Exam guide: CRFSC tests and restricted (RPAL) privileges
466 words · checked 2026-10-03 · Free
At a glance
| Item | What to expect (checked 2026-10-03) |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Required (in addition to the CFSC) for a licence with restricted privileges ("RPAL") - Firearms Act s.7(2) |
| Who may take it | Adults 18+; you must also pass the CFSC (often taken back-to-back) |
| Format | Classroom instruction, a written test and a practical handling test with handguns and dummy ammunition |
| Pass mark | 80 % on each test (CFO delivery agents) |
| Number of questions / time | Not published nationally; our mocks use 50 questions |
| Course length | Set provincially (Ontario FSESO: at least 6 h; 4 h when taken back-to-back with the CFSC) |
| Challenge test | Not available to new applicants |
The eight official CRFSC topics
- Evolution of firearms, major parts, types and actions (handguns; restricted vs prohibited classes)
- Basic firearms safety practices (ACTS, PROVE)
- Ammunition (handgun calibres; prohibited ammunition)
- Operating handgun actions (revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, trigger systems, safeties)
- Firing techniques and procedures for handguns (grip, stance, range rules)
- Care of restricted firearms
- Responsibilities of the owner/user (RPAL, registration, transfers, ATT)
- Safe storage, display, transportation and handling of restricted firearms
Key fact: Restricted transport needs unloaded + locking device + locked opaque container + ATT. Display at home needs the firearm attached to a non-portable structure. These two rules are classic CRFSC questions.
The practical test
Expect to identify revolver and semi-automatic actions, find cylinder releases, slide stops and safeties, load and unload with dummy rounds (magazine out first on a pistol, check every chamber of a revolver), PROVE each handgun and apply a secure locking device. Keep the muzzle in the safe direction throughout - including when you set a handgun down.
Fees and application
- Course fees are set by instructors (e.g. Ontario FSESO 2026: CRFSC $170; CFSC + CRFSC $380).
- Licence fee (until 30 March 2027): $93.84 for a restricted/prohibited licence; $46.92 to upgrade an existing non-restricted PAL. From 31 March 2027: $96.47 / $48.24.
- First-time applicants wait at least 28 days; licences are valid for 5 years.
Important context for 2026
- Since 21 October 2022 individuals can generally no longer acquire handguns by transfer in Canada; the CRFSC is still required to possess other restricted firearms, to keep handguns already owned, and for some workplace and sport exceptions.
- Many semi-automatic models have been reclassified as prohibited since 2020. The course tests the legal rules, not model lists.
Retests
Set by your province's delivery agent. Commonly one retest; failing again means repeating the course.
Study plan using this app
- Read this guide and the free ACTS/PROVE note.
- Study the handgun actions note and the restricted rules note, then the storage/transport table.
- Take the three exam-style practice papers (50 questions, 80 % to pass).