Shooting sports; application for an exemption from the age requirement for children and young people

If your child is under the age of 12 and has a talent for shooting, you must apply to the relevant authority for a special permit if they wish to shoot at shooting ranges.

The minimum age for shooting at shooting ranges is generally 12 years. In detail, the following applies

• Children aged 12 and over may shoot with compressed air weapons, spring-loaded weapons and weapons whose projectiles are propelled by cold propellant gases;
• young people between the ages of 14 and 18 may also shoot with firearms up to a caliber of 5.6 mm lfB (.22.l.r.) for rimfire ammunition with a maximum muzzle energy of 200 joules (J), as well as with single-shot long guns with smooth barrels with a maximum caliber of 12 gauge.

Children and young people may only shoot if a written or electronic declaration of consent has been provided by their legal guardians and suitable supervisors for children and young people are present.

If a shooting club considers children under the age of 12 to be sufficiently talented to practice shooting as a competitive sport, the competent authority may allow these children to shoot on request. An exemption permit must be applied for for these children. The exception must be applied for by the parents or legal guardians together with the respective club. It is recommended that you obtain information about the relevant regulations from the competent authority.

For children under the minimum age, proof must be provided that they are mentally and physically fit. This must always be confirmed by a doctor. For exceptions, it is recommended that you contact the relevant authority for information on the respective regulations.

Whether children under the minimum age are suitable for competitive sport in a shooting discipline may not be tested with the relevant firearms, but must be tested in another way.

The exception to the minimum age can also be requested for an event, for example for a "taster day" to recruit young talent in a shooting club. This exemption is only granted for the event and does not apply to regular training for children and young people.

• The following documents are required:
  • Medical certificate (e.g. from the family doctor, specialist in pediatrics and adolescent medicine) confirming the child's physical and mental aptitude for competitive shooting sports
  • Confirmation from the club about the child's shooting talent

• Mental and physical aptitude of the child to handle weapons
• Special shooting talent of the child

You must apply for the special permit from the relevant firearms authority. Submit the application together with the required documents.

The weapons authority will issue the special permit if the requirements are met.

The costs are based on the Costs Act and the Schedule of Costs and range between EUR 5.00 and EUR 100.00.