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Maryland Handgun Permit Training
MPSLP offers the state-required firearms safety training for both the Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) and the Maryland Wear & Carry Permit — taught by a certified USCCA instructor.
Two Licenses, Two Courses
Which Training Do You Need?
Handgun Qualification License (HQL)
Required before any Maryland resident can purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. The HQL is issued by the Maryland State Police and is valid for 10 years. If you are plannin to take the wear and carry class, you do not need to take the HQL class also as the HQL information is covered in the wear and carry class.
MPSLP instructor fee
$100
+ State fee: $50 — Paid separately to MDSP — not to MPSLP
Wear & Carry Permit (New Applicant)
Following the Supreme Court's Bruen decision, Maryland is now a shall-issue state. If you meet the qualifications, you will be approved. The permit requires a 16-hour training course, LiveScan fingerprints, and a background check.
MPSLP instructor fee
$250
+ State fee: $125 — Paid separately to MDSP — not to MPSLP
Wear & Carry Permit (Renewal)
Required to renew your Maryland Wear & Carry Permit. The 8-hour renewal course covers updated use-of-force law, situational awareness, and range qualification.
MPSLP instructor fee
$150
+ State fee: $75 — Paid separately to MDSP — not to MPSLP
Purchase & Receive Handguns
Handgun Qualification License (HQL)
Before a Maryland resident can purchase, rent, or receive a handgun, you must obtain an HQL from the Maryland State Police — or qualify for an exemption. The HQL is valid for 10 years.
What the 4-Hour Training Covers
Maryland Firearm Law
State firearm laws, regulated firearms, purchase/transfer procedures, permitted carrying locations, carry permit requirements, prohibited individuals, laws regarding minors, and permissible use of deadly force.
Handgun Mechanisms & Safe Handling
Safe storage, operation, and handling of a handgun — including loading, unloading, and clearing malfunctions.
Live-Fire Qualification
Practical live-fire exercise demonstrating safe and proficient handling of a handgun under instructor supervision.
Suicide Prevention
Awareness and prevention of firearm-related suicide, including safe storage practices to reduce access by at-risk individuals.
Prerequisites & Requirements
Age
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Maryland Resident
Must be a Maryland resident or have a principal place of business in Maryland.
No Disqualifying Factors
Must not be prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm under Maryland or federal law.
LiveScan Fingerprints
Must submit fingerprints through an approved LiveScan vendor. MPSLP ORI: MD920390Z.
State Application Fees
Fees paid to MDSP. Does not include fingerprint fees. Non-refundable.
Processing Timeline
Who Needs an HQL
Training Exemptions
Carry a Handgun in Maryland
Wear & Carry Permit
Following the Supreme Court's ruling in NYSRPA v. Bruen (2022), Maryland operates as a shall-issue state. If you meet the qualifications, MDSP must approve your application — no 'good and substantial reason' is required. The permit process includes a background investigation, LiveScan fingerprints, and completion of an approved 16-hour training course.
Who May Apply
Application Requirements
16-Hour Training
Must complete an approved 16-hour firearms safety training course from a certified instructor. MPSLP provides this course.
LiveScan Fingerprints
Must submit fingerprints through an approved LiveScan vendor within 30 days of application. MPSLP ORI: MD920390Z.
Background Investigation
MDSP conducts a background investigation. Under shall-issue, qualified applicants will be approved.
No Disqualifying Factors
Must not be prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm under Maryland or federal law. No subjective 'good reason' requirement.
State Application Fees
Fees paid to MDSP. Does not include fingerprint fees. Non-refundable. Active/retired MD law enforcement officers are exempt from the application fee.
Processing Timeline
Permit Renewal
Wear & Carry Permits must be renewed every 2–3 years. Renewal requires completion of an approved 8-hour renewal training course. MPSLP offers the 8-hour renewal course for $150 (+ $75 state fee paid to MDSP).
Schedule
Upcoming Handgun Permit Classes
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Started?
MPSLP provides HQL (4-hour), Wear & Carry new (16-hour), and Wear & Carry renewal (8-hour) training through our certified USCCA instructor. Seats are limited — register and pay online today.