Obtaining a gun permit, also known as a handgun wear and carry permit, is a process that varies significantly depending on your location. This guide focuses on providing a comprehensive overview of the factors influencing the cost of a gun permit, with specific examples and considerations for Maryland. Understanding these costs and requirements is crucial for anyone looking to legally carry a handgun.
Who Needs a Gun Permit?
In Maryland, as in many other states, anyone who wishes to legally wear, carry, or transport a handgun must possess a valid Maryland Handgun Wear and Carry Permit issued by the Maryland Department of State Police. It’s important to note that submitting an application does not automatically authorize you to carry a handgun.
Eligibility Criteria for a Gun Permit
To be eligible for a Wear and Carry Permit in Maryland, you must meet specific criteria:
- Age and Status: Be at least 21 years old or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, the National Guard, or the uniformed services.
- Criminal Record: Have no felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions with a sentence of imprisonment for more than one year, and no convictions for crimes that could have resulted in more than two years of incarceration.
- Substance Abuse: Not be convicted of a crime involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance.
- Addiction: Not be an alcoholic, addict, or habitual user of a controlled dangerous substance, unless under legitimate medical direction.
- Behavioral History: Not exhibit a propensity for violence or instability that may reasonably render your possession of a handgun a danger to yourself or others.
- Training: Unless exempt, successfully complete a Maryland State Police-approved firearms training course within two years prior to submitting your application.
Applying for a Gun Permit in Maryland
The Maryland State Police application for a Wear and Carry Permit can only be completed through the Licensing Portal. Applicants must submit the following prerequisites and documentation:
1. LIVESCAN Fingerprints
Applicants are required to submit Livescan fingerprints for a background investigation before submitting their Wear and Carry Permit application. You must obtain a receipt from the Livescan vendor as proof of submission to Maryland CJIS and the FBI under the appropriate authorization code. This receipt must be uploaded with your application.
2. Firearms Safety Training
Unless exempt, you must complete a Maryland State Police-approved 16-hour Firearms Safety Training Course provided by a qualified handgun instructor within two years before applying.
You will need to upload a completed and signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet to the documents section of the application in the Licensing Portal.
3. Color Passport Style Photograph
A color passport-style photograph must be uploaded into the application. The Licensing Portal provides a photo editor and instructions for this process, so it’s generally unnecessary to purchase passport photos separately.
What Influences the Cost of a Gun Permit?
The cost of obtaining a gun permit can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Application Fees
The application fee is a primary cost component. In Maryland, the fees are as follows:
- Original/Initial: $125.00
- Renewal: $75.00
- Replacement/Modification: $20.00
- Active/Retired Law Enforcement Officers: $0.00
These fees are non-refundable, so ensure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying.
2. Training Costs
Firearms safety training is often a mandatory component of the application process. The cost of these courses can vary widely depending on the instructor, location, and duration of the training. In Maryland, the initial Wear and Carry Permit requires a 16-hour course, while renewal requires an 8-hour course, impacting the overall cost.
3. Fingerprinting Fees
Submitting fingerprints for a background check is another essential step. The cost for Livescan fingerprinting services varies depending on the vendor. This fee is separate from the application fee paid to the Maryland State Police.
4. Additional Documentation
You may incur additional costs for obtaining necessary documentation, such as certified copies of court records or medical evaluations, if required based on your individual circumstances.
5. Legal Consultation
In some cases, applicants may seek legal consultation to understand their rights and obligations or to address potential issues in their background. Legal fees can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s rates.
Cost of Renewal
Gun permits typically have an expiration date, and renewing your permit incurs additional costs. In Maryland, Wear and Carry Permits expire on the last day of the permit holder’s birth month, two years after the issue date. Renewal requires paying a renewal fee ($75.00 in Maryland) and completing an 8-hour Firearms Safety Training Course unless exempt.
Factors Affecting Processing Time
The processing time for a gun permit can vary. In Maryland, the State Police aim to complete the application process within 90 days. Factors that can affect this timeline include:
- Completeness of Application: Incomplete applications will be returned for corrections, delaying the process.
- Background Check: The time required to complete the criminal history background check can vary.
- Interviews: If a background investigator needs to conduct an interview, it will extend the processing time.
Where are Firearms Prohibited?
It’s also essential to be aware of locations where firearms are prohibited, as these restrictions can impact your decision to obtain a permit and carry a handgun. In Maryland, these locations include:
- School property
- Within 1,000 feet of a demonstration in a public place
- Legislative buildings
- Aboard aircraft
- State-owned public buildings and grounds
- Child care centers
Senate Bill 1, effective October 1, 2023, added further restrictions, including areas for children or vulnerable individuals, government or public infrastructure areas, and special purpose areas.
Recent Legal Challenges
On August 2, 2024, the United States District Court for the District of Maryland ordered an injunction against laws restricting the carrying of firearms in locations selling alcohol, private buildings or property without the owner’s consent, and within 1,000 feet of a public demonstration, citing these restrictions as unconstitutional.
Conclusion
Understanding the costs associated with obtaining a gun permit, including application fees, training expenses, and other potential costs, is essential for anyone considering legally carrying a handgun. Always ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and stay informed about the latest laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. For specific guidance, refer to the Wear and Carry Portal Users Guide.
