Can You get a gun permit online in Georgia?
In Georgia, obtaining a gun permit is a straightforward process that requires a few steps. While some states allow you to apply for a permit online, Georgia is not one of them. In this article, we will explore the process of obtaining a gun permit in Georgia and what you need to do to get one.
What is the Georgia Concealed Carry License?
The Georgia Concealed Carry License is a permit that allows you to carry a concealed weapon on your person. This license is issued by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Education (POST) Board, and it is valid for five years.
Requirements for Obtaining a Concealed Carry License
To obtain a concealed carry license in Georgia, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of Georgia
- Not have a felony conviction or be a fugitive from justice
- Not have a court-ordered mental health confinement or have been found incompetent to stand trial
- Not have a history of substance abuse or addiction
- Not have been arrested for or convicted of certain misdemeanors, such as battery or stalking
- Complete a firearms safety training course
The Application Process
To apply for a concealed carry license, you will need to complete the following steps:
- Fill out the application form: You can obtain a copy of the application form from the Georgia POST Board website or by visiting your local sheriff’s office. The form requires you to provide personal information, proof of residency, and fingerprints.
- Pay the application fee: The application fee is currently $89 for a new license.
- Provide proof of residency: You will need to provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Provide proof of identity: You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or ID card.
- Provide fingerprint cards: You will need to provide fingerprint cards from your local sheriff’s office.
- Take a firearms safety training course: You must complete a firearms safety training course approved by the Georgia POST Board before you can apply for the license.
Submission of Application
Once you have completed the application process, you will need to submit your application to your local sheriff’s office. The sheriff’s office will review your application and submit it to the Georgia POST Board for processing.
Processing Time
The processing time for a concealed carry license in Georgia typically takes several weeks to a few months. You will receive a notification from the POST Board once your application has been approved or denied.
Fees
The fees for a concealed carry license in Georgia are as follows:
- Application fee: $89
- Fingerprint fee: $45
- Background check fee: $20
- Total fee: $154
What Does the License Allow You to Do?
A Georgia Concealed Carry License allows you to carry a concealed weapon on your person, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns. It also allows you to possess and transport firearms and ammo.
Important Points
- You must renew your license every 5 years: You will receive a renewal notice from the POST Board before your license expires.
- Your license is valid throughout the state: You can carry your concealed weapon in any location within the state of Georgia.
- You may be exempt from the fingerprint requirement: If you have a current Georgia Concealed Carry License, you are exempt from the fingerprint requirement.
- You are required to carry your permit with you: You are required to carry your Concealed Carry License with you at all times when carrying a concealed weapon.
Concealed Carry Laws
Georgia has specific laws governing concealed carry, including the following:
- What constitutes a concealed weapon: A concealed weapon is one that is carried on your person or in a vehicle in a way that is not open and visible.
- Where you can carry a concealed weapon: You are allowed to carry a concealed weapon in most locations, including your home, workplace, and public places, but there are some restrictions.
- Where you cannot carry a concealed weapon: You are not allowed to carry a concealed weapon in certain locations, such as schools, government buildings, and certain public places.
- What happens if you are stopped by the police: If you are stopped by the police, you are required to immediately inform them that you have a concealed weapon and provide your license.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a gun permit in Georgia is a straightforward process that requires a few steps. While you cannot apply for the permit online, you can complete the application process in person at your local sheriff’s office. The fee for the permit is currently $154, and you must complete a firearms safety training course before you can apply. Once you have completed the application process, the processing time typically takes several weeks to a few months.
