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

The minimum age for shooting at shooting ranges is generally 12 years. The following applies in particular

• Children from the age of 12 are allowed to 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 they have a written or electronic declaration of consent from their legal guardians and if 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 practise 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 to obtain information about the respective regulations from the responsible 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 corresponding firearms, but must be done in another way.

The exemption from 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.

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

• Medical certificate (e.g. from the family doctor, specialist in pediatrics and adolescent medicine) confirming the child's physical and mental suitability for competitive shooting sports
• Confirmation from the club of the child's shooting talent

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

• § Section 27 (3) and (4) of the Weapons Act (WaffG)
• § Section 3 of the Weapons Act (WaffG)

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

The firearms authority issues the exemption permit if the requirements are met.