PAL vs RPAL is one of the first questions people ask when they book a firearms course. The short answer: a PAL covers non-restricted firearms, and an RPAL adds restricted firearms. The longer answer matters more since the 2022 handgun freeze, because the reasons for getting an RPAL have changed. This guide compares the two licences side by side, explains the CFSC vs CRFSC courses and exams, sets out fees and storage rules, and states carefully what restricted licence holders can and cannot do as of October 2026. When you are ready to test yourself on the restricted rules, the free RPAL practice test has a full timed mock.
A quick note on terms. "RPAL" is not a separate card. The RCMP issues one Possession and Acquisition Licence; the privileges printed on it show whether you may possess non-restricted, restricted or prohibited firearms. People say RPAL as shorthand for "PAL with restricted privileges".
PAL vs RPAL at a glance
| PAL (non-restricted) | RPAL (PAL with restricted privileges) | |
|---|---|---|
| Firearms covered | Non-restricted: most ordinary rifles and shotguns | Non-restricted plus restricted firearms |
| Courses required | CFSC | CFSC and CRFSC |
| Minimum age | 18 (minor's licence 12 to 17) | 18 |
| Tests | Written and practical, 80% each | Two written and two practical tests (one set per course), 80% each |
| Licence fee (until 30 March 2027) | $70.38 | $93.84 (upgrade from PAL: $46.92) |
| Registration | Not required for non-restricted | Every restricted firearm must be registered |
| Acquiring firearms | Seller checks your licence with the Registrar | CFO approval for every restricted transfer; most handgun transfers frozen since 2022 |
| Storage | Unloaded plus one of three security options | Unloaded, locking device and locked container, or a vault, safe or room built for it |
| Transport | Unloaded; locked trunk if vehicle unattended | Unloaded, locking device, locked opaque container and an Authorization to Transport |
| Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
Fees are from the RCMP's changes to service fees page, checked October 2026. Storage and transport rules are from the Storage, Display, Transportation and Handling Regulations (SOR/98-209).
Key fact: An RPAL includes everything a PAL allows. You do not need two licences. If you pass both courses, you apply once for a PAL with restricted privileges.
What firearms each licence covers
The class of a firearm is set by the Criminal Code (s.84) and the classification regulations, not by how it looks. Our firearm classes guide goes deeper; here is the summary.
Non-restricted (PAL)
Any firearm that is neither restricted nor prohibited. This includes most bolt, lever, pump and break-action rifles and shotguns used for hunting and target shooting, and some semi-automatic long guns that are not otherwise restricted or prohibited.
Restricted (RPAL)
- Handguns that are not prohibited.
- Semi-automatic centre-fire firearms with a barrel under 470 mm, unless prohibited.
- Firearms that can fire when folded or telescoped to under 660 mm.
- Firearms prescribed as restricted by regulation.
Prohibited (neither licence, for new owners)
Handguns with a barrel of 105 mm or less or chambered for .25 or .32 calibre (with a narrow competition exception), sawed-off rifles and shotguns, automatic firearms, and models prescribed as prohibited. Many models have been added to the prohibited list since 2020. Prohibited privileges exist only for grandfathered owners.
Exam tip: The CRFSC tests the rules for each class, not lists of models. Learn the 470 mm, 660 mm and 105 mm thresholds and what each one means.
CFSC vs CRFSC: the two courses
The Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) is the foundation for every licence. The Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) builds on it with handguns and restricted-firearm law. You must pass both for an RPAL (rcmp.ca safety courses).
| CFSC | CRFSC | |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Anyone 12 or older can take the tests | Adults 18 and older |
| Minimum length (Ontario FSESO) | 8 instructional hours | 6 hours, or 4 hours back to back with the CFSC |
| Official topics | 9 (classes and parts, ACTS and PROVE, ammunition, actions, handling and carries, firing, care, the law, storage and transport) | 8 (restricted and prohibited classes, ACTS and PROVE, handgun ammunition, handgun actions, handgun firing, care, owner responsibilities, restricted storage and transport) |
| Practical test | Long guns: bolt, lever, pump, break, semi-automatic | Handguns: revolvers and semi-automatic pistols |
| Written questions | Not published by the RCMP; commonly about 50 | Not published; commonly about 50 |
| Pass mark | 80% (delivery agents) | 80% (delivery agents) |
| Ontario FSESO price (2026) | $210 | $170; both courses $380 |
What the CRFSC adds
- Handgun actions: revolvers (swing-out, top-break, loading gate), semi-automatic pistols and trigger systems (single action, double action only, DA/SA). See the handgun actions study note.
