PAL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PAL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following does NOT meet the safe storage standard for a non-restricted firearm? → Stored in a locked room with the key left on a nearby shelf
2. Which of the following individuals would be ineligible to obtain a PAL? → A person subject to a current firearms prohibition order
3. Which document must accompany a restricted firearm whenever it is transported between locations? → An authorization to transport (ATT)
4. What additional authorization is required for a Restricted PAL holder to transport a restricted firearm to a shooting range? → An Authorization to Transport (ATT)
5. A PAL holder transports a non-restricted rifle in an unlocked soft case in their vehicle. What legal risk does this create? → Potential charges under careless storage and transport regulations
6. Under PAL regulations, what is the compliance requirement when transporting a non-restricted firearm to an approved shooting range? → The firearm must be unloaded and in a locked or fastened case
7. Which of the following storage requirements applies to a non-restricted firearm under PAL regulations? → Must be unloaded and stored with a trigger lock or in a locked container
8. What does the 'O' in PROVE stand for? → Observe the chamber
9. Under Canadian firearms law, what is the maximum period a non-restricted firearm can be loaned to another PAL holder without triggering a transfer? → There is no explicit time limit for temporary loans between PAL holders
10. Which of the following best describes a 'safe muzzle direction' under Canadian PAL rules? → A direction where an unintended discharge would cause the least harm
11. Which of the following actions is NOT authorized by a non-restricted PAL alone, without additional permits? → Transporting a restricted firearm to a shooting range
12. What is required to renew a PAL? → Submission of a renewal application
13. What is the maximum legal magazine capacity for a centre-fire semi-automatic long gun in Canada? → 5 rounds
14. What does the 'C' in the ACTS rules stand for? → Control the muzzle direction at all times
15. What is risk mitigation? → Taking actions to reduce the probability or impact of identified risks
16. What is the SOAP format used for in documentation? → Organizing clinical notes into Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan sections
17. Which scenario represents a violation of the 'Control the muzzle direction' rule? → Sweeping other hunters with the muzzle while turning to track game
18. When should a scatter plot be used? → To examine the relationship between two continuous variables
19. If a PAL expires, what is the immediate legal consequence for the licence holder? → They are prohibited from acquiring or possessing firearms until the licence is renewed
20. How does the barrel length of a long gun affect its legal classification? → It determines whether the firearm is non-restricted or prohibited
21. A person convicted of an indictable offence in Canada is subject to what firearms prohibition under the Criminal Code? → A minimum 10-year prohibition from possessing any firearm
22. What is the minimum age to hold a PAL for non-restricted firearms in Canada? → 18
23. Which statement about the ACTS and PROVE rules is accurate? → ACTS and PROVE work together: ACTS is the mindset, PROVE is the verification procedure
24. A licensed firearms dealer must keep records of each firearm transaction for a minimum of: → 10 years
25. Which federal form must be completed to apply for a new PAL in Canada? → CAFC 921
26. What type of lubricant should be used on firearm components during maintenance? → A firearm-specific oil or lubricant formulated for use with guns
27. A PAL applicant discloses a history of suicidal ideation from 7 years ago with no recurrence. How is this typically handled? → Chief firearms officer reviews the circumstances and may seek medical information
28. What is the processing time for a PAL application? → 45 days
29. What is the purpose of the background check during the PAL application process? → Verify no criminal or mental health issues
30. What are the potential consequences of practicing outside ones scope of practice? → Disciplinary action, legal liability, and potential harm to clients