Classification has changed several times since 2020, so where something is still moving (for example, the amnesty linked to a Supreme Court case), we say so.
Where the firearm classes come from
The three classes are defined in Criminal Code s.84(1). Those definitions do two things:
- They set general rules based on features such as barrel length, overall length, action type and calibre.
- They allow the government to prescribe specific firearms as restricted or prohibited by regulation. Those lists are in the Classification Regulations, SOR/98-462, which name models and their variants.
So a firearm can be restricted or prohibited either because of what it is (a short-barrelled handgun, say) or because it is named in the regulations. The RCMP keeps the official record of how each make and model is classified in the Firearms Reference Table. Its classes of firearms page gives the plain-language overview.
Key fact: Classification follows the law, not appearance. A firearm that looks "tactical" may be non-restricted, and a plain-looking one may be prohibited by name. On the exams, you apply the rules; you are not asked to memorize model lists.
Non-restricted firearms
Definition
A non-restricted firearm is simply one that is neither restricted nor prohibited. There is no separate list. If a firearm does not meet any restricted or prohibited test, it is non-restricted.
Typical examples
- Bolt-action, lever-action, pump-action and break-action (hinge) rifles of normal length.
- Most shotguns: pump, break-action, bolt and many semi-automatics of normal length.
- Most semi-automatic rimfire rifles, such as typical .22 calibre target and small-game rifles. The 470 mm restricted rule only applies to centre-fire semi-automatics.
- Semi-automatic centre-fire rifles and shotguns with barrels of 470 mm or longer, unless they are prohibited by name or by the newer design-based rule described below. Many such models have been prohibited since 2020, so always check.
Licence and rules
- Licence: a PAL (non-restricted), or a minor's licence for 12 to 17 year olds to borrow for approved purposes.
- Registration: not registered federally. Québec runs its own registry for non-restricted firearms in that province.
- Transfers: the seller must confirm with the Registrar that the buyer's licence is valid and get a reference number.
- Storage and transport: unloaded, plus a locking device, removed bolt or locked container for storage. See firearm storage rules in Canada.
Restricted firearms
The four ways a firearm is restricted
Under s.84(1), a restricted firearm is:
- A handgun that is not prohibited.
- A semi-automatic centre-fire firearm with a barrel under 470 mm that is not prohibited.
- A firearm designed or adapted to fire when reduced to under 660 mm in overall length by folding, telescoping or otherwise.
- Any firearm prescribed as restricted by regulation.
A "handgun" is any firearm designed, altered or intended to be aimed and fired with one hand, even if it has later been altered for two-handed use.
Typical examples
- Semi-automatic pistols and revolvers with barrels longer than 105 mm that are not chambered for .25 or .32 and not prohibited by name.
- Short-barrelled semi-automatic centre-fire rifles (under 470 mm) that are not prohibited.
- Long guns with folding or telescoping stocks that can still fire when collapsed below 660 mm.
- A few models prescribed as restricted by name.
Licence and rules
- Licence: a PAL with restricted privileges (RPAL), which requires passing both the CFSC and CRFSC. See PAL vs RPAL.
- Registration: every restricted firearm needs a registration certificate.
- Transfers: the Chief Firearms Officer must approve each one, for a lawful purpose such as target shooting at an approved club or range, a collection (for restricted long guns), or a lawful occupation.
- Handgun freeze: since 21 October 2022, individuals generally cannot acquire handguns by transfer in Canada. The freeze was written into the Firearms Act in December 2023. People who already owned handguns may keep and use them lawfully.
- Transport: unloaded, locking device, locked opaque container and an authorization to transport (ATT). See transporting firearms in Canada.
Prohibited firearms
What makes a firearm prohibited
A prohibited firearm under s.84(1) is:
- A handgun with a barrel of 105 mm or less, or one designed or adapted to fire .25 or .32 calibre cartridges. Certain prescribed pistols for international sport shooting competitions are excepted.
- A rifle or shotgun that has been cut down or altered so that it is under 660 mm overall, or is 660 mm or longer but has a barrel under 457 mm.
- An automatic firearm, meaning one capable of firing in rapid succession with one pull of the trigger, even if it has been converted to fire one shot per pull.
- Any firearm prescribed as prohibited by regulation.
- An unlawfully manufactured firearm (often called a "ghost gun"), however it was made. This was added in December 2023.
- A new-design semi-automatic centre-fire long gun: a firearm that is not a handgun, fires centre-fire ammunition semi-automatically, was originally designed with a detachable magazine holding six or more cartridges, and was designed and manufactured on or after the date that rule came into force (15 December 2023).
