I think I'll join the NRA, get my FAC conditioned for target shooting and then sort out the NRA Competency Certificate training. Seems like the way forward.
Thanks to you all.
CH
Do also consider joining a local club, if there is one convenient for you. It brings a lot of benefits, and will be affiliated with the NRA.
The Competency Certificate / Shooter Certification Card has to be renewed annually, which requires proof that you have shot regularly. My club checks the shooting records and if you haven't been to a range day at least three times in the past year then the Chairman won't renew it, and you will have to start again.
It also separately itemises the different classes of firearm for which you are deemed competent.
Specifically:
Telescope sighted rifle
Iron sighted rifle
Long range pistol
Short range pistol
HME firearms/ammunition
Gallery rifle/carbine
Muzzle loaded rifle
Muzzle loaded pistol
Target shotgun
You need to decide which categories you want, and have the appropriate training. I think the NRA charges for this, and the issuing of the card. My club doesn't, it is absorbed in the membership fee etc.
Typically you should look to qualifying for telescopic sighted, iron sighted and gallery rifles as a minimum.
If you are granted the "Target Shooting" condition your FEO will require evidence (e.g. club shooting records) that you have attended a club and used all of your conditioned firearms each year.
They can and do suspend or cancel FACs for breaches. This is an annual check, not just at renewal time.
When you renew an FAC which includes Target Shooting one of your two referees is required to be a club official, who is prepared to vouch for you, another reason why you must "show your face" from time to time.
Anyway club shooting can be sociable, great fun, you get to muck about with each others rifles in a safe legal environment and you can pretty much apply for whatever you want, within reason, as long as your cabinet is big enough.