How long does it take to process your application?
A processing time of up to three months is not unusual. We will endeavor to process your request more quickly. During this period, we ask you to refrain from making inquiries. As soon as processing is complete, we will return your documents to you by post.
What is an NWR ID and how can I request it?
The NWR ID is a unique technical identification number (ID) of the National Firearms Register (NWR). It is assigned uniquely for the technical description of data stored in the NWR, including data on persons, permits or permit documents and weapons/weapon parts (essential parts). The NWR ID ensures the unique identification and assignment of data in the NWR.
NWR IDs are primarily required if you purchase a weapon requiring a permit from a firearms dealer or transfer it to a dealer or if you have a weapon repaired by a dealer.
The NWR ID can be requested informally at the following email address: recht.steinfurt [at] polizei.nrw.de (recht[dot]steinfurt[at]polizei[dot]nrw[dot]de)
What regulations apply to the storage of keys to gun safes?
In its ruling of 30.08.2023 (Ref. 20 A 2384/20), the NRW Higher Administrative Court specified the requirements for the secure storage of keys for storage containers for weapons and/or ammunition.
You can find the questions and answers on this topic in an FAQ catalog Requirements for gun cabinets - here for download.
My family member is deceased and was a gun owner. What should I do with the weapons and/or the gun cabinet?
Please contact one of our employees from the Weapons Law team. We will be happy to provide you with personal advice.
I have bought a new gun cabinet. What do I have to do?
You should always provide us with proof of the new gun cabinet. Please use the "Storage" form and enclose proof of purchase and additional photographs showing in particular the relevant certification (type plate) and locking mechanism.
I have lost my gun ownership card and/or small firearms license. What do I have to do?
The loss of your firearms document must be reported immediately. Please use the form "Notification of the loss of weapons, ammunition or permit certificates" and submit it to us.
If you tick the appropriate box, we will issue you with a replacement document promptly.
I am a hunter and have purchased a new weapon. What do I need to do?
Simply submit your application for "Notification of the acquisition or transfer of weapons, weapon parts and the replacement of weapon parts" to us together with your WBK. Please note the 14-day notification period from the acquisition of your weapon. You are welcome to send the documents by post.
I am a hunter and would like to purchase a handgun. What do I need to consider?
As a hunter, you need a prior purchase authorization from your firearms authority. To do this, submit the form "Application for the issue of a WBK for sport shooters, acquisition authorization for hunters for handguns" together with your WBK and state the type and calibre of handgun you would like to purchase. Optionally, you can already apply for the ammunition purchase authorization at this point.
Once you have acquired the handgun, it is essential that you notify us within 14 days and present your WBK.
How is my personal data processed by the Steinfurt district police authority?
If you contact the Steinfurt district police authority in matters relating to weapons law (e.g. applying for a weapons possession card or a weapons license), it will process your personal data to the extent necessary. For information in accordance with Art. 13, 14 EU General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 (EU GDPR 2016/679) on the type, scope and purpose of the collection, processing and use of personal data in the context of your application or processing of firearms-related matters, please refer to the following privacy policy.
Detailed information on data processing can be found in a Personal data handout - here for download.
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