Austrian Weapons License: Weapons driving license & weapon ownership card

This course contains practical shooting as well as theoretical information. You will learn everything you need about gun ownership in Austria, how to apply for the national weapons license, called Weapon Ownership Card . At the end of the course you will receive the official weapons handling license called Waffenführerschein .

Can I apply for a Weapons License in Austria?

First, check if you are eligible for a local gun license:

• You fulfill the general requirements .
• You hold a passport in the EEA.
• You are at least 21 years of age.
• Beyond that, there are no special prerequisites!

Not Eligible? There’s more!

If you hold a foreign passport outside the EEA/EU but have a valid permanent residency permit , the Austrian government should approve your request for a license, but this is at the sole discretion of the authorities.

If you hold a foreign passport outside the EEA/EU without a permanent residency permit , you will most likely need to prove some special purpose to the authorities. A lot of applications have recently been turned down. But there are still some types of weapons which you can own without the weapon ownership card .

If you are between 18 and 21 and an EU citizen, you may still own other types of firearms. Details are covered in the course.

But I already have a license in another country

Weapons laws in the EU are implemented on a national level. Licenses for Austria are only valid in Austria. Non-Austrian licenses are not valid in Austria. If you hold a foreign license, you will still need to acquire a valid license in Austria.

However, our instructors will appreciate your practical experience and the course will be much easier for you.

How long does the firearms license course take?

The course can be completed within one day. It includes:

• approx. 1 hour of theoretical instruction (online).
• 1 questionnaire.
• approx. 1 hour of practical shooting.
• 1 firearms license document.

Yes, that’s it 😉

As we mention in the course, Austria places a lot of responsibility in your hands. The official requirements to obtain a gun ownership card are very low. To support you on your journey of handling guns safely and with the necessary routine, we offer a range of specialized shooting courses to get you from beginner to expert .

What Steps are Required to get a Gun License?

To acquire a handgun in Austria, you basically need to prove that you will not endanger anyone, you will be able to abide by the law, store your firearms and ammunition safely, handle your weapons correctly when shooting and being psychologically accountable.

If you are eligible, the requirements to possess a license are:

• Practical shooting training with handguns (pratical part of the firearms license).
• Knowledge of the Austrian weapons law (theoretical part of the weapons license).
• Psychological certification.

The latter is tested in a psychological exam conducted by licensed doctors. The costs are fixed by law and are the same at all psychologists.

Here’s a List of English-Speaking Psychologist for the Gun Ownership Card .

Where do I get the Gun License?

Once you have the firearms license (issued by us) and the psychological certification (issued by one of the registered psychologists), then you can apply for a firearms license with the local police.

Find the closest police station via this query . Enter your zip code or area to get an address.

What to Bring for the Gun Ownership Card Application?

• Weapons license
• Psychological examination
• Passport or ID
• Birth certificate
• Proof of citizenship
• Passport photo (it has to be a stamped and current photo)
• Proof of academic degree (if you want it to show up on the WBK)

Costs are fixed by law and are EUR 74.40 at the time of writing.

If granted, you are allowed to buy (usually up to two) handguns in Austria.

I have completed my Practical Shooting and would like to upgrade to the firearms license

We’re honored that you have enjoyed our courses so far.

In case you have completed the Shooting Training , just add the theoretical part of this course to your cart.

Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll receive the firearms license.

I need to renew my firearms license

If the police asked you to show proof of regular practical training with your firearm, you are welcome to join this course.

It is mandatory for handgun owners to renew their practical and theoretical skills at regular intervals. As a participant you will be able to renew your existing WFS.

What will I learn about Gun Ownership in Austria?

In the theoretical and practical parts of the course, you will learn about:

• How to shoot.
• How to safely handle a gun.
• How to safely store a gun and ammo.
• How to safely transport a gun and ammo.
• Weapons law in Austria.
• Technical terms regarding firearms and ammunition.

Practical Shooting Training with Pistol and/or Revolver

The hands-on part of the course: This is where things get more fun – learn to correctly handle and fire handguns.

What you will learn

• Shoot on the range up to 25 meters
• Safe handling
• Correct aiming with open sights
• Ergonomic shooting stances
• Loading, reloading
• Restoring safety after shooting
• Clearing stoppages

Where can I do the Weapons License Course?

We offer courses in Vienna and Lower Austria .

The theoretical part can be done anywhere in the form of online e-learning .

Private lessons for individuals and groups are also available.

What to bring?

All materials will be supplied. No hidden costs.

Included in the booking

• Weapons license document.
• Rental firearms.
• Rental ear muffs.
• Rental safety goggles.
• Targets.
• Up to 20 shots with handguns.

Gear to bring

Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather. We recommend  Hosn . Most ranges have a roof but are in the open air.

Your Firearms Safety Instructors

Get to know our team on the main page for shooting trainings .

We are looking forward to a safe and rewarding course!

Photos by Patrick Esser,  Tom Weilguny  or Markus Weilguny , unless stated otherwise.