Policing.uk

Are tasers legal in the UK?

No. Tasers are classified as prohibited firearms under section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968. Possession without authority carries a maximum of 10 years' imprisonment and a minimum of 5 years for adults. Only specially trained police officers may carry them. There is no self-defence exception.

The law

  • Firearms Act 1968, Section 5(1)(b). Classifies tasers and stun guns as prohibited weapons
  • Sentencing Act 2020, Section 311. Minimum 5 years' custody for prohibited firearm possession (adults)

The penalty

Offence
Possession of prohibited firearm (taser)
Maximum
10 years' imprisonment
Typical range
5 to 7 years' custody

What to do

  1. Do not purchase, import, or possess a taser
  2. If you find a taser, do not handle it. Call 101 or take it to a police station
  3. If arrested for taser possession, seek legal advice immediately
  4. A solicitor can advise on whether exceptional circumstances apply to avoid the minimum sentence

In detail

Tasers are classified as prohibited firearms under section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968. It is a criminal offence to possess, purchase, acquire, manufacture, sell or transfer a taser without the authority of the Secretary of State for Defence.

The maximum sentence for possession of a prohibited firearm is 10 years' imprisonment. For adults over 18, the offence carries a minimum sentence of 5 years' custody under section 311 of the Sentencing Act 2020, unless the court finds exceptional circumstances.

Only authorised police officers may carry tasers. Officers must complete specialist training and be approved by their chief constable. The College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice on use of force governs when officers may deploy a taser: the threat must justify the use of an electrical discharge device within the National Decision Model.

Purchasing tasers from overseas websites and importing them is a separate offence under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979. Border Force regularly seizes tasers at UK ports and postal hubs.

There is no self-defence exception. Unlike some US states, UK law does not permit civilians to carry electrical weapons for personal protection. Carrying a taser is treated the same as carrying a prohibited firearm.

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Last updated 16 October 2026