Licence and rules
- Licence: prohibited privileges are only available to individuals who qualify under the grandfathering rules in Firearms Act s.12, which tie eligibility to owning particular prohibited firearms on particular past dates. A new licence holder cannot simply add prohibited privileges.
- Registration: grandfathered prohibited firearms must be registered.
- Storage and transport: the restricted rules, plus extra conditions for automatics (the removable bolt or bolt carrier kept in a separate locked room).
- Newly prohibited models (2020 onward): these were not added to the grandfathering system. Owners are covered by amnesty orders instead, explained below.
Key fact: The two numbers that most often decide a handgun question are 105 mm and .25/.32. At 105 mm or under, or in .25 or .32 calibre, a handgun is prohibited; otherwise, unless prohibited by name, it is restricted.
Barrel and overall length rules
Length thresholds come up again and again, on the exams and in real life.
| Measurement | Threshold | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Handgun barrel | 105 mm or less | Prohibited |
| Handgun barrel | Over 105 mm (not .25/.32, not prescribed) | Restricted |
| Semi-auto centre-fire barrel | Under 470 mm (not otherwise prohibited) | Restricted |
| Semi-auto centre-fire barrel | 470 mm or more (not otherwise prohibited) | Non-restricted |
| Folding or telescoping firearm | Fires when under 660 mm overall | Restricted |
| Altered rifle or shotgun, overall | Under 660 mm | Prohibited |
| Altered rifle or shotgun, barrel | Under 457 mm (overall 660 mm or more) | Prohibited |
How barrel length is measured
Criminal Code s.84(2) sets the method:
- Revolver: from the muzzle to the breech end immediately in front of the cylinder.
- Any other firearm: from the muzzle to and including the chamber.
- Not counted: any added part designed to suppress muzzle flash or reduce recoil, such as a muzzle brake or flash hider.
That last point matters: you cannot make a short barrel "longer" for classification purposes by adding a muzzle device.
Exam tip: Watch for questions that change one unit or word, such as "less than" vs "equal to or less than". The handgun rule is "105 mm or less"; the semi-auto rule is "less than 470 mm"; the sawed-off rule is "less than 660 mm" overall or "less than 457 mm" barrel.
Recent prohibitions (May 2020 to October 2026)
Since 2020, the federal government has used regulations, issued by Order in Council, to prohibit many firearms by name. Here is what changed, as of October 2026.
| Date | Instrument | What it did |
|---|---|---|
| 1 May 2020 | SOR/2020-96 | Prohibited about 1,500 models and variants in nine main families: the M16/AR-10/AR-15/M4 pattern, Ruger Mini-14, US M14, Vz58, Robinson Armament XCR, CZ Scorpion EVO 3, Beretta Cx4 Storm, SIG Sauer MCX and MPX, and Swiss Arms Classic Green and Four Seasons. Also prohibited any firearm with a bore of 20 mm or more, or muzzle energy above 10,000 joules, and AR-pattern upper receivers (as prohibited devices). |
| 21 October 2022 | SOR/2022-219 | National handgun freeze on transfers to individuals (not a reclassification). |
| 15 December 2023 | Bill C-21 (S.C. 2023, c. 32) | Freeze written into the Firearms Act; unlawfully manufactured firearms and new-design semi-automatic centre-fire long guns added to the prohibited definition. |
| 1 September 2024 | C-21 provisions in force | A licence is required to buy or import ammunition, cartridge magazines and firearm parts such as barrels and handgun slides. |
| 5 December 2024 | SOR/2024-248 | Prohibited 104 more families covering 324 makes and models. |
| 7 March 2025 | SOR/2025-86 | Prohibited 40 more families covering 179 makes and models. |
| 5 June 2026 | SOR/2026-114 | Changed the end of all three amnesty periods (2020, 2024, 2025) to 90 days after the Supreme Court of Canada appeals challenging the prohibitions are concluded. |
Where things stand in October 2026
- Classification Regulations: the most recent amendment to SOR/98-462 we can find is SOR/2025-86 (March 2025). We found no further classification changes up to October 2026.
- Amnesty: owners of firearms prohibited in 2020, 2024 and 2025 are protected from criminal liability while the amnesty runs, as long as they follow its conditions (in general, the firearms stay securely stored and are not used, sold or transferred except as the orders allow). The Supreme Court of Canada agreed in March 2026 to hear appeals challenging the prohibitions. Under SOR/2026-114, the amnesty ends 90 days after those appeals are concluded, replacing the earlier 30 October 2026 date. Some RCMP pages still showed the old date when we checked.
