Quick Answer
Yes, you can typically request coterminous renewal for your firearms certificate (FAC) and shotgun certificate (SGC) in the UK. This means aligning their expiry dates so they both become due for renewal at the same time. While it is generally permitted, the final decision rests with your local police force's firearms licensing department. You will need to contact them directly to explore this option and understand any pro-rata fee adjustments.
What is Coterminous Renewal?
Coterminous renewal is a practical arrangement designed to simplify the administration for certificate holders who possess both a firearms certificate (Section 1) and a shotgun certificate (Section 2). Instead of having two separate renewal dates to remember, the police can adjust the duration of one certificate to match the expiry date of the other. For example, if your shotgun certificate expires in two years and your firearms certificate in four, the police might issue a two-year renewal for your FAC, making them both expire at the same time.
Why Request Coterminous Renewal?
The primary benefit of coterminous renewal is convenience. Managing a single renewal process for both certificates significantly reduces administrative burden. You only need to remember one expiry date, submit one application form, and undergo one set of medical checks every five years, rather than potentially two separate processes at different times. This can be particularly helpful for busy shooters with multiple firearms. For more on the differences between these certificates, see our guide on Shotgun Certificate vs Firearms Certificate: Key Differences Every UK Shooter Should Know.
How to Request Coterminous Renewal
To request coterminous renewal, you should:
- Contact your local police force's firearms licensing department. This is best done well in advance of the earlier of your two certificate expiry dates.
- State your intention to have your FAC and SGC renewed coterminously.
- Follow their specific instructions. Each force may have slightly different procedures. They will advise you on which certificate's expiry date will be adjusted and what forms are required.
- Be prepared for pro-rata fees. If one certificate's duration is shortened to align with the other, you will typically pay a pro-rata fee for the shortened period. This ensures you only pay for the duration you hold the certificate. When it comes to the full five-year renewal, standard fees will apply. For general renewal information, refer to Firearms Certificate Renewal in 2026: Timelines, Fees, and How to Avoid Delays.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While coterminous renewal offers clear advantages, there are a few points to consider:
- Police Discretion: It is not an absolute right; police forces retain discretion. While common, they can decline the request if they deem it impractical or unsuitable for specific reasons.
- Initial Cost: You might pay an initial pro-rata fee to shorten one certificate's term, effectively bringing its next full renewal forward. This means paying for a renewal sooner than you might have anticipated for that specific certificate. However, over the long term, it simplifies costs.
- Medical Checks: Regardless of coterminous renewal, you will still undergo comprehensive medical checks as part of the renewal process for both certificates. This is a standard requirement to ensure ongoing suitability. Our article on What Is the Firearms Medical Marker in England and How Does It Affect Your Certificate Application? provides more detail on this.
What if my certificates have significantly different expiry dates?
If your certificates have very different expiry dates (e.g., one expires next year and the other in four years), the police will usually align the longer certificate with the shorter one. This means the longer certificate will be renewed for a shorter, pro-rata period, incurring a proportionate fee, to bring both into alignment. From then on, they will renew together every five years.
Practical Bottom Line
Coterminous renewal is a highly recommended option for UK shooters holding both a firearms certificate and a shotgun certificate, offering significant simplification of the renewal process. Always contact your local police firearms licensing department well in advance of your certificate's expiry to discuss your options and clarify their specific requirements and any associated fees. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and compliant renewal.