If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking about taking the step to legally carry a firearm for personal protection. I was in your shoes not long ago. The process can seem overwhelming at first, but let me walk you through the steps I took to get my Concealed Weapons Permit in Maryland—what’s officially called the Wear and Carry Permit.
Maryland is not like some of the more gun-permissive states. It’s considered a “may-issue” state, which means the Maryland State Police (MSP) have discretion over issuing permits. But thanks to recent changes and more awareness about gun rights, the pathway has become clearer, although still structured.
Let me break it down for you step-by-step.
Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirements
Before you even think about filling out an application, you need to meet the basic eligibility requirements for a Concealed Weapons Permit in Maryland. At the time I applied, I had to:
- Be at least 21 years old (18 for employment-related permits)
- Have no felony convictions
- Be of sound mind and not addicted to controlled substances
- Demonstrate a good and substantial reason to carry (this standard has been relaxed recently, but it’s still considered during the review)
- Complete MSP Firearms Training
I knew the biggest part of this process would be the MSP Firearms Training, so that’s where I focused first.
Step 2: Take the MSP Firearms Training
This isn’t just a short course. You’re required to complete 16 hours of certified training, which includes:
- Classroom instruction on Maryland law, use of deadly force, and firearm safety
- Live fire training, including hitting a target with 70% accuracy or better
I signed up with a certified instructor who was approved by the Maryland State Police. This step was not just mandatory—it was enlightening. I walked away with a much deeper understanding of my responsibilities as a concealed carrier.
Pro tip: Make sure your instructor is up to date with MSP guidelines. They’ll give you a certificate at the end, which you’ll need for your application.
Step 3: Fingerprinting and Background Check
After my training, I went straight to a Maryland-authorized fingerprinting service. This step is mandatory and must be completed before submitting your application. The fingerprinting provider will submit your fingerprints electronically to the CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System) and the FBI.
It cost around $60 and took about 15 minutes. Make sure to get a receipt or confirmation number—MSP might ask for it during processing.
Step 4: Gather Your Documentation
Here’s everything I had to gather before applying for my Concealed Weapons Permit in Maryland:
- Copy of my driver’s license
- Training certificate (from MSP-approved firearms training)
- Fingerprint confirmation
- Any documentation supporting my reason for applying (this can vary, but in my case, I submitted proof of my work-related travel in higher-risk areas)
Once I had everything, I was ready to apply online.
Step 5: Submit the Online Application
Maryland makes it relatively easy with their Licensing Portal on the MSP website. You’ll need to create an account, then complete the Wear and Carry Permit application.
Here’s what I had to enter:
- Personal information
- Employment information
- Reason for requesting a permit
- Criminal history disclosure
- Training details
At the end of the application, I uploaded all my documents and paid the $75 application fee.
Step 6: Wait for the Review Process
After submitting, the waiting began. The Maryland State Police says it takes up to 90 days to process applications, but in my case, it was just under 60.
During that time, MSP contacted me once for clarification about my training dates. Other than that, it was a waiting game.
What I appreciated is that the online portal showed the progress of my application—from “Submitted” to “Under Review” to finally “Approved.”
Step 7: Receiving the Permit
When the permit arrived in the mail, I felt a sense of responsibility more than anything else. My Concealed Weapons Permit in Maryland is valid for two years, and I’ll need to complete 8 hours of renewal training before I can renew it.
Some Additional Things I Learned
- Reciprocity is limited: Maryland doesn’t recognize permits from many other states, and many other states don’t recognize Maryland’s. Know the laws if you’re traveling.
- Duty to inform: Maryland law doesn’t require you to inform police that you’re carrying during a traffic stop, but it’s considered respectful and safe to do so.
- No-permit zones: Just because you have the permit doesn’t mean you can carry everywhere. Federal buildings, schools, and certain public properties are off-limits.
- MSP Firearms Training is critical: It’s not just about checking a box—it’s about preparing you for a life-or-death responsibility.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Concealed Weapons Permit in Maryland isn’t something to take lightly. The process is structured and involves several steps, but if you’re willing to invest the time and effort, it’s absolutely doable.
What I appreciated most was how seriously Maryland treats this process. It made me realize how important it is to be not just a gun owner—but a responsible one. From the MSP Firearms Training to the application process, every step taught me something valuable.
If you’re thinking about getting your permit, my best advice is: start with the training. Once you complete it, the rest falls into place.
Stay safe, stay informed, and carry responsibly.
Need more info or training resources?
You can visit the official Maryland State Police Licensing Portal or contact a certified MSP Firearms Training provider in your area.
Let me know in the comments if you’ve started your application or have questions—I’m happy to help based on my own experience.
