If you want to carry a handgun legally in Maryland, understanding the application process is your first step. A Concealed Weapon Permit Maryland applicants seek is officially called a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit. The Maryland State Police (MSP) administers the licensing process, including eligibility reviews, firearms training requirements, background checks, and application decisions.
Whether you are applying for the first time or preparing to meet the requirements for lawful concealed carry, knowing what to expect can help you avoid unnecessary delays. With guidance from MSP Firearms Training, you can understand the training process and prepare for the next steps toward responsible firearm ownership.
1. Check Your Eligibility for a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit
Before applying, determine whether you meet Maryland’s legal eligibility requirements. Generally, you must be at least 21 years old, although certain exceptions apply to qualifying members of the armed forces and uniformed services.
Maryland State Police also evaluate criminal history and other statutory disqualifications, including certain drug-related convictions and circumstances involving alcohol or drug addiction, habitual controlled-substance use, or a propensity for violence or instability that could endanger yourself or others.
Meeting the basic age requirement does not guarantee approval. Your application must satisfy the applicable legal standards.
Start by reviewing the official Maryland Wear and Carry Permit requirements. This resource explains eligibility, application procedures, documentation, and current licensing requirements.
2. Complete the Required Maryland Firearms Training
For most first-time applicants, Maryland requires a minimum of 16 hours of firearms safety training completed through a Maryland State Police-approved Qualified Handgun Instructor. The training must generally be completed within two years before you submit your application.
Your course covers essential subjects, including:
- Maryland and applicable federal firearms laws
- Safe firearm handling, operation, and storage
- Legal considerations involving self-defense and the use of force
- Handgun safety and practical shooting proficiency
- Applicable qualification and documentation requirements
You must demonstrate firearm proficiency and achieve at least 70% accuracy on the applicable qualification course. Most civilian applicants must complete a Basic Practical Handgun Course involving at least 25 rounds, with shooting distances no greater than 15 yards.
Choose a provider that understands Maryland’s training standards and documentation requirements. Maryland concealed carry training with MSP Firearms Training can help you explore available instruction and prepare for the educational and practical components of the process.
Certain applicants may qualify for training exemptions under Maryland law. Confirm your eligibility for any exemption directly with MSP rather than assuming previous experience automatically satisfies the requirement.
3. Complete Fingerprinting and Prepare Your Documents
Before submitting your application, arrange the required LiveScan fingerprinting through an authorized provider. Maryland uses fingerprint records for state and federal background checks.
Make sure your fingerprints are submitted according to the current Maryland State Police instructions. Keep your fingerprint receipt because you will need to upload a copy with your application.
You should also prepare the following items:
- A color, passport-style photograph in the required format
- Your signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet, or documentation of an applicable training exemption
- A copy of your LiveScan fingerprint receipt
- Accurate personal information and any additional documents requested by MSP
Review the official checklist before submitting anything. Incomplete records, outdated fingerprints, or missing qualification documents can delay your application.
4. Submit Your Application Through the MSP Licensing Portal
Maryland processes Wear and Carry Permit applications through its online licensing portal. Once you have completed the required preliminary steps, create an account or sign in to your existing account.
Follow these steps:
- Access the official Maryland State Police Wear and Carry Permit portal.
- Upload your fingerprint receipt, qualification documentation, and photograph.
- Complete every required section of the application.
- Review your information for accuracy and completeness.
- Pay the applicable application fee and submit your application electronically.
The published initial application fee is $125, excluding fingerprinting costs. Verify the current fee before submitting your payment because administrative requirements can change.
Save your confirmation and retain copies of your supporting documents. If MSP requests corrections or additional information, respond promptly to help avoid unnecessary delays.
5. Understand the Background Check and Processing Timeline
After you submit a complete application and pay the required fee, Maryland State Police review your records, conduct a background investigation, and determine whether you qualify for a permit.
MSP currently advises applicants to allow up to 90 days for a decision. Actual processing times may vary depending on the completeness of your application and the agency’s review workload.
Monitor your application through the designated system and check your email for updates. If your application is denied, review the decision notice carefully because it explains the available review or appeal procedures and applicable deadlines.
Important: Submitting an application does not authorize you to carry a concealed handgun. You must receive approval and your permit card before carrying under the permit.
6. Learn the Rules After Your Permit Is Approved
Receiving your Maryland Wear and Carry Permit does not give you unrestricted permission to carry a handgun everywhere. You must understand applicable restrictions involving prohibited locations, private property, transportation, and lawful use of force.
Keep your permit information accessible as required, follow current state and federal laws, and maintain safe firearm-handling practices.
You should also plan ahead for renewal. An initial Maryland Wear and Carry Permit generally expires on the last day of your birth month, two years after issuance. Renewals are generally issued for an additional three years.
Unless exempt, renewal applicants must complete eight hours of approved firearms safety training. Maryland recommends starting the renewal process 90 days before expiration. If your permit expires, you generally must apply again as a new applicant and complete the initial requirements.
Always verify your expiration date and current renewal instructions with Maryland State Police.
Prepare for Your Maryland Concealed Weapon Permit Application
Applying for a concealed weapon permit in Maryland requires preparation, approved training, accurate documentation, fingerprinting, and a background investigation. Following each step carefully can help you avoid common application mistakes.
If you need help understanding the training portion of the process, MSP Firearms Training offers firearms instruction for Maryland concealed carry applicants.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Maryland concealed carry training options or contact the training team to discuss available classes, scheduling, and course requirements. You can also confirm licensing questions directly with Maryland State Police before submitting your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you apply for a concealed weapon permit in Maryland?
Check your eligibility, complete the required approved training, submit LiveScan fingerprints, prepare your photograph and qualification documentation, and apply through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. Pay the required fee and follow any additional instructions.
2. How many hours of training do you need in Maryland?
Most first-time applicants must complete 16 hours of approved firearms safety training. Renewal applicants generally need eight hours unless exempt. Applicants must also meet the applicable shooting proficiency standard.
3. How much does a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit cost?
The published initial application fee is $125, excluding fingerprinting costs. Training and fingerprinting expenses may vary. Confirm current fees with Maryland State Police and your chosen training provider.
4. How long does Maryland take to approve a concealed carry permit?
Maryland State Police advises applicants to allow up to 90 days for a decision after receiving the completed application and required fee. Incomplete submissions or additional review requirements may affect processing.
5. Can you carry a handgun while your Maryland permit application is pending?
No. Submitting an initial application does not authorize concealed carry. You must receive approval and your permit card before carrying under that permit. Different rules apply to certain timely renewal applications.
