According to Yaakov Amit, the head of the Public Security Ministry’s Firearms Licensing Department, “only those who have a license can bear arms ... .” He said gun licenses are given out only to those who work in security or law enforcement, or those who live in settlements, or are former IDF officers above a certain rank.

Anyone who fits the requirements, is over 21 years old and an Israeli resident for more than three years, must go through a mental and physical health exam, then pass shooting exams and courses at a licensed gun range, as well as background checks by the Public Security Ministry. They must prove that they have a safe at home to keep their weapon in.

Once they get a firearm at a gun store they are allowed to take it home with a one-time supply of 50 bullets, which they cannot renew.

The gun owner must retake his license exam and gun range test every three years.