CANADIAN FIREARMS LICENCES · EXPLAINED
PAL paper application: Form 5592 explained
Understand when to use RCMP Form 5592, which details to prepare, handwritten signatures, attachments and the final mailing check.
Explore the guide ↓
BY MAIL / FORM 5592
A complete package is more than a signed form.
Read the current instructions beside each section, then check the photo, attachments, payment and signatures together.
- 01Current form
- 02Complete attachments
- 03Handwritten signature
01 / PAPER APPLICATION
Is Form 5592 the right form?
It is the adult application for a first PAL, a new licence after expiry, or different firearm privileges. A still-valid licence renewal uses a different process and Form 5614 if renewing on paper.
If you held a Minor’s Licence, PAL, POL or FAC before, the online first-time application definition does not fit your history. Check the correct route with the CFP.
02 / PAPER APPLICATION
Read the instructions beside the form
A form often looks familiar until a term is used more precisely than it is in ordinary conversation. “First-time,” “reference” and “conjugal partner” have specific meanings in the application. Read the accompanying instructions while answering, rather than treating them as an optional document after the form.
Check whether a question requests current information, previous information or details covering a stated period. If you need more space, follow the form’s instructions for additional sheets. The aim is an accurate and complete record, not squeezing an answer into the box.
A sensible preparation order
Settle the correct form and route first. Gather the requested identity and history information next. Arrange supporting documents and contacts before the final signature and mailing check.
If you prefill digitally, leave time to print and review the complete package. A typed name or digital signature is not the required handwritten signature for a paper application.
03 / PAPER APPLICATION
Prepare before you fill it in
Make a folder for course reports, your photo and any additional documents. Have your legal names, address history, identity details, contact information and requested personal-history information ready.
Use the application’s definitions when answering questions. If a question does not fit your circumstances, ask the CFP how to complete it. Do not guess or omit a required answer.
Check contact and photo requirements04 / PAPER APPLICATION
Signatures and attachments
- Complete all applicable sections and additional sheets.
- Print a digitally prefilled form and sign by hand in blue or black ink; e-signatures are not valid for the paper application.
- Sign within six months of mailing.
- Follow the reference, guarantor and photo-label instructions.
- Include the required training and situation-specific documents.
- Use the current fee and accepted payment method; do not send cash.
05 / PAPER APPLICATION
Your final mailing check
Read once for missing answers
Check dates, addresses, the requested privileges and contact details.
Read once for attachments
Make sure reports, photo and any extra documents are present.
Keep a copy securely
Retain what you sent, without sharing personal records in public.
Mail to the address printed on the current form
Form 5592 currently directs applications to RCMP, PO Box 1200, Miramichi NB E1N 5Z3. Check the form you are using.
06 / PAPER APPLICATION
After mailing
Mail delivery and application processing are separate. Keep any delivery receipt and follow the CFP’s status instructions. Contact the CFP at 1-800-731-4000 if you need help with an application question.
An incomplete application can delay review. The minimum waiting period is not a promise of approval or a licence arrival date.
Understand review timing07 / PAPER APPLICATION
Think of it as one complete package
MAILING EXAMPLE
The signed form is ready, but the photo label is missing
An applicant reviews the printed form and notices they have the photo but have not completed its guarantor requirements. They finish the photo and contact steps, check all attachments and keep a secure copy before mailing.
08 / PAPER APPLICATION
Small details that prevent avoidable confusion
Should I mail my original identity documents?
Follow the current form’s instructions for identity information. Form 5592 instructs applicants not to send original documents or photocopies of ID with that paper application; provide the requested information.
Does a delivery receipt mean the application is approved?
No. Delivery, intake, completeness checks and licence review are different milestones. A delivery record can help you know that mail arrived; it is not a licence decision.
Should I submit online too, just in case?
Ask the CFP before duplicating an application. Choose the correct route and follow its status or correction instructions rather than assuming duplicate submissions make review faster.
WHEN YOU ARE READY TO PREPARE
Learn the material. Practise with questions.
A structured PAL & RPAL course, practice tests and clear explanations—in one app.
YOUR NEXT STEPS
Get ready for your firearms licence.
From choosing a course to preparing your application.
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