Special Theatrical Rifle / Shotgun Permit

You need a Special Theatrical Rifle / Shotgun Permit to use rifles or shotguns in TV, movie, stage, theater or similar productions. Professional photographers also need this permit for photo sessions.

The permit is valid for up to one year.

• Citizenship requirements

  • You must be a U.S. citizen.
  • If born in the U.S., provide a birth certificate.
  • If no birth certificate, provide another proof of birth date (for example, military record, U.S. Passport or baptismal certificate).
  • If born outside the U.S., provide naturalization papers, a valid U.S. Passport or other proof of citizenship.

• Age requirement

  • You must be over 21 years old.

• Proof of identification and address

  • Provide proof of identification (birth certificate or U.S. Passport).
  • Provide proof of address (gas, electric or telephone bill).

• Photos

  • Submit four recent color passport-type photos.

• Notarized statement

  • Submit a notarized statement from an officer or owner of your business.

  • The statement must be on business letterhead and include:

    • How the weapons will be used.
    • The type and number of weapons.
    • The length of time the weapons will be used.
    • Confirmation that you are responsible for the registration and security of the weapons.

• Permit fees

  • Application fee: $140
  • Fingerprint fee: $88.25

• Accepted payment methods

  • Mastercard
  • Visa
  • Discover
  • American Express
  • Postal money order (payable to the New York City Police Department)

You cannot renew your permit. You must apply again for a new permit.

• Complete the application form:
  • Print clearly in blue or black ink or type the form.
• Submit your application:
  • Submit the completed form and required materials in person at the Rifle / Shotgun Section of the NYPD.
• Fingerprinting:
  • You will be fingerprinted when you submit your application.
• Permit issuance:
  • Permits are issued on the same day you submit your application.