If you want to acquire, import, possess or use certain chemicals, poisons or explosives precursors, you must have a valid explosives precursors and poisons (EPP) licence issued by the Home Office.
This document gives guidance to the public on:
which substances you need an EPP licence for
offences and penalties for not having a licence
how to apply for an EPP licence
how to renew, replace or amend a licence
licence costs
who needs a certificate of good conduct
Updates to this page
Published 5 August 2014 Last updated 13 February 2025 +show all updates
Section 'Application process' updated.
Updated to reflect changes made by the Controls of Explosives Precursors and Poisons Regulations 2023, which come into force on 1 October 2023.
Updated 'renew a licence' section of guidance.
Added content under 'Section 1 - regulated substances'.
Amended part 5 to reflect the fact that Home Office EPP licences are no longer valid in NI following Brexit and to advise new procedure.
Added content under 'Application process' section to clarify refusals processes.
Updated guidance following a forthcoming change in legislation.
