How to Purchase a Handgun in Maryland
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before purchasing a handgun in Maryland, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the state. Here are the requirements:
• You must be at least 21 years old (18 years old for certain law enforcement officers and certain retired law enforcement officers)
• You must be a Maryland resident
• You must not have any prior felony convictions
• You must not have any pending felony charges
• You must not have any misdemeanor convictions involving violence within the past 5 years
Step 2: Choose a Licensed Dealer
You must purchase a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer in Maryland. There are over 1,000 licensed dealers in the state. Make sure to do your research and choose a reputable dealer. Here are some steps to help you find a licensed dealer:
• Visit the Maryland State Police’s website and use their Dealer Locator tool
• Contact the Maryland State Police’s Firearms Division and ask for a list of licensed dealers in your area
• Check online reviews and ratings of local gun shops
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
Once you’ve chosen a licensed dealer, you’ll need to fill out a Firearms Application form (Firearms Application (Form PF-6) from the Maryland State Police. You’ll need to provide the following information:
• Your name and contact information
• Your social security number
• A description of the handgun you want to purchase
• A description of the handgun’s manufacturer, model, and caliber
• The purpose of the handgun purchase (self-defense, sport shooting, etc.)
Step 4: Background Check
After submitting your application, the licensed dealer will perform a background check through the Maryland State Police’s database. This check will review your criminal history, including any felony convictions, misdemeanors involving violence, and any other relevant information.
Step 5: Obtain a Handgun Qualification License (HQL)
If the background check is approved, you’ll need to obtain a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) from the Maryland State Police. This license is valid for 5 years and requires a background check. To obtain an HQL, you’ll need to:
• Fill out a Handgun Qualification License Application form (Form PF-1) from the Maryland State Police
• Pay the application fee (currently $30)
• Provide fingerprints and a copy of your driver’s license or identification card
Step 6: Pick Up the Handgun
Once you’ve obtained your HQL, you can pick up your handgun from the licensed dealer. Make sure to inspect the handgun before taking it home to ensure it’s in good condition and functioning properly.
Step 7: Register the Handgun
Within 48 hours of purchasing a handgun, you must register it with the Maryland State Police. You can register your handgun online or by mail. Make sure to keep a record of your handgun’s make, model, and serial number, as well as the dealer’s name and address.
Important Information
Here are some important things to keep in mind when purchasing a handgun in Maryland:
• Firearm restrictions: Maryland has strict restrictions on certain types of firearms, including high-capacity magazines, certain semi-automatic rifles, and certain pistols. Make sure to check with the dealer and local authorities before purchasing a firearm.
• Permits and licenses: Make sure to obtain all necessary permits and licenses, including a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) and a firearms license from the Maryland State Police.
• Insurance: Consider obtaining insurance for your handgun to protect yourself in case of accidental damage or loss.
Table: Handgun Purchase Process
| Step | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Meet Eligibility Requirements | 21 years old, Maryland resident, no prior felony convictions, no pending felony charges, no misdemeanor convictions involving violence |
| 2 | Choose a Licensed Dealer | Research local gun shops, check online reviews and ratings |
| 3 | Fill Out Application | Firearms Application (Form PF-6) from Maryland State Police, provide personal information and description of handgun |
| 4 | Background Check | Licensed dealer performs background check through Maryland State Police’s database |
| 5 | Obtain Handgun Qualification License (HQL) | Fill out HQL Application (Form PF-1) from Maryland State Police, pay application fee, provide fingerprints and ID |
| 6 | Pick Up Handgun | Inspect handgun before taking it home |
| 7 | Register Handgun | Register handgun online or by mail within 48 hours of purchase |
Conclusion
Purchasing a handgun in Maryland requires meeting certain eligibility requirements, choosing a licensed dealer, filling out an application, undergoing a background check, obtaining a Handgun Qualification License (HQL), picking up the handgun, and registering the handgun. By following these steps and obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, you can ensure a safe and legal handgun purchase in the state of Maryland. Remember to always handle firearms responsibly and follow local laws and regulations.
