Wear & Carry Permit (Initial Application)
How to Obtain a Wear and Carry Permit
If you want to carry a handgun in Maryland, you’ll need a Wear and Carry Permit issued by the Maryland State Police (MSP). Below is a clear summary of what you need to know to apply for the program for the first time.
Basic Eligibility
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old (18 if you are applying for business reasons).
- Have no felony convictions or disqualifying criminal history.
- Complete state-approved training (unless you’re exempt).
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
- Provide a “good and substantial reason” for wanting a permit—while recent court rulings have effectively ended Maryland’s “may-issue” standard, the state still formally includes this step in the application process. Stating “self-defense” is legally acceptable and sufficient.
Training Requirements
- You must take 16 hours of in-person training from a Maryland State Police–certified instructor.
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Training must include:
- Firearm safety rules
- Maryland firearms laws
- Home defense and conflict avoidance
- Live-fire qualification (you must shoot with at least 70% accuracy).
- Once completed, you’ll receive a certificate and a signed MSP 29-14 qualification sheet.
- Training must be completed within 2 years before applying.
Exemptions apply for:
- Active or retired law enforcement
- Active or honorably discharged military
Application Process
You must submit everything through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal:
- Go to: https://licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov
- Create an account and select Wear and Carry Permit – Initial.
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Upload required documents:
- Training certificate + MSP 29-14 score sheet
- Passport-style photo (taken within the last 30 days)
- Any legal documents (e.g., restraining orders, if relevant)
- Submit fingerprints through a state-approved LiveScan provider. You’ll need your LiveScan Tracking Control Number (PCN) for your application.
- Pay the $150 application fee online with a credit card.
What to Expect After You Apply
- Maryland State Police will review your application and conduct a background check.
- If anything is missing, they’ll notify you in the portal and give you time to correct it.
- You should hear back within 90 days, though it may take less.
Validity and Renewal
- Your initial permit is valid for 2 years, plus the number of months remaining until your next birthday month. This means the total length will vary depending on when you apply. For example, if you apply one month after your birthday, your permit will be valid for 2 years and 11 months. If you apply just before your birthday, the validity will be 2 years and 1 month.
- Maryland permits always expire on the last day of your birth month.
- You can renew starting 90 days before expiration. Renewal training is only 8 hours (compared to the 16 hours for initial training).
Summary Checklist
| Requirement | Initial Permit Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age: | 21 (or 18 for business use) |
| Training: | 16 hours + live-fire (70% score) |
| Fingerprints: | Yes (Livescan) |
| Passport Photo: | Yes (taken within last 30 days) |
| Application Fee: | $150 (non-refundable) |
| Submission Method: | Online through MSP Licensing Portal |
| Permit Validity: | First one, 2 years; subsequent, 3 years |
| Processing Time: | Up to 90 days |
Final Thoughts
Maryland’s Wear and Carry Permit process has become easier in recent years, but it remains stricter compared to some states. The key is solid documentation, quality training, and attention to detail in your online application.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we can walk you through the training and help you prep everything you’ll need for your initial submission.
