Pakistan’s arms licensing system has shifted from manual permits to computerized NADRA‑linked cards. The most newsworthy development in 2026 is that All Pakistan arms licenses are now being issued from Quetta, making Balochistan the focal point for nationwide coverage. This guide explains the background, categories (PB/NPB), federal and provincial openings/closures, fees, requirements, and practical tips for applicants.
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Background: Federal and Provincial Licensing
- Federal (Ministry of Interior): Historically issued both PB and All Pakistan licenses. Currently, new federal licenses are suspended, with only renewals allowed through NADRA counters.
- Punjab: Computerization of manual licenses began in 2016, with deadlines extended multiple times. All unregistered manual licenses were canceled on September 1, 2022. In February 2025, Punjab reopened revalidation for missed cases.
- Sindh: A ban on new licenses was lifted on August 1, 2024, allowing deputy commissioners to issue licenses under quotas defined in Sindh Arms Rules 2018.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Licenses are issued under the Right to Public Services framework, with digital processing and verification. The Dastak app now enables online applications and renewals.
- Balochistan (Quetta): Computerized issuance launched in August–October 2024, with Quetta as the first phase. Manual licenses were given a two‑month conversion window before cancellation.
Categories of Licenses
- NPB (Non‑Prohibited Bore): Pistols, revolvers, shotguns, bolt‑action rifles. Most common civilian category, available provincially and nationwide.
- PB (Prohibited Bore): Automatic rifles, SMGs, machine guns. Rarely issued, requiring Ministry of Interior approval. Reserved for law enforcement or extraordinary security needs.
Current Issuance in Quetta (2026)
- Issuing Authority: DC Office, Quetta.
- Category: Computerized All Pakistan NPB licenses.
- Manual licenses: Cancelled; conversion mandatory.
- Validity: 5 years, renewable.
- Significance: Quetta is currently the only center issuing All Pakistan licenses, making it the national hub.
Fee Structure
- Quetta (DC Office):
- Provincial license: Rs 13,000
- All Pakistan license: Rs 16,000
- Validity: 5 years
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
- Provincial license: Rs 3,910
- All Pakistan license: Rs 9,410
- Government employees: Rs 315
- Stamp paper: Rs 300; Rs 2,000 for heavy weapons (.222/.223)
- Punjab: Fees depend on PALMS/NADRA system; renewals carry fines if delayed.
- PB licenses (Federal): Higher fees, subject to Ministry of Interior approval.
Requirements and Documents
- CNIC
- Photographs
- Proof of income (salary slip/tax return)
- Medical certificate
- Police verification report
- Domicile (province‑specific)
- Government service documents (if applicable)
Application Process
- Prepare documents.
- Visit issuing office (Quetta DC Office for All Pakistan NPB).
- Biometric capture and NADRA data entry.
- Police verification and background check.
- Pay fees at designated counter/bank.
- Receive computerized license card.
- Renew every 5 years.
PB applications must go through the Ministry of Interior with detailed justification and clearance.
Practical Tips
- Confirm category: Decide between provincial or All Pakistan coverage.
- Check domicile rules: Balochistan requires domicile for issuance.
- Convert manual licenses: Do so before deadlines to avoid cancellation.
- Renewal penalties: Punjab allows a 3‑month grace period; fines apply after.
- Verify fees: They differ by province and category.
- Maintain compliance: Renew on time; computerized systems enforce compliance strictly.
Timeline of Openings and Closures
- Federal: New licenses suspended; renewals ongoing via NADRA.
- Punjab: Computerization launched 2016; deadline Dec 2020; cancellation Sept 2022; reopened Feb 2025.
- Sindh: Ban lifted Aug 1, 2024.
- KP: Digital issuance ongoing via Dastak app.
- Balochistan: Digital system inaugurated Aug 2024; Quetta issuance Oct 2024; hub status in 2026.
Comparison Table
| Category | Weapons Covered | Issuing Authority | Availability | Fee (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NPB | Pistols, revolvers, shotguns, bolt‑action rifles | Provincial DC Offices, Quetta (All Pakistan) | Widely available | Rs 3,910–16,000 | Computerized licenses via NADRA |
| PB | Automatic rifles, SMGs, machine guns | Ministry of Interior (Federal) | Highly restricted | Higher, varies | Requires federal approval, rare for civilians |
Bottom Line
In 2026, Quetta has emerged as the national hub for All Pakistan arms licenses, while provinces continue issuing NPB licenses locally. PB licenses remain under federal control and are rarely granted. Applicants should prepare documents carefully, confirm domicile requirements, and comply with renewal rules to avoid cancellation.
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