- Compensation program: Public Safety Canada's Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program closed its declaration period for individuals on 31 March 2026, and the department said in June 2026 that collection would continue into the fall.
Because this area is still changing, check the RCMP classes of firearms page and Public Safety Canada before relying on any status. Nothing on this page is legal advice.
Key fact: Older study material and forum posts may still list the AR-15 as "restricted". That was true before 1 May 2020. It is now prohibited.
Related categories you should know
Antique firearms
An antique firearm is one made before 1898 that was not designed or redesigned to fire rim-fire or centre-fire cartridges, or one prescribed as antique. Antiques are deemed not to be firearms for licensing and registration, so no licence is needed to own one. They must still be stored, displayed and transported unloaded. Note that a modern reproduction of an old design is not an antique.
Low-powered air guns and other devices
An air gun or other barrelled weapon that cannot fire a projectile faster than 152.4 m per second or with more than 5.7 joules of energy is deemed not to be a firearm for licensing purposes. Above both limits, it is a firearm and needs a licence. Signal flares, nail guns and similar devices used only for their designed purpose are also excluded.
Prohibited devices
Some parts and accessories are prohibited devices rather than firearms:
- Handgun barrels of 105 mm or less (with the same competition exception).
- Silencers and suppressors.
- Replica firearms.
- Large-capacity magazines: generally more than 5 cartridges for a semi-automatic centre-fire long gun, and more than 10 cartridges for a semi-automatic handgun, with some exceptions (for example, Lee-Enfield rifle magazines up to 10). A magazine permanently altered to the legal limit is allowed.
These limits feed directly into exam questions on ammunition and magazines, and into the rules in our ammunition storage guide.
Licence needed for each class
| Class | Licence | Registration | Transfer approval | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-restricted | PAL (minor's licence to borrow) | No (federal); Québec has its own registry | Registrar reference number | Unloaded; vehicle rules if unattended |
| Restricted | PAL with restricted privileges (RPAL) | Yes | CFO approval; handgun freeze applies | Unloaded, locking device, locked opaque case, ATT |
| Prohibited | Prohibited privileges, grandfathered owners only | Yes | Very limited | Restricted rules plus extra conditions |
| Antique | None | No | None | Unloaded |
How firearm classes appear on the CFSC and CRFSC exams
On the CFSC (PAL)
Classification is part of the first official topic, evolution of firearms, major parts and types. Expect questions that:
- ask you to name the three classes and which one most hunting rifles and shotguns fall into;
- give a description (action, barrel length, centre-fire or rimfire) and ask for the class;
- link the class to the right storage, display or transport rule, which is the highest-weighted topic on the test;
- check that you know a PAL alone does not cover restricted firearms.
On the CRFSC (RPAL)
The restricted course goes deeper. You will see questions on:
- the 105 mm and .25/.32 handgun rules;
- the 470 mm and 660 mm thresholds;
- registration certificates, CFO transfer approval and the handgun freeze;
- the ATT, and the documents to carry to the range (licence, registration certificate, ATT);
- prohibited devices, especially magazine limits.
Worked classification examples
| Description | Class | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt-action centre-fire hunting rifle, 560 mm barrel | Non-restricted | Not a handgun, not semi-auto, not prescribed |
| Semi-auto .22 rimfire rifle, 450 mm barrel | Non-restricted (unless prescribed) | The 470 mm rule applies only to centre-fire |
| Semi-auto centre-fire rifle, 406 mm barrel, not named in regulations | Restricted | Centre-fire semi-auto with barrel under 470 mm |
| Revolver, 152 mm barrel, .38 Special | Restricted | Handgun over 105 mm, not .25/.32 |
| Semi-auto pistol, 95 mm barrel | Prohibited | Handgun barrel 105 mm or less |
| Pump shotgun cut to a 400 mm barrel | Prohibited | Altered long gun, barrel under 457 mm |
Exam tip: Work through the tests in order: is it automatic or altered? Is it a handgun, and how long is the barrel? Is it a centre-fire semi-auto under 470 mm? Does it fire when folded under 660 mm? If none applies and it is not prescribed, it is non-restricted.
For a fuller review, read the free study notes on evolution of firearms and the three classes and restricted firearms rules.
Your study plan for classification questions
Our practice tests are an independent study aid built from the national CFSC and CRFSC syllabi. They are not official RCMP material.
- Check your baseline: take the free 20-question RPAL diagnostic, or the PAL diagnostic if you are only taking the CFSC.
- Learn the numbers: write out the length table above from memory until you get it right twice in a row.
