Obtaining a concealed carry permit in Maryland can seem like a complex, daunting process, but with the right guidance, it is totally manageable.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your personal protection or simply exercise your Second Amendment rights, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process. From understanding eligibility requirements to completing the necessary training, we’ve got you covered.

1. Know the Laws!

Before you apply for a concealed carry permit in Maryland, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s firearm laws. Maryland has strict regulations, and understanding these rules is your responsibility. Here’s what you need to know:

Your Responsibility

As a permit holder, it’s your duty to know and follow all Maryland firearm laws. Ignorance of the law is not a defense, so make sure you stay informed and compliant with state regulations.

Restricted Areas

Even with a concealed carry permit, there are specific places where you cannot carry a firearm. These include schools, government buildings, public demonstrations, and private properties that prohibit firearms. Always be aware of your surroundings, and respect these restrictions to avoid legal trouble.

No Open Carry

In Maryland, it is illegal to open carry a firearm, even if you have a Wear and Carry permit. This means your weapon must always be concealed and not visible to others. Violating this law can result in severe penalties, including the revocation of your permit.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a concealed carry permit in Maryland, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Minimum 21 years old.
No felony or disqualifying misdemeanor convictions, substance abuse issues, or mental health problems.
Completion of a state-approved firearms training course (16 hours) within two years of submitting the application.
No active restraining orders or domestic violence convictions.

2. Complete Training Course

Completing a state-approved firearms training course is a non-negotiable prerequisite to obtaining your Wear and Carry permit in Maryland.

The 16-hour training course covers a range of topics designed to ensure you are knowledgeable and proficient in firearm safety and handling. Key components include:

Firearm Safety: Fundamental safety rules for handling, storing, and carrying firearms.
Legal Knowledge: Understanding Maryland’s firearm laws, including when and where you can legally carry a concealed weapon and the legal implications of using a firearm in self-defense.
Basic Skills and Marksmanship: Handgun mechanisms and operation and basic shooting techniques, aiming, and accuracy.
Situational Awareness: How to assess threats and make informed decisions in high-stress situations.

At the end of the course, you will be given a proficiency test where you must demonstrate safe gun handling skills and complete a course of at least 25 rounds from no further than 15 yards away. To pass, you must have at least 70% accuracy.

The cost of the training course can vary depending on the provider, but on average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for the mandatory training.

Completing this training ensures that you are prepared to carry a concealed firearm responsibly and legally. Make sure to choose a reputable training provider to get the most comprehensive and up-to-date instruction.

3. Get Fingerprinted

Getting fingerprinted is a mandatory step in the process of obtaining a concealed carry permit in Maryland.

LiveScan fingerprinting must be done at an Electronic Fingerprint Processing Center authorized by the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. Other forms of fingerprinting are not accepted.

Some facilities offering the state-approved training course also provide fingerprinting services for an additional fee that meets the state’s requirements for Wear and Carry permit applications.

According to the Maryland State Police website, you should provide the following information to the technician:

Agency Authorization Number: 9400082484
Agency ORI Number: MDMSP6000
Reason Fingerprinted: MD Public Safety Article, Section 5-305

Once fingerprinting is complete, you will receive an electronic fingerprint transmission receipt, which you must include in your application.

4. Complete Application

Applications must be submitted through the online Maryland Licensing Portal. Paper applications are not an option. To get started, go to the site, create an account, and log in. Detailed instructions will take you through the application step by step.

You will not be able to submit the application until it is fully complete.

What You’ll Need

To complete your application, you will need the following items:

Valid email address
Full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.
A valid government-issued ID with your current address.
Proof of completion of the required firearms training course.
Electronic fingerprint transmission receipt proving that you have been fingerprinted at an approved location.
Two color passport-sized photos taken within the past 30 days.
Application fee of $125, payable electronically with either Visa or Mastercard.

Tips for Avoiding Delays

To ensure your application is processed smoothly and without unnecessary delays, follow these tips:

Follow Instructions Carefully: Adhere to the specific instructions provided in the application packet, including formatting and submission guidelines.
Double-Check Documentation: Make sure all required documents are complete and accurate and upload successfully before attempting to submit your application.
Stay Up-to-Date: Check the Maryland State Police website for any updates or changes to the application process that might affect you.
Respond Promptly: If the licensing division requests additional information or clarification, respond quickly to avoid processing delays.
Maintain Records: Keep copies of all submitted documents and any correspondence with the licensing division for your records.

5. Wait for Approval

The typical wait time for processing and approval is 60-90 days, You’ll receive email updates regarding the status of your pending application, or you can check the status through your account on the Licensing Portal.

If you don’t receive notification of approval or denial after 90 days, contact the Maryland State Police Licensing Division. Be aware that you cannot conceal carry legally until you receive your permit.

Renewing Your Wear and Carry Permit

Your initial concealed carry permit expires on the last day of your birth month two years after the permit is issued. Start your renewal application at least 90 days prior to the expiration date. You should receive a renewal reminder via email.

Before you submit a renewal application, you must complete an 8-hour training course approved by the state. This is quite similar to the course required for the initial permit, but it lasts just one day instead of two.

Once you have proof that you’ve completed the required training, visit the Licensing Portal, log in to your account, and follow the instructions provided. You will not be asked to submit fingerprints, but other than that, the process is very much the same as when you first applied. The renewal fee is $75, payable electronically at the time of application.

Be thorough, double-check all information and documentation for accuracy, and submit the application well ahead of the expiration date. Within 90 days, you should receive your renewed permit.