How to get a ukara licence
If you live in the UK and are interested in airsoft, getting a UKARA licence is a crucial step in being able to participate in the sport. The United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association, or UKARA, is a site membership-based organisation that is recognised as a leader in the UK airsoft industry. A UKARA licence is a proof of your eligibility to purchase realistic imitation firearms (RIFs). Without a UKARA licence, you will not be able to buy, sell, or even touch airsoft guns that are not brightly coloured.
So, how do you go about obtaining a UKARA licence? The process may seem complicated at first, but it can be broken down into a few simple steps. First and foremost, you must be at least 18 years old. The minimum age requirement ensures that only responsible adults are able to participate in airsoft activities. Once you have reached the legal age, you can move on to the next step in the process.
To get a UKARA licence, you need to first find a UKARA registered game site. These are airsoft venues that are registered with UKARA and maintain proper safety standards. Attending a game day at a UKARA registered site is the best way to get involved in the airsoft community and start your journey towards obtaining a UKARA licence. During the game day, you will need to participate in at least three approved games over a period of not less than two months. This is to ensure that you are committed to the sport and have gained proper experience before obtaining a UKARA licence.
Once you have completed the required game days, you must then register your attendance with the game site and provide them with proof of your participation. This can be done by obtaining a completed UKARA player registration form signed by a game organiser or site representative. The form will then be submitted to UKARA for processing. It is important to keep in mind that UKARA has specific rules and guidelines regarding the registration process, so make sure to familiarise yourself with their requirements.
What is a UKARA Licence?
A UKARA Licence is a certification that allows individuals in the United Kingdom to purchase and own realistic imitation firearms (RIFs) known as airsoft guns. UKARA stands for United Kingdom Airsoft Retailers Association.
The UKARA Licence was established as a response to the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006, which made it illegal to sell or import RIFs without a valid defence. The defence can be attained by becoming a registered member of the UKARA database.
To obtain a UKARA Licence, individuals must meet certain criteria. They must be at least 18 years old and reside in the United Kingdom for at least 3 months. They must also have played at least 3 games of airsoft at a registered UKARA game site in a period of no less than 56 days gap between each game.
Once these criteria are met, individuals can apply for a UKARA Licence by completing the necessary documentation provided by their chosen registered game site. The site will then submit the application to the UKARA database for processing.
A UKARA Licence is valid for one year from the date of issue. After this period, individuals are required to renew their licence to continue purchasing RIFs. It is important to note that an individual’s UKARA Licence does not grant them permission to carry or use airsoft guns in public spaces. It is strictly for the purposes of purchasing and owning RIFs within the guidelines set by the UKARA.
| Benefits of having a UKARA Licence |
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Guide to Getting a UKARA Licence
A UKARA licence is a legal requirement for anyone who wants to purchase or own an realistic imitation firearm (RIF) in the UK. This licence is issued by UKARA (the UK Airsoft Retailers Association) and proves that an individual is a regular airsoft player.
1. Find a UKARA Registered Game Site
- To obtain a UKARA licence, you must first become a member of a UKARA registered game site. Check the UKARA website to find your nearest registered site.
- Start by searching for potential airsoft sites in your local area and make sure they are UKARA registered.
- You will need to attend a minimum of three games at the same registered site within a period of no less than two months. When you attend these games, make sure to book in as a UKARA member.
2. Play Airsoft Regularly
- Once you have found a registered game site, participate in regular airsoft games held at that site. At least one of these games must be in a period of over one month from your first games played there.
3. Fill Out UKARA Membership Forms
- After you have played the required number of games, request a UKARA Membership form from your game site. Complete the form accurately and honestly.
- The form will ask for personal details, including your full name, date of birth, address, and contact information. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
- It is important to note that you must be over 18 years old to apply for a UKARA licence. Ensure you meet this requirement before proceeding with the application.
4. Obtain Referee Details
- A UKARA membership form requires referee details. These referees must confirm that you have participated in the required number of games at the registered UKARA game site.
- You will need two referees who have known you individually for at least three consecutive months and who are also airsoft players themselves. They should be able to vouch for your regular participation in airsoft games.
5. Pay the Membership Fee
Upon completion of the UKARA membership form, submit it back to your registered game site. You will be requested to pay a membership fee, the amount of which may vary depending on each individual site’s policy.
After your application and membership fee have been processed, UKARA will issue you a unique player number, which acts as your UKARA licence. This number can be used to purchase RIFs from UKARA-approved retailers.
Note: It is crucial to understand that a UKARA licence is not a license to carry a RIF in public places. Always follow relevant laws and regulations when transporting and using airsoft guns.
Benefits of Having a UKARA Licence
Obtaining a UKARA licence can provide airsoft enthusiasts with various benefits. Here are some of the advantages of having a UKARA licence:
1. Legality and Compliance
Having a UKARA licence ensures that you are legally allowed to purchase and possess realistic imitation firearms (RIFs). It allows you to participate in airsoft activities without any legal complications. By complying with the law, you prevent any potential legal issues that may arise from owning or using RIFs without a valid licence.
2. Access to Exclusive Events
With a UKARA licence, you have access to exclusive airsoft events that are only open to licensed players. These events often feature advanced gameplay scenarios, specialized fields, and a higher level of competition. Participating in these exclusive events can enhance your airsoft experience by immersing you in a highly skilled and passionate community of players.
3. Wide Range of Weapons
As a UKARA licence holder, you have access to a wider range of airsoft weapons. Licensed retailers often carry a larger and more diverse selection of realistic imitation firearms, allowing you to choose from various brands, models, and styles. This diversity enables you to personalize your gear, enhance gameplay effectiveness, and make your airsoft experience more enjoyable.
4. Safety Awareness and Training
Applying for a UKARA licence involves completing essential safety training and demonstrating knowledge of airsoft rules and procedures. By going through this process, you develop a higher level of safety awareness and become a more responsible player. This ensures that you follow proper safety precautions during airsoft activities, reducing the risk of injuries and maintaining an enjoyable experience for yourself and others.
| Benefits | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Legality and Compliance | Allows legal purchase and possession of RIFs, preventing legal issues. |
| Access to Exclusive Events | Participation in special airsoft events for licensed players only. |
| Wide Range of Weapons | Availability of diverse airsoft weapon options from licensed retailers. |
| Safety Awareness and Training | Enhanced safety awareness and responsible gameplay through training. |
Overall, having a UKARA licence offers airsoft enthusiasts numerous advantages, such as legal compliance, access to exclusive events, a wider range of weapons to choose from, and a higher level of safety awareness. This licence helps create a vibrant airsoft community that is committed to responsible and enjoyable gameplay.
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