- Handgun firing: grip, stance and why you never cross your thumbs behind a revolver cylinder.
- Registration and transfers: every restricted firearm is registered, and every restricted transfer needs CFO approval for a lawful purpose.
- Authorization to Transport (ATT): when you need one and what it covers.
- Stricter storage, display and transport. Covered in the restricted rules study note.
Exams: is the RPAL test harder?
Most candidates find the CRFSC similar in difficulty to the CFSC but more legal. The written test leans on precise rules: the four transport conditions, the display rule at home, which documents you carry to the range. The practical is shorter, with fewer action types, but handguns are easy to sweep across people, so muzzle control is watched closely. Our PAL practical test guide includes handgun unloading steps.
Fees and costs compared
| Cost (as of October 2026) | PAL | RPAL |
|---|---|---|
| RCMP licence fee | $70.38 | $93.84 |
| Upgrade later (PAL to RPAL) | $46.92 | |
| Course, Ontario example | CFSC $210 | CFSC + CRFSC $380 |
| Fees from 31 March 2027 | $72.35 | $96.47 (upgrade $48.24) |
Licence fees are indexed every 31 March. Course prices are set by instructors and vary by province; our PAL course guide has ranges. If you think you may want restricted privileges, taking both courses together usually costs less than two separate bookings, and paying $93.84 once is cheaper than $70.38 now plus a $46.92 upgrade later.
Storage and transport: PAL vs RPAL rules
This is where the two licences differ most in daily life, and where the exams ask the most questions. All rules are from SOR/98-209. Our transporting firearms guide covers scenarios in detail.
Storage
| Class | Rule |
|---|---|
| Non-restricted | Unloaded, and one of: a secure locking device, the bolt or bolt-carrier removed, or a locked container, receptacle or room that cannot readily be broken into. Ammunition not readily accessible unless locked up. |
| Restricted | Unloaded, and either a secure locking device plus a locked container, receptacle or room that cannot readily be broken into, or a vault, safe or room specifically built or modified for secure storage. Ammunition locked away. |
Display at home
- Non-restricted: unloaded, with a locking device or in a locked container or room, and not with ammunition that fits it.
- Restricted: unloaded, with a locking device, securely attached to a non-portable structure so it cannot readily be removed, and not with ammunition.
Transport
- Non-restricted: unloaded. In an unattended vehicle, in the locked trunk, or out of sight in the locked vehicle if there is no trunk.
- Restricted: unloaded, a secure locking device, in a locked opaque container, and you must travel under an Authorization to Transport. When an RPAL is issued or renewed, an ATT to approved ranges and clubs in your province is attached automatically. Other trips need a separate ATT from the CFO.
Where you can keep it
A restricted firearm may be possessed only at your dwelling-house recorded in the Firearms Registry or another place a CFO authorizes. You cannot simply leave it at a friend's place.
Key fact: Restricted transport needs four things: unloaded, locking device, locked opaque container, and an ATT. Missing any one is an offence.
The handgun freeze: what RPAL holders can and cannot do in 2026
This section is the main reason the PAL vs RPAL question has changed. We have stuck closely to the RCMP's own description on its classes of firearms page (modified 8 June 2026). Laws in this area change often, so confirm anything important with your CFO.
What happened
A national freeze on the sale, purchase and transfer of handguns by individuals within Canada, and on bringing newly acquired handguns into Canada, came into force by regulation on 21 October 2022 (SOR/2022-219). It was written into the Firearms Act when the former Bill C-21 came into force on 15 December 2023.
What RPAL holders can still do
- Keep and use handguns registered to them before 21 October 2022, including at approved ranges under an ATT.
- Transfer a registered handgun to an exempt individual or a licensed business (including a museum).
- Deactivate a handgun, or surrender it to police or a firearms officer for destruction (without compensation).
- Export a handgun, subject to Global Affairs Canada rules.
- Possess and acquire other restricted firearms that remain restricted, such as some non-prohibited restricted long guns, with CFO approval for a lawful purpose (for example target shooting at an approved club, or a collection for restricted long guns) and registration.
What most RPAL holders cannot do
- Buy, sell or receive a handgun from or to another individual who is not exempt.
- Bring a newly acquired handgun into Canada.
- Acquire any model now classed as prohibited. Many models were reclassified since 2020, and an amnesty for some of them is still running.
