How to get your gun permit in NJ?

How to Get Your Gun Permit in NJ?

Getting a gun permit in New Jersey can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, with the right guidance, you can navigate the requirements and obtain your permit. In this article, we will outline the step-by-step process of obtaining a gun permit in New Jersey.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for a gun permit, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the New Jersey State Police. You must be:

• A resident of New Jersey
• At least 21 years old
• A United States citizen or a lawfully admitted alien
• Not currently under indictment or have a prior conviction for a felony or a crime involving domestic violence
• Not currently under a restraining order or have a prior restraining order against you
• Not currently prohibited from possessing firearms due to a mental health issue or a history of substance abuse

Step 1: Apply for a Firearms Identification Card (FID)

To apply for a gun permit in New Jersey, you must first obtain a Firearms Identification Card (FID). The FID card is a required step in the process and serves as proof of your eligibility to purchase and possess firearms.

Application Requirements

To apply for an FID card, you will need to:

• Fill out the Application for Firearms Identification Card (Form 5340) in its entirety
• Provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport
• Provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
• Provide a set of fingerprints
• Pay the application fee, which is currently $20

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Once you have completed the application, you must submit it to the New Jersey State Police for processing. You can submit your application in person or by mail.

In-Person Submission

To submit your application in person, you must visit the New Jersey State Police headquarters in West Trenton, NJ. You will need to bring the completed application, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a set of fingerprints.

Mail-In Submission

To submit your application by mail, you must mail the completed application, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a set of fingerprints to the New Jersey State Police headquarters in West Trenton, NJ.

Step 3: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the New Jersey State Police to process it. This may take several weeks or months, depending on the workload of the police department.

Processing Timeline

Here is a general timeline for the processing of FID card applications:

• 1-2 weeks: The application is reviewed and verified by the New Jersey State Police
• 2-4 weeks: The applicant is contacted to provide additional information or to schedule a fingerprinting appointment
• 4-6 weeks: The FID card is issued

Step 4: Take the Firearms Safety Course

Once your FID card has been issued, you will need to take a firearms safety course. This course is required by the New Jersey State Police and serves as proof that you are knowledgeable about firearms safety and handling.

Approved Courses

The following firearms safety courses are approved by the New Jersey State Police:

• NRA Basic Pistol Course: Offered by the National Rifle Association (NRA)
• NJSP Firearms Training Program: Offered by the New Jersey State Police
• Local Law Enforcement Agencies: Many local law enforcement agencies offer firearms safety courses

Step 5: Apply for a Pistol Purchase Permit

After completing the firearms safety course, you can apply for a pistol purchase permit. This permit allows you to purchase a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer.

Application Requirements

To apply for a pistol purchase permit, you will need to:

• Fill out the Application for Pistol Purchase Permit (Form 5340.1) in its entirety
• Provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport
• Provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
• Provide a set of fingerprints
• Pay the application fee, which is currently $20
• Attach a copy of your FID card
• Attach a copy of your firearms safety course completion certificate

Step 6: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the New Jersey State Police to process it. This may take several weeks or months, depending on the workload of the police department.

Processing Timeline

Here is a general timeline for the processing of pistol purchase permit applications:

• 1-2 weeks: The application is reviewed and verified by the New Jersey State Police
• 2-4 weeks: The applicant is contacted to provide additional information or to schedule a fingerprinting appointment
• 4-6 weeks: The pistol purchase permit is issued

Conclusion

Obtaining a gun permit in New Jersey requires a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria, application process, and processing timeline. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully obtain your gun permit and enjoy the legal right to possess and carry firearms in the state of New Jersey.

Additional Resources

For more information on the gun permit process in New Jersey, please visit the New Jersey State Police website or contact the New Jersey State Police Firearms Unit at (609) 882-2000.

Table: Eligibility Criteria

Table: FID Card Application Requirements

Table: Pistol Purchase Permit Application Requirements