F.A.Q.

- Do I qualify for a Wear & Carry Permit?

Wear and Carry Permits may be issued to any adult (18 years of age or over) who meets the following criteria:

• An applicant between 18 and 21 years of age may only be issued a wear and carry permit to possess a regulated firearm required for employment. - P.S. 5-133 (d)(2)(v)

• Has not been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor for which a sentence of imprisonment for more than one year has been imposed; or convicted of a criminal offense for which you could have been sentenced to more than 2 years incarceration.

• Has not been convicted of a crime involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance;

• Is not presently an alcoholic, addict, or habitual user of a controlled dangerous substance unless under legitimate medical direction;

• Based on an investigation, has not exhibited a propensity for violence or instability that may reasonably render the person’s possession of a handgun a danger to the person or others.

As of October 1, 2013, has successfully completed the Maryland State Police approved firearms training course within 2 years prior to submitting the original or renewal application.

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- "I had _______ charges ____years ago, can I get my permit?"

We do not offer legal advice and recommend you contact a Defense Attorney for guidance.

Am I required to take a Wear & Carry Class?

Proof of training is required for every original application and renewal application submitted after October 1, 2013, unless exempt. If you are any one of the below you are exempt​.

• You are an active law enforcement officer with a law enforcement agency of the United States, the State or any local law enforcement agency in the State.

• You are a retired law enforcement officer with a law enforcement agency of the United States, the State or any local law enforcement agency in the State.

• You are an active, retired, or honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard.

• You are a Qualified Handgun Instructor registered with the Maryland State Police.
• You have successfully completed a firearms training course given by a Qualified Handgun Instructor. (The on-line firearm safety course is no longer accepted).

- If I had a Wear and Carry Permit and it has expired, can I renew it?

You must receive subsequent training within 2 years of submitting your renewal application. Your renewal application may be submitted no earlier than 90 days prior to your expiration date and no later than the 2 weeks prior to your expiration date. In the even your WCHP expires prior to submission of the renewal application, you will be required to attend a 16 hour class and submit your application as an original.