Who is exempt
- People who train, compete or coach in a handgun shooting discipline on the programme of the International Olympic Committee or the International Paralympic Committee.
- Holders of an Authorization to Carry handguns (a rare authorization for lawful occupation or protection of life).
Inheritance
The RCMP page does not set out a specific rule for passing registered handguns to heirs. If you expect to inherit or leave handguns, ask your CFO before relying on any plan.
Key fact: The freeze limits acquiring handguns. It did not cancel the RPAL, remove existing owners' handguns, or end the CRFSC. The course is still required to possess any restricted firearm.
Which licence do you need?
Work through these questions in order:
- Do you only want to hunt or target shoot with ordinary rifles and shotguns? Take the CFSC and get a PAL.
- Are you 12 to 17? You can only get a minor's licence for non-restricted firearms.
- Do you already own, or expect to inherit, restricted firearms? You need restricted privileges to possess them. Take the CRFSC.
- Do you want a restricted long gun that is still legal to acquire? You need an RPAL, plus CFO approval and registration for each transfer.
- Do you train, compete or coach in an Olympic or Paralympic handgun discipline? You may fall under the exemption. Confirm with your CFO.
- Not sure yet? Taking both courses back to back is usually cheaper than adding the CRFSC later, and an RPAL includes everything a PAL covers.
For the full application process, read how to get a PAL.
Your study plan
- Decide which licence you need using the checklist above.
- Read the free CRFSC exam guide and the ACTS and PROVE note.
- Take the free RPAL diagnostic to see where you stand on restricted rules.
- Drill the restricted firearms topic and the storage and transport topic.
- Take the free full RPAL mock, and the free PAL mock if you are doing both courses.
- For more timed mocks and every topic drill, Pro adds mocks 2 to 10 for both tests. This site is an independent study aid; your instructor runs the real exams.
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 a PAL and an RPAL?
A PAL covers non-restricted firearms only. An RPAL is a PAL with restricted privileges, which lets you also possess and, where the law allows, acquire restricted firearms. You need both the CFSC and the CRFSC for an RPAL. It is one licence card, with the privileges shown on it.
+Is the RPAL worth it in 2026?
It depends on your goals. If you only hunt with ordinary rifles and shotguns, a PAL is enough. An RPAL is still useful if you want restricted long guns that remain legal, already own or may inherit restricted firearms, or qualify for a handgun exemption. You cannot buy a handgun from another individual in most cases.
+Can you still get an RPAL in Canada?
Yes. The CRFSC and restricted privileges still exist. The 2022 handgun freeze limits acquiring handguns, but it did not abolish the RPAL or restricted firearms.
+Can I buy a handgun with an RPAL?
In most cases, no. Since 21 October 2022, individuals in Canada generally cannot buy, sell or otherwise transfer handguns. Exemptions exist for people who train, compete or coach in an Olympic or Paralympic handgun discipline and for Authorization to Carry holders.
+Can I take the CFSC and CRFSC at the same time?
Yes. Many providers run them back to back over a weekend or a few days. In Ontario, FSESO lists a combined price of $380 for both courses.
+Is the RPAL test harder than the PAL test?
Candidates usually find it similar in difficulty but more detailed on the law. The CRFSC adds handgun actions, registration, transfers, Authorizations to Transport and stricter storage, display and transport rules. Both tests use an 80% pass mark according to delivery agents.
+How old do you have to be to get an RPAL?
18. The CRFSC is an introductory course for people over 18 who want to own restricted firearms. Ages 12 to 17 can only get a minor's licence for non-restricted firearms.
+Can I upgrade my PAL to an RPAL later?
Yes. Take and pass the CRFSC, then apply to add restricted privileges. As of October 2026 the upgrade fee is $46.92, which is half the restricted licence fee.
+What does the R in RPAL stand for?
Restricted. RPAL is an informal name for a Possession and Acquisition Licence with restricted privileges. The RCMP issues one PAL, and the card shows which classes you may possess.
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
- 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.
- How to Get Your PAL in CanadaThe 5 steps to a Canadian firearms licence: course, exams, RCMP 5592 application, references, and wait times. Includes RPAL and minors.
- 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.
- Firearm Classes in CanadaHow Canada classifies firearms, examples in each class, what licence you need, and how classes appear on the CFSC and CRFSC exams.
- PAL Course Guide: Cost, Length and Online OptionsWhat a CFSC/CRFSC course costs, how long it takes, whether you can do it online or challenge the exam, and how to choose an instructor.