How to get a handgun permit in NJ?

How to Get a Handgun Permit in NJ

As a resident of New Jersey, obtaining a handgun permit can be a lengthy and complex process. The Garden State has some of the toughest gun laws in the country, and there are specific requirements and restrictions that you must meet before you can obtain a permit. In this article, we will guide you through the steps you need to take to get a handgun permit in NJ.

Step 1: Check if you are eligible to apply

Before you can start the application process, you must check if you are eligible to apply for a handgun permit in NJ. You can do this by meeting the following requirements:

• Residency: You must be a resident of New Jersey.
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• Age: You must be at least 21 years old.
• Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
• Not Prohibited: You must not have any legal restrictions that prohibit you from owning a handgun.
• Not Currently Convicted: You must not be currently convicted of a felony or any drug-related offense.

Step 2: Meet the requirements

Once you have determined that you are eligible to apply, you must meet the requirements set forth by the state. These include:

• Complete a Firearms Safety Course: You must complete a firearms safety course approved by the New Jersey Attorney General.
• Have a Real Photo ID: You must have a real photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.
• Not be Subject to any Protection Order: You must not be subject to a restraining order or any other type of protection order that would prevent you from possessing a firearm.
• Not have any Outstanding Unpaid Debts: You must not have any outstanding unpaid debts to the State of New Jersey.

Step 3: Obtain the application

Once you have met the requirements, you can obtain the handgun permit application from the New Jersey State Police or by downloading it from their website. You can also get the application from your local police department or sheriff’s office.

Step 4: Fill out the application

The application includes biographical information about you, including your name, address, date of birth, and other personal information. You will also be required to disclose any prior arrests or convictions, as well as any outstanding unpaid debts to the state.

Step 5: Provide the necessary documents

In addition to the application, you will need to provide supporting documentation, including:

• Photocopy of a Real Photo ID: You must provide a photocopy of your real photo ID.
• Certified Copy of a Firearms Safety Course Completion Certificate: You must provide a certified copy of a firearms safety course completion certificate.
• Letter of Recommendation: You may be required to provide a letter of recommendation from a firearms dealer or shooting range.
• Affidavit: You will be required to sign an affidavit swearing that you have met all the requirements and have not committed any false information.

Step 6: Pay the application fee

You will be required to pay a $50 application fee, which is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied.

Step 7: Submit the application

Once you have completed the application and gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit the application to the New Jersey State Police. You can do this by mail, fax, or in person.

What to expect after submitting your application

After submitting your application, you can expect to wait approximately 8-12 weeks for it to be processed. You will be notified in writing of the outcome of your application. If your application is approved, you will receive a handgun permit, which is valid for 5 years.

Renewing Your Permit

To renew your handgun permit, you must submit a new application, complete the required firearms safety course, and pay a $20 renewal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a permit for each gun?: No, a handgun permit covers all firearms owned by you, not just the gun used to take the course.
• Can I own more than one handgun?: Yes, a handgun permit allows you to own more than one handgun, as long as they are legally owned and used for legitimate purposes.
• Do I need to keep my permit with my gun?: Yes, it is recommended that you keep your permit with your gun, as it proves your lawful ownership and authority to carry the firearm.

Table: Handgun Permit Requirements

In Conclusion

Obtaining a handgun permit in NJ can be a complex and time-consuming process, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are in compliance with the law and can safely and legally own a firearm. Remember to always check your eligibility, meet the requirements, and complete the necessary steps to get your permit.