Maryland Wear & Carry Permit: A Step-by-Step Application Walkthrough

Applying for a Maryland Wear & Carry permit is very doable — it just has more steps than most people expect. Here's the path my students follow.

1. Complete the required training

Maryland requires an approved 16-hour initial training course (or the 8-hour renewal course if you already hold a permit). Training covers Maryland firearms law, handgun safety and mechanics, situational awareness, and a live-fire qualification at an approved range. My MD Wear & Carry Initial course meets or exceeds the Maryland State Police requirements, and range fees, gun rental, and ammunition are included.

2. Get fingerprinted

You'll need electronic fingerprints from a Maryland-approved livescan vendor. Bring your ID, and tell them it's for a Maryland Wear & Carry application — they'll use the correct agency code. Keep the receipt with your tracking number.

3. Apply through the MSP Licensing Portal

Applications go through the Maryland State Police licensing portal online. You'll upload your training certificate, fingerprint tracking info, and pay the application fee. Answer everything completely and honestly — incomplete applications are the #1 cause of delays.

4. Wait for processing

Processing times vary through the year. Maryland law sets a review window for the State Police, and many applicants hear back within a few months. You'll receive updates through the portal.

5. After approval

Your permit arrives electronically. Note the expiration date — initial permits are typically valid for a shorter first term, with longer renewal terms after that — and put a reminder on your calendar 90 days ahead. When it's time, the renewal course is a single 8-hour day.

Requirements and fees change — always confirm current details with the Maryland State Police before applying. Have questions about any step? Ask me directly — helping students through the application is part of what I do.