How to Get a License to Carry a Gun
Laws for carrying a gun vary from state to state and within counties. Vermont and Alaska do not require a license for concealed nor unconcealed, or "open carry," firearms. Illinois and Wisconsin allow neither concealed nor unconcealed carrying. Other states are categorized as "shall issue" states where the issuing agency will give a license to one who is not a felon or is mentally retarded, or "may issue" states where issuing officials have discretion.
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Things You'll Need
- Application form from state licensing agency
- Proof of residency and age
- Certification of good moral character
- Demonstration of justifiable need
- Certification of having passed a firearms knowledge and safety course Certification of having passed a firing test
- Fees
Instructions
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Find out who and where your state's or county's licensing authority is. In Pennsylvania, for example, it is the County Sheriff's Office, while in others it could be the State Police or, in still others, the courts may need to approve the license.
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Get a copy and read through the firearms laws of your state, not only to learn about the processes and requirements of getting a license to carry but also to live by such statutes such as the gun's usage in self-defense and its carrying in prohibited places.
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Secure and properly fill out an application form, being careful not to skip any question or provide false information. Failure to comply may lead to outright disqualification. Be prepared to show proof of residency and age qualification as required.
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Take a Firearms Knowledge and Safety Course from a qualified institution and secure a certification thereof. Be prepared to pass written and hands-on tests on these and a test on firing conducted by a range officer.
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If required by your state, be able to demonstrate a justifiable need for you to carry the gun, submitting documented evidence if possible.
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If required, get a certification of good moral character in the manner required such as "with signatures from three respectable citizens who have known the applicant for three or more years."
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Submit the application form and all other required documents, and pay the fees.
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Tips & Warnings
If you want to carry your gun in a state you want to visit, check whether that state's laws allow reciprocity to those with permits in your state. If you get a permit, get more extensive training than required by your state's laws since carrying a gun carries with it many other responsibilities. In being able to get a license who you know is sometimes important in some states.
Even if you have a license to carry a gun, you can be liable if you threaten to use it or carry it while you are under the influence of liquor. Permits to carry have expiration dates and can be revoked if firearms laws are not followed, such as for example carrying a gun in a school or courthouse.
