Comprehensive Licensing Guidance

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

Step 1

Step 1: Initial Consultation

🖥️ Official Punjab PALMS Portal

Punjab Arms Licence Management System (PALMS)

  • Launched by Punjab Home Department in collaboration with NADRA.

  • Enables online application, renewal, amendments, and even transfer to heirs.

  • Features include scheduling biometric verifications and door‑to‑door license delivery.

  • Ideal for Non‑Prohibited Bore (NPB) license applications

Step 2

Step 2: Documentation Preparation

🖥️ NADRA Arms License Portal

NADRA Arms License System

  • Issues computerized PVC‑type arms license cards nationwide.

  • Used for biometric registration, police verification, and final issuance.

  • Standard source for license printing once PALMS & DC office approvals are complete

Step 3

Step 3: Application Submission

🖥️ Punjab Home Department (Home.gop.pk)

Punjab Home Department — Arms license section

  • Hosts tracking tool for application status

  • Offers updates, official notifications, and contact/support information

📰 Ministry of Interior (Pal.nadra.gov.pk)

Ministry of Interior Portal

  • Alternative gateway to apply online under Punjab Arms Rules 2023

  • Live status updates and fee schedule visible on portal

Eligibility and Licensing FAQs - ✅ Gun Licensing Procedure in Punjab, Pakistan (as of 2025)

1. What are the basic eligibility criteria for a gun license?

1. Eligibility Criteria

You must:

  • Be a Pakistani citizen and resident of Punjab.

  • Be at least 25 years old (for non-prohibited bore arms).

  • Have no criminal record.

  • Be mentally and physically fit.

  • Justify the need for a weapon (e.g., personal security, business protection).

2. Choose the Type of License

2. Choose the Type of License

  • Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB): Allowed for personal defense (e.g., 12-bore shotguns, .30 bore pistols).

  • Prohibited Bore (PB): Restricted, issued only to government officials or on special orders.

  • Institutional Licenses: For security companies, banks, firms, etc.

3. Documents Required

  • Application form (available at the DC Office or online).

  • Copy of CNIC.

  • 2 passport-size photos.

  • Police clearance certificate (issued by local police station).

  • Justification letter (mentioning why you need the weapon).

  • Proof of profession/income (e.g., salary slip, tax return).

  • Domicile certificate (sometimes required).

  • Arms dealer’s invoice (once license is approved).

4. Application Process

  1. Apply at the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Office in your district.

  2. Submit all required documents.

  3. Undergo a background check via police verification.

  4. If cleared, the application is forwarded to the Punjab Home Department.

  5. Approval is granted by the DC or Home Secretary, depending on the type of license.

  6. Upon approval, you’ll receive a challan for fee payment.

5. Fee Payment

  • Pay the licensing fee at the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP).

  • Fees vary depending on weapon type and license duration (new or renewal).

6. License Issuance

  • After fee submission, your license is printed and issued.

  • You are then allowed to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer using the approved license.

  • Weapon details must be entered on the license.

7. Biometric Registration (Mandatory)

  • You must register biometrics and weapon details via the NADRA Arms License Management System.

9. Carrying the Weapon

  • Must always carry your license when carrying the weapon.

  • Concealed carry may require separate permissions.

  • No license holder may brandish or misuse the weapon.

🚫 Important Notes

  • Illegal possession leads to severe penalties under Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965.

  • Prohibited bore licenses require federal-level clearance and are extremely restricted.

  • Use only government-approved dealers and follow all verification steps.