- Drill the topic: practise evolution and classification questions and restricted firearms questions.
- Connect class to rules: read the CRFSC exam guide and the storage and transport pages, since many classification questions are really storage questions.
- Sit a full mock: the free RPAL mock exam has 50 questions with an 80% pass. Pro (from CA$7.99 a week, cancel anytime) gives you nine more mocks and every note; see pricing. A printable set is at /print/rpal.
10 free RPAL (CRFSC) practice questions with answers
Try each one, then open the answer. For a timed experience use the free mock exam.
1. When holstering a handgun where club rules allow it, what is the main safety concern?
- A. The grip panels coming loose
- B. The sights picking up dust
- C. Something catching the trigger
- D. Scratching the holster's finish
Show answer
C. Something catching the trigger
The finger must be off the trigger, and clothing or holster straps must be clear, because anything pressing the trigger during holstering can fire the handgun.
2. Why do ranges usually prohibit shooting at targets placed on the ground in front of the backstop?
- A. It makes targets too easy to hit
- B. Shots can ricochet off the ground
- C. It damages the grass
- D. It is too hard to see
Show answer
B. Shots can ricochet off the ground
Shooting at the ground, especially at shallow angles, can cause ricochets that leave the range. Targets should be at a height where shots hit the backstop (CFSC Handbook, Module 8).
3. Racking the slide of her pistol, where should Zara place her support hand?
- A. Over the muzzle, to pull the slide back
- B. Wrapped around the trigger guard
- C. Flat across the open ejection port
- D. On the rear serrations, behind the port
Show answer
D. On the rear serrations, behind the port
The slide is grasped at the rear serrations, with the hand behind the ejection port and well clear of the muzzle, while the pistol stays pointed downrange.
4. How is a typical single-shot break-open pistol loaded?
- A. Open it on its hinge and insert one round
- B. Insert a magazine into the grip
- C. Load a cylinder through a gate
- D. Pour powder down the barrel
Show answer
A. Open it on its hinge and insert one round
A break-open (hinge-action) single-shot pistol opens on a hinge to expose the chamber. One cartridge is inserted, the action is closed, and after firing it is opened again to remove the case.
5. Yves's pistol is in a locked safe, but he tells guests at a party the safe code so they can 'look at his collection' while he is outside. What is the risk?
- A. None, as long as the safe met the regulations
- B. Careless storage under Criminal Code s.86(1)
- C. Only a breach of his shooting club's rules
- D. Only a delay in renewing his licence
Show answer
B. Careless storage under Criminal Code s.86(1)
Criminal Code s.86(1) makes it an offence to store a firearm carelessly or without reasonable precautions for others' safety. Giving the code to unsupervised guests defeats the lock and risks misuse.
6. Hal keeps spare 9 mm cartridges rattling in his jacket with his car keys for weeks. What is the concern?
- A. It makes the cartridges more accurate
- B. It keeps the cartridges warm in winter
- C. It stops the cases from corroding
- D. Primers or bullets can be damaged or pushed in
Show answer
D. Primers or bullets can be damaged or pushed in
Loose ammunition can be knocked, dented or have its bullet pushed back into the case, which can raise pressure. Carry it in its box or a proper holder.
7. You inherit an old rifle with no data stamp showing its calibre. What should you do before firing it?
- A. Have a qualified gunsmith examine and identify it
- B. Fire one reduced load to test it
- C. Try the most common calibre for its age
- D. Match it by sliding cartridges into the chamber
Show answer
A. Have a qualified gunsmith examine and identify it
Without a data stamp you cannot be sure which ammunition is safe. A gunsmith can identify the chambering and check that the firearm is safe to use.
8. Sara wants to lend her restricted pistol to her brother for a club match she will not attend. He holds only a non-restricted PAL. May she lend it?
- A. Yes, if she lends him the certificate
- B. Yes, if he signs a loan form
- C. Yes, any PAL holder may borrow it
- D. No, he needs a licence for restricted firearms
Show answer
D. No, he needs a licence for restricted firearms
Firearms Act s.33(a) allows an unsupervised loan only if the lender has reasonable grounds to believe the borrower holds a licence for that kind of firearm, and lends the registration certificate. A non-restricted PAL is not enough.
9. Neil's paper-hulled shotshells got wet and have swollen. One is hard to push into the chamber. What should he do?
- A. Hammer it in with the heel of his hand
- B. Trim the hull with a knife
- C. Not force it; set damaged shells aside
- D. Dry it by the campfire
Show answer
C. Not force it; set damaged shells aside
Damaged or swollen shells may not chamber or extract properly and can be unsafe. Never force ammunition into a chamber, and never heat it (CFSC Handbook, Module 5).
