Applying for a Concealed Weapon Permit Maryland residents can legally use requires careful preparation, accurate information, and the right supporting documents. Before submitting your application, you should understand the Maryland State Police (MSP) requirements, complete your firearms training, and gather the records needed for the official licensing portal.
Whether you are applying for the first time or preparing for a renewal, organizing your paperwork in advance can help you avoid unnecessary delays. MSP Firearms Training can help you understand the training requirements and prepare for the next steps in your Maryland Wear and Carry Permit application.
What Documents Do You Need for a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit?
For an initial Maryland Wear and Carry Permit application, prepare the following documents and information:
- A copy of your LiveScan fingerprint receipt.
- A signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet or acceptable documentation of a training exemption.
- A color, passport-style photograph.
- Personal identification and information required to complete your online application.
- Any additional supporting documentation requested by the Maryland State Police for your circumstances.
You must also complete the online application and pay the applicable fee through the official Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. Always review the latest instructions before submitting your documents.
1. LiveScan Fingerprint Receipt
Fingerprinting is an essential step in the initial permit application process. Maryland requires applicants to submit fingerprints for the applicable state and federal background checks.
After completing fingerprinting through an authorized LiveScan provider, obtain a receipt and keep a copy for your application.
Before your appointment, confirm the correct agency information, fingerprinting purpose, and submission instructions through the official Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. Following the current instructions helps ensure your fingerprints are processed under the correct application category.
Keep your receipt accessible because you may need to upload it with your application. Completing this step carefully can help prevent avoidable processing delays.
2. Firearms Training Certificate or Qualification Score Sheet
Your firearms training documentation is another important part of the process. Unless you qualify for an exemption, Maryland generally requires first-time applicants to complete an approved 16-hour Firearms Safety Training Course taught by a Maryland State Police-registered Qualified Handgun Instructor.
After successfully completing the course, you should receive a completed and signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet. This document verifies that you completed the required training and demonstrated the necessary handgun proficiency.
Maryland’s training requirements include a minimum shooting qualification score of 70%. Your course must meet the state’s applicable standards.
Certain applicants may qualify for training exemptions, including eligible law enforcement officers, qualifying military personnel, registered Qualified Handgun Instructors, and individuals who have completed qualifying firearms training. Confirm your eligibility and the supporting documents required by MSP before applying.
For additional guidance, explore this resource on obtaining a concealed carry permit in Maryland.
3. A Color Passport-Style Photograph
You must upload a suitable photograph as part of your application. Prepare a recent color, passport-style image that meets the Maryland State Police requirements.
The photograph should clearly show your face and head and shoulders against a plain white background. Follow the current portal specifications for image size, framing, and file format.
Before uploading your photograph, check that:
- Your face is clearly visible.
- The background is plain and white.
- The image is in color and properly framed.
- The file is clear and suitable for electronic submission.
Preparing the photograph in advance can help you complete your application without unnecessary interruptions.
4. Personal Identification and Application Information
Have your current identification available before completing the online application. Gather the information needed to enter your legal name, residential address, date and place of birth, identification details, occupation, and contact information.
Enter your details consistently with your official records. Review the entire application before submitting it, paying particular attention to spelling, addresses, dates, and other identifying information.
If the Licensing Division requests additional information or supporting records during its review, respond promptly and follow the instructions provided through the official portal.
Accurate information helps the reviewing authority process your application and reduces the likelihood of corrections.
5. Additional Documents and Application Fee
Some applications may require additional supporting records depending on the applicant’s circumstances, permit category, or information requested during the background investigation. Review each section of the application to determine whether anything beyond the standard documents applies to you.
Maryland State Police has listed a $125 initial application fee, excluding fingerprinting charges. Fees can change, so verify the current amount through the official licensing portal before paying.
You must complete and submit your application electronically through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. Follow the portal’s instructions to upload the necessary documents and pay the required fee.
How to Submit Your Documents
Once you have assembled your paperwork, follow these steps:
- Access your Maryland State Police Licensing Portal account.
- Complete fingerprinting through an authorized LiveScan provider.
- Finish your approved firearms safety training or prepare acceptable exemption documentation.
- Upload your fingerprint receipt, qualification score sheet or exemption documentation, and passport-style photograph.
- Complete every required application section and review your information.
- Pay the applicable fee and electronically submit your application.
- Monitor your email and licensing portal for updates or requests for additional information.
Maryland State Police advises applicants to allow up to 90 days for a decision after receiving a completed application and the required fee. Processing times can vary, particularly if information is missing or further review is necessary.
Remember that submitting an application does not authorize you to carry a handgun under the requested permit. You must receive approval and your permit card before carrying under that authorization.
Prepare Your Application with MSP Firearms Training
Getting your documents together is easier when you understand the training and application requirements before you begin. MSP Firearms Training provides firearms education to help applicants prepare for Maryland’s Wear and Carry Permit process.
Explore Maryland concealed carry training to learn about available training options and take the next step toward completing your required coursework.
For the latest application instructions, fees, and document requirements, consult the official Maryland State Police Wear and Carry Permit guidance.
Prepare your paperwork early, verify the current requirements, and submit a complete application to make the process more straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What documents are required for a Maryland concealed weapon permit?
You generally need a LiveScan fingerprint receipt, a signed MSP 29-14 qualification score sheet or acceptable training exemption documentation, a color passport-style photograph, and the information required for your online application.
2. Do you need firearms training to apply in Maryland?
Most first-time applicants must complete an approved 16-hour firearms safety training course with a Qualified Handgun Instructor. Certain applicants may qualify for an exemption under Maryland State Police rules.
3. How much does a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit cost?
Maryland State Police has listed a $125 initial application fee, excluding fingerprinting charges. Check the official licensing portal for the current fee before submitting payment.
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. Processing times may vary.
5. Can you carry a handgun while waiting for permit approval?
Submitting your application does not authorize you to carry a handgun under the requested permit. You must receive approval and your permit card before carrying under that authorization.
