SAPS lists "a full motivation with supporting documents" as part of every new licence application. It is the one document in your file that only you can write, and a weak one has been the stated reason for refusals.
What the motivation is for
Each licence section has its own test. For self-defence, the Act says the licence goes to someone who needs a firearm for self-defence and cannot reasonably meet that need any other way (section 13(2)). For a restricted firearm, you must show that a section 13 firearm would not protect you well enough (section 14(4)). Hunting, sport and collection licences each ask for different proof.
Your motivation is where you meet that test. Trackers describe the national Licensing Section as the stage where an evaluator weighs your need, motivation, competency and storage. The evaluator is asking one question: does what this person says match the section they applied under?
What to cover for each licence section
This table covers the sections our sources describe. For sections 18, 19 and 20, ask your accredited body or your Designated Firearms Officer (DFO).
| Section | What you need to show | Evidence to attach |
|---|---|---|
| 13: self-defence | That you need a firearm for self-defence, and why you cannot reasonably meet that need another way | Documents that back up each part of your need |
| 14: restricted self-defence | Everything for section 13, plus why a section 13 firearm would not give you enough protection | Documents that back up why a handgun or shotgun is not enough |
| 15: occasional hunting | That you hunt, what you hunt and where | The species, proof of hunting, where you will hunt, a declaration from the farm owner |
| 15: occasional sport | That you take part in a shooting discipline | Proof of participation, your discipline, club or association membership, your results |
| 16: dedicated | That you are a registered dedicated member, and how this firearm fits your hunting or sport | Your association chairperson's sworn statement; associations report that a firearm and calibre endorsement is now expected |
| 16A: professional hunting | That you hunt professionally | A sworn statement from an accredited professional hunting association's chairperson |
| 17: private collection | That the firearm belongs in your collection | Your collectors association chairperson's sworn statement |
The 2022 judgment mentioned above also quotes "the firearm does not fit into your collection" as a reason. For a collection licence, explain how this firearm fits.
A structure that works
There is no official template. This order keeps the evaluator's question in front of you from start to finish.
Who and what
Your name, the licence section you are applying under, and the firearm: type, make and calibre.
Your need
Your actual circumstances, in specific terms. Places, routines, events, activities.
Why this section
Show the test for your section is met. For self-defence, why other measures are not enough.
Why this firearm
How this firearm suits that need, and fits the section's limits.
Your evidence
List every attachment and say which point it supports.
Competency and storage
Your competency for this firearm type, and your SABS-standard safe.
Mistakes to avoid
| Mistake | Why it hurts |
|---|---|
| A copied template | It describes someone else's need, not yours. The law asks about your circumstances |
| A need that doesn't match the section | A self-defence reason on a hunting application, or a hunting reason on a self-defence one, fails the test for the section you chose |
| A vague need | "For safety" says nothing an evaluator can weigh. Say what, where and why |
| Claims with nothing attached | SAPS asks for supporting documents with the motivation, so every claim should point to one |
| Skipping the "other ways" question | For section 13 you must show you cannot reasonably meet the need another way; for section 14, why section 13 is not enough |
Keep a copy for later
Keep your motivation and every attachment. You may need them again.
- If you are refused, you have 90 days from the decision to appeal on a SAPS 530, with written submissions. See refusals and appeals.
- When you renew, you must show you still meet the licence requirements (section 24(3)). See renewals.
Questions about the motivation
Is there an official motivation form?
Our sources show no official template. SAPS asks for a full motivation with supporting documents, attached to your SAPS 271.
Do I need a motivation for a renewal?
SAPS's renewal list is your ID, the original licence, two recent photos, your competency certificate and the SAPS 518(a). The law says renewal is refused unless you show you still comply with the licence requirements, so keep your evidence current.
How long should it be?
No length is set. Long enough to meet the test for your section with specifics and evidence, and no longer.
Can I add more information after I hand it in?
The Central Firearms Register (CFR) may ask for more information while it evaluates your file; answer through your DFO straight away. On appeal, new facts are only admitted with a reasonable explanation for leaving them out.
Will you write it for me?
No. We don't sell letters or templates. It should be your own account of your own need.
