How to Get a Paintball Marker Licence in Queensland

Obtaining a paintball marker licence in Queensland requires more than simply purchasing a marker from a retailer. Queensland Police Service treats paintball markers as firearms under the Weapons Act 1990, so you need to meet the same licensing standards as other Category A firearm owners. This guide breaks each step down so you know what to expect and how to avoid delays.

Why You Need a Licence

Queensland classifies paintball markers as Category A weapons under the Weapons Categories Regulation 1997. That triggers two mandatory requirements:

  • A Weapons Licence to legally possess the marker
  • A Permit to Acquire (PTA) for every marker you purchase

The PTA requirement catches new applicants off guard, so keep it on your checklist from the start.

Step 1: Establish Your Genuine Reason

QPS will not approve any licence without a genuine reason. For paintball owners, “sports or target shooting” through an approved club is the recognised pathway.

A Spec Ops Paintball membership satisfies this requirement. Your membership letter shows that you participate in regulated paintball activity, which is exactly what QPS expects to see in a Category A application.

Step 2: Complete Firearms Safety Training

Before you can apply, you must complete the Firearms Safety Course for Category A weapons within the previous twelve months.

The course covers:

  • Weapon safety fundamentals
  • Legal responsibilities
  • Secure storage standards
  • Transport requirements

Once you complete the course, you receive a Statement of Attainment. You must include this in your online application.

Step 3: Apply for Your Weapons Licence

QPS recommends lodging your application through their online weapons licensing portal. It reduces errors and prevents missing documents.

You must submit:

  • Your Spec Ops Paintball membership letter
  • Your Firearms Safety Course certificate
  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of residential address
  • A passport-quality photo

You also need to complete an identity check through Australia Post.

Queensland law enforces a minimum 28-day waiting period for all first-time applicants. Processing may take longer if QPS needs clarification or additional documents.

Step 4: Apply for Your Permit to Acquire (PTA)

Once your licence is approved, you’re not finished. You must lodge a PTA for each paintball marker you intend to buy. A PTA applies to one specific marker only.

You can submit the PTA through the same online portal. Processing times vary, so apply early if you plan to purchase soon.

Step 5: Meet Storage Requirements

Storage requirements are set under the Weapons Regulation 2016. You must store paintball markers securely so they can’t be accessed by anyone who shouldn’t have them.

You must:

  • Store your marker in a compliant safe or locked container
  • Store ammunition separately (Reballs® are not regulated ammunition, but QPS still expects responsible storage)
  • Transport your marker unloaded in a locked case

Most compliance issues come from incorrect storage. If you’re unsure, contact QPS Weapons Licensing for guidance before you buy your storage setup.

Ongoing Responsibilities

Once you receive your licence, you must:

  • Use paintball markers only at approved venues
  • Follow all venue safety requirements
  • Wear correct protective equipment
  • Notify QPS of any change in circumstances
  • Renew your licence before expiry

Failure to follow these rules can result in suspension or cancellation.

How Spec Ops Paintball Helps

As a Spec Ops Paintball member, you receive:

  • An official membership letter that satisfies the genuine reason requirement
  • Access to regulated facilities for paintball activity
  • Guidance on navigating the licensing process
  • Support with renewals or compliance questions

We work with these requirements regularly, so we can help you stay on track.

Useful Links

QPS Weapons Licensing
https://www.police.qld.gov.au/units/weapons-licensing

Individual Licence Types
https://www.police.qld.gov.au/weapon-licensing/individual-licence-types

Forms and Fees
https://www.police.qld.gov.au/weapon-licensing/weapons-fees-and-forms

Weapons Licensing Enquiries
(07) 3015 7777

Disclaimer: This guide summarises current Queensland legislation and QPS requirements. Always verify details directly with Queensland Police Service Weapons Licensing. This article is general information only and is not legal advice.

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