10. Why must you never fire a modern smokeless-powder cartridge in an old firearm designed only for black powder?
- A. It will leave no fouling residue
- B. Higher pressure can burst the firearm
- C. It will be far too quiet to hear
- D. Smokeless powder cannot be ignited
Show answer
B. Higher pressure can burst the firearm
Smokeless powder generates much higher pressures than black powder. Firearms designed for black powder, especially old ones, may not withstand those pressures and can burst. Use only the ammunition or powder the firearm was designed for.
Frequently asked questions
+What is the difference between restricted and non-restricted firearms in Canada?
Non-restricted firearms are those that fall outside both the restricted and prohibited definitions, mostly ordinary rifles and shotguns. Restricted firearms include most handguns, semi-automatic centre-fire firearms with barrels under 470 mm, and firearms that can fire when folded or telescoped below 660 mm. Restricted firearms need an RPAL, registration and an authorization to transport.
+Is a .22 rifle restricted in Canada?
Most .22 rimfire rifles are non-restricted, including semi-automatics, because the 470 mm barrel rule for restricted firearms applies only to centre-fire semi-automatics. A specific model can still be restricted or prohibited by regulation or by its design, so check the RCMP Firearms Reference Table for the exact model.
+What barrel length makes a handgun prohibited in Canada?
A handgun with a barrel of 105 mm or less is prohibited, as is one designed or adapted to fire .25 or .32 calibre cartridges. There is an exception for certain prescribed pistols used in international competitions. A handgun with a longer barrel that is not otherwise prohibited is restricted.
+What firearms were banned in Canada in May 2020?
On 1 May 2020, a regulation (SOR/2020-96) prescribed about 1,500 models and variants as prohibited, including the AR-15 family, the Ruger Mini-14, the M14, the Vz58, the CZ Scorpion EVO 3, the Beretta Cx4 Storm and SIG MCX and MPX. It also prohibited firearms with a bore of 20 mm or more or muzzle energy over 10,000 joules. Further models were added in December 2024 and March 2025.
+Can you still own an AR-15 in Canada?
Since May 2020, AR-15 pattern firearms are prohibited. Owners are covered by an amnesty while the government's compensation program runs, and the amnesty now ends 90 days after the Supreme Court of Canada decides appeals challenging the prohibition. During the amnesty, owners may not use these firearms except in limited situations set out in the orders.
+What licence do I need for restricted firearms?
You need a PAL with restricted privileges, often called an RPAL, which requires passing both the CFSC and the CRFSC. Each restricted firearm must also be registered, and you need an authorization to transport to move it. Since October 2022, individuals generally cannot acquire handguns by transfer.
+How do I find out the class of a specific firearm?
The RCMP Firearms Reference Table records the legal classification of firearm makes and models. Retailers and the Canadian Firearms Program (1-800-731-4000) can tell you the classification of a particular model. Modifications such as shortening the barrel can change the class.
+Are air guns firearms in Canada?
Air guns that fire projectiles faster than 152.4 metres per second and with more than 5.7 joules of energy are firearms and need a licence. Lower-powered air guns are deemed not to be firearms for licensing purposes, but you must still handle them safely and some Criminal Code offences still apply.
Study offline on your phone too
The Canada Licence Prep app has the same questions with audio, French explanations and an ACTS & PROVE coach.
Keep reading
- PAL vs RPAL: What's the Difference?PAL covers non-restricted rifles and shotguns; RPAL adds restricted firearms. Compare courses, exams, fees, storage rules and 2026 handgun limits.
- Free RPAL Practice Test (CRFSC)Practise for the restricted (CRFSC) exam with timed 50-question RPAL mocks, handgun and storage questions, and clear explanations for every answer.
- Free PAL Practice Test (CFSC)Free 50-question CFSC mock exam for the PAL test: 80% pass mark, timed like the real thing, scored instantly with explanations. Start with a diagnostic.
- Firearm Storage Rules in CanadaPlain-English firearm storage rules from SOR/98-209 for every class, plus display, vehicles, locks and ammo. Includes 'Is it legal?' scenarios.
- Transporting Firearms in CanadaHow to legally transport non-restricted, restricted and prohibited firearms in Canada, when you need an ATT, vehicle rules, provinces and flights.
- Ammunition Storage Rules in CanadaDoes ammo have to be locked up in Canada? Federal rules for storing ammunition with or apart from firearms, home quantity limits, and exam tips.