Firearms medicals are important. If you are applying for or renewing a firearm or shotgun certificate in the UK, you may be asked to provide medical information as part of your application. One area that often causes questions is eyesight. Applicants frequently want to know whether there is a specific visual acuity requirement, whether glasses are permitted, or whether an eyesight problem will prevent them from obtaining a firearms certificate.
The answer is slightly different from the eyesight requirements that apply to professional driving licences. There is not a simple, universal Snellen-chart threshold for firearms licensing equivalent to the DVLA’s Group 2 driving standard. Instead, eyesight is considered as part of the wider assessment of whether an individual is medically suitable to possess a firearm safely.
Is there a specific eyesight requirement for a firearms certificate?
The Home Office’s statutory guidance explains that medical information is required for every application for the grant or renewal of a firearm or shotgun certificate. The purpose of the medical assessment is to identify relevant medical conditions that could affect an individual’s ability to possess a firearm safely. (GOV.UK)
This means that having glasses, contact lenses or a particular eyesight prescription does not automatically mean that an application will be unsuccessful. The important consideration is whether a person’s overall health and vision could affect their safe possession of a firearm.
This is different from applying for an HGV or other Group 2 driving licence, where DVLA publishes specific eyesight standards. Firearms licensing should therefore not be approached as simply needing to achieve a particular Snellen score.
Certain eye conditions may nevertheless be relevant. For example, significant visual impairment, visual field problems or other conditions affecting a person’s ability to see safely may need to be considered in the medical information supplied to the police.
If you have concerns about your eyesight, it can be useful to have your vision assessed by an optometrist before your medical appointment. This can establish your current visual acuity and identify whether you need updated glasses or contact lenses.
What happens during a firearms medical?
The firearms medical process is primarily about reviewing your medical history rather than simply conducting a standard eyesight test.
The Home Office states that applicants should obtain information about their medical suitability from their GP or another suitably qualified doctor registered with the General Medical Council. The prescribed medical proforma is used to provide relevant medical information to the police firearms licensing department. (GOV.UK)
The doctor may need information about previous and current medical conditions, medication and other factors that could be relevant to safe possession of a firearm. The assessment is based on the available medical history rather than one isolated measurement.
It is also important to understand who makes the final decision. The doctor provides medical information to assist the police; they do not grant or refuse the firearm certificate themselves. The Home Office guidance specifically states that responsibility for deciding whether someone is suitable to be granted a certificate rests with the police. (GOV.UK)
For applicants, this means that having a medical condition does not necessarily result in an automatic refusal. The relevance of the condition, its severity, stability and potential impact on safe firearm possession can all be considered.
Can poor eyesight stop you getting a firearms certificate?
Poor eyesight does not automatically mean that you cannot obtain a firearm or shotgun certificate. There is no general rule stating that everyone must achieve one particular visual acuity score.
However, significant visual problems may be relevant if they could affect safe possession or use of a firearm. If your eyesight has deteriorated, you have developed a significant eye condition, or you have concerns about your ability to see clearly, it is sensible to discuss this with an appropriate healthcare professional.
It is also worth remembering that firearms licensing requirements can change. The Home Office updated its firearms licensing guidance in 2025, including changes relating to medical information and the application process. (GOV.UK)
If you need a firearms medical report, choosing a doctor familiar with firearms licensing medicals can help ensure that the relevant information is considered and documented appropriately.
At SimplyMedicals, we provide medical assessments and reports for licensing purposes. If you are unsure what documentation you need for your application, check the requirements of your local police firearms licensing department before booking your appointment.
Ultimately, It all starts with your firearms medical .
Your feedback is most welcome!
Feel free to email us at hello@simplymedicals.co.uk so we can help you.
I hope you will enjoy our videos and articles.
Please like our facebook page and subscribe to our youtube channel. Therefore, If you need to book a firearms medical please click here.
