FantasticSearch

1. If the procedure provided for in Article 16 is not used, the possession of a firearm during a journey through two or more Member States shall not be permitted unless the person concerned has obtained the authorisation of each of those Member States. Member States may grant such authorisation for one or more journeys for a maximum period of one year, subject to renewal. Such authorisations shall be entered on the European firearms pass, which the traveller shall produce whenever so required by the authorities of the Member States.

2. Notwithstanding paragraph 1, hunters and historical re-enactors, in respect of firearms classified in category C, and target shooters, in respect of firearms classified in category B or C and of firearms classified in category A for which an authorisation has been granted under Article 9(6) or for which the authorisation has been confirmed, renewed or prolonged under Article 10(5), may, without the prior authorisation referred to in Article 16(2), be in possession of one or more firearms during a journey through two or more Member States with a view to engaging in their activities, provided that:

(a) they are in possession of a European firearms pass listing such firearm or firearms; and (b) they are able to substantiate the reasons for their journey, in particular by producing an invitation for, or other proof of, their hunting, target shooting or historical re-enactment activities in the Member State of destination. Member States may not make acceptance of a European firearms pass conditional upon the payment of any fee or charge. However, the derogation referred to in the first subparagraph of this paragraph shall not apply to journeys to a Member State that, pursuant to Article 11(3), either prohibits the acquisition and possession of the firearm in question or makes it subject to authorisation. In that case, an express statement to that effect shall be entered on the European firearms pass. Member States may also refuse the application of this derogation in the case of firearms classified in category A for which an authorisation has been granted under Article 9(6) or for which the authorisation has been confirmed, renewed or prolonged under Article 10(5). In the context of the report referred to in Article 24, the Commission, in consultation with the Member States, shall also consider the effects of applying the third subparagraph, particularly as regards its impact on public order and public security.

3. Under agreements for the mutual recognition of national documents, two or more Member States may provide for arrangements that are more flexible than those prescribed in this Article for movement with firearms within their territories.