How to get a gun in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has some of the strictest gun control laws in the country. If you’re a law-abiding citizen looking to purchase a firearm in Massachusetts, you’ll need to navigate a complex process governed by state and federal laws. In this article, we’ll break down the steps to obtain a firearm in Massachusetts.
Prerequisites
Before we dive into the process, you should know that Massachusetts residents must meet the following criteria to purchase a firearm:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 21 years old (for handguns)
- Be at least 18 years old (for rifles and shotguns)
- Not have any firearms-related felony convictions
- Not have any outstanding criminal warrants
- Not have been involuntarily hospitalized for mental health treatment or adjudicated incompetent
- Not have any restraining orders against you
- Pass a criminal background check
Step 1: Choose the Right Permit
Massachusetts has four types of firearm permits, each with different requirements:
- License to Carry: Allows you to carry a firearm in public
- License to Possess: Allows you to keep a firearm at home but not carry it in public
- Firearm Identification Card: Required to purchase a rifle or shotgun
- Massachusetts State Police ID Card: Optional, but required for specific gun-related activities
Most residents will need a Firearm Identification Card to buy a rifle or shotgun and a License to Carry if they want to carry their firearm in public.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Before applying for a permit or ID card, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents:
- Identifying documents: Driver’s license, passport, state ID, or other recognized identification
- Proof of residency: Utility bills, lease agreements, or other documents showing your MA address
- Payment: The permit or ID card fee, which is currently $100 for non-residents
Step 3: Apply for the Permit or ID Card
You can apply online or in-person at the Massachusetts State Police Firearms Licensing Review Board office. Some dealers may also offer direct applications. When applying online, you’ll need:
- A completed permit application form (Available on the Mass State Police website)
- ID and residency documentation
- Payment
- Fingerprint card (For a fee, depending on the applicant’s needs)
Step 4: Wait for the Results
The Firearms Licensing Review Board will review your application and conduct a background check. This may take a few weeks to several months. You can check on the status of your application online or by contacting the Mass State Police.
Step 5: Collect Your Permit or ID Card
Once approved, the Firearms Licensing Review Board will issue your permit or ID card. If approved in-person, you’ll pick up your permit or card at the same location where you applied. If mailed, it should arrive by certified mail within 4-6 weeks.
Additional Requirements for Non-Residents
If you’re a non-resident wanting to purchase a firearm in Massachusetts, you’ll need:
- A permanent residence outside MA
- Proof of non-residency
- Obtain a Federal Firearms License (FFL) Transferee: This authorization allows you to purchase and transfer a firearm in the state
- Conduct a Massachusetts background check: In addition to your state’s background check process, you’ll need a Massachusetts-specific background check as well
Table 1: MA Firearm Permit Types
| Type | Requirements | Purpose | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| License to Carry | Background check, permits, and fee | Public carry | $100/year |
| License to Possess | Background check and permits | Home possession only | $40/year |
| Firearm Identification Card | Background check and fees | Rifle and shotgun sales | $10/year |
| Massachusetts State Police ID Card | Optional, some activities require | Optional for gun-related activities | Not applicable |
Conclusion
Acquiring a firearm in Massachusetts requires attention to detail, patience, and documentation. By following these steps and understanding the requirements and restrictions, you can enjoy the legal rights to owning and carrying firearms in this state.
