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Maryland Concealed Carry Laws |
Maryland has transitioned to a shall-issue state following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the NYSRPA v Bruen case on June 23rd, 2022. The issuance of concealed weapons permits is overseen by the Secretary of the Maryland State Police.
- A permit, background check, and firearm registration are mandatory for purchasing handguns from private individuals.
- Private firearms transactions involving handguns and assault weapons must go through a licensed dealer or designated law enforcement agency, which conducts a background check.
- Maryland maintains a handgun roster that limits the sale of handguns by dealers and private sellers, with few exceptions.
- Concealed carry is restricted to holders of Maryland Wear/Carry Handgun Permits (WCHP). Open carry was prohibited as of October 1, 2023.
- Applicants for a WCHP must be at least 21 years old (or 18 years old for employment purposes only) and complete a state-approved 16-hour firearms training course that includes live-fire training. Renewals require an additional eight hours of training.
- Permits are available to both residents and non-residents. Certain areas, such as rest areas and state parks, are off-limits.
- Maryland does not recognize concealed carry permits issued by other states.
- Maryland follows common law principles akin to Castle Doctrine, without specific statutory provisions.
- There is a duty to retreat, obliging individuals outside their homes to retreat or avoid danger if feasible before resorting to deadly force.
- Deadly force is justified when defending against immediate threat of serious injury or death, under the conditions that:
- There are reasonable grounds to believe in imminent danger.
- The defender did not provoke the conflict.
- The force used was not excessive given the circumstances.
- According to Maryland Code, individuals are shielded from liability for personal injury or death of an intruder in their dwelling or place of business if force or deadly force is deemed necessary to repel an attack, and such force is reasonable under the circumstances.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Maryland?
Yes, individuals may carry pepper spray or mace as a reasonable precaution against possible danger. However, a person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon, chemical mace, pepper mace, or a tear gas device openly with the intent or purpose of injuring an individual in an unlawful manner. In Baltimore, you must be at least 18 years old and not be a convicted felon to purchase pepper spray.
Is open carry permitted in Maryland?
No. As of October 1st, 2023, open carry is no longer permitted.
Does Maryland have ammunition restrictions?
No. Maryland does not have ammunition restrictions.
Does Maryland allow constitutional carry?
No. Maryland does not allow constitutional carry.
If Maryland requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?
Maryland is now a shall-issue state.
What is the minimum age in Maryland to get a concealed carry permit?
You must be at least 21 years old (or 18 years old for employment purposes only) to get a concealed carry permit in Maryland.
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Maryland with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
No. A person may not carry weapons other than handguns, even with a WCHP.
Does Maryland have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No more than 10 rounds. A person may not manufacture, sell, offer for sale, purchase, receive, or transfer a detachable magazine that has a capacity of more than 10 rounds of ammunition for a firearm. Possession is not addressed in the statute. There are exemptions for .22 caliber rifles with tubular magazines and for law enforcement officers (LEOs) and retired LEOs.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Maryland?
Yes, except as noted below, stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit. The minimum age to purchase is 18 years old, and a background check is required to verify that the purchaser has not been convicted of specific crimes. However, it is illegal to carry a dangerous weapon unless certain conditions are met. Additionally, Tasers and stun guns are prohibited in specific locations such as public schools and certain public buildings in Baltimore.
Can You Carry or Possess a Firearm on Hotel Property in Maryland?
An innkeeper may refuse lodging or services to individuals believed to possess dangerous property like firearms or explosives. Policies vary by hotel, so it's best to inquire directly.
Can You Carry a Concealed Handgun in a Vehicle in Maryland?
Without a Maryland WCHP, transporting firearms is restricted. Handguns can only be transported between residences, to a repair shop, a shooting event, or between a residence and place of business under certain conditions.
Can You Carry a Concealed Firearm at Roadside Rest Areas in Maryland?
No, unless securely stored within a vehicle.
Does Maryland Have Laws Regarding Storing Firearms in Private Vehicles in Employee Parking Lots?
Maryland state law does not address this, but employers may have specific policies.
Can You Carry a Concealed Firearm in State/National Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Maryland?
No for parks and forests. Yes, with a Maryland WCHP, for Wildlife Management Areas.
Can You Carry a Concealed Firearm in Bars and Restaurants That Serve Alcohol in Maryland?
As of October 1st, 2023, locations licensed to serve alcohol or cannabis for on-site consumption are prohibited from allowing concealed carry.
Non-Resident Permitting?
Does Maryland issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
Yes. Maryland grants permits to non-residents.
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?
Does Maryland allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No. Maryland does not permit the public access to concealed carry registry information.
Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?
Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Maryland?
No. There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Maryland.
Driver's License Linked to Carry Permit?
Is my Maryland driver’s license linked to my Maryland carry permit?
No. Your Maryland driver’s license is not linked to your Maryland wear/carry handgun permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry permit holder immediately when they run your driver’s license. However, LEOs may have access to other databases where they can obtain this information.
Preemption?
Does Maryland have preemption laws related to concealed carry?
Yes. There is full state preemption of all gun laws. However, municipalities may regulate firearms and ammunition in, or within 100 yards of, a park, church, school, public building and other place of public assembly.
Red Flag Law?
Does Maryland have a red flag law?
Yes, Maryland has a red flag law. A variety of people, including family members, cohabitants, medical professionals and law enforcement are allowed to petition for an order to surrender to law enforcement authorities any firearm and ammunition in the respondent’s possession; and prohibit the respondent from purchasing or possessing any firearm or ammunition for the duration of the interim &/or final extreme risk protection order.
Brandishing?
Does Maryland state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Maryland law. However, a person may not intentionally cause or attempt to cause serious physical injury to another. A person may not commit an assault with a firearm, including a handgun, antique firearm, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled shotgun or short-barreled rifle.
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?
Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Maryland?
No. Not mentioned in state statutes.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?
Does Maryland have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
Not while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Responsibility Note:
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Maryland? Yes. Private firearms sellers must process transfers of handguns through a licensed dealer or designated law enforcement agency, who are required to conduct a background check. In addition, no regulated firearm transfers may be made to any person whom the private seller knows or has a reasonable cause to believe is a prohibited purchaser under state law. Private sellers of regulated firearms must also forward completed transaction information to the secretary of state's office within seven days after a regulated firearm transfer.
Maryland Permit Exempts from Background Check? Does my current Maryland concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? No.
Purchase Permits? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Maryland? Yes, for handguns. A valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is required to purchase, rent or transfer ownership of a regulated firearm. In addition, a person may not purchase more than one regulated firearm in a 30-day period, although there are several exemptions.
Waiting Period? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Maryland? Yes. Seven days.
Handgun Registration? Do handguns need to be registered in Maryland? Yes, for handguns. New Maryland residents must register all regulated firearms with the Secretary of the Maryland Department of State Police within 90 days after establishing residency.
Approved Handgun Roster? Does Maryland have a roster of handguns approved for sale? No person may manufacture, sell or offer for sale in the state a handgun manufactured after January 1, 1985, that is not included on the handgun roster.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Maryland? 21 years old.
Possess a Handgun on My Private Property Without a Permit? Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? Yes. Anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm may possess a firearm on real estate that the person owns or leases, where the person resides, or within the confines of a business establishment that the person owns or leases.
To purchase, rent or transfer ownership of a regulated firearm in Maryland, which includes handguns, you must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL). You must apply for this license online through the Maryland State Police web portal. Physical applications are not accepted.
- Within 3 years prior to obtaining an HQL, an applicant must complete a Firearms Safety Training Course taught by a state-approved Qualified Handgun Instructor. This training course may be waived under certain conditions.
- Fingerprinting is required unless you already possess a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit. Complete your online HQL application and pay the necessary fees.
- Complete the Maryland State Police Application and Affidavit to Purchase a Regulated Firearm (MSP 77R) Form using the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.
- Bring both the application number and PIN number to a Maryland State Police Barracks or a Maryland Regulated Firearm Dealer to finish the application process.
- After submitting your application, you must wait 7 days. Upon approval, you can purchase or transfer ownership of a firearm through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL).
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years old (an applicant between 18 and 21 years of age may only be issued a wear and carry permit to possess a regulated firearm required for employment).
- Have successfully completed required firearms training, within 2 years, prior to submitting an application or meet a training exemption.
- Not have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor for which a sentence of imprisonment for more than 1 year has been imposed; or convicted of a criminal offense for which you could have been sentenced to more than 2 years incarceration (or has been pardoned or granted relief under 19 U.S.C. Section 925(c)).
- Not have been convicted of a crime involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance.
- Not be presently an alcoholic, addict, or habitual user of a controlled dangerous substance unless under legitimate medical direction.
- If under age 30, have no adjudications of delinquency in a juvenile court for any act that would be a felony or “crime of violence” if committed by an adult or for any misdemeanor carrying a statutory penalty of 2 years or more, and have never been committed to any detention, training or correctional institution for more than 1 year as a juvenile.
- Based on an investigation, not have exhibited a propensity for violence or instability that may reasonably render the person’s possession of a handgun a danger to the person or others.
- Meet federal law requirements.
*Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Maryland.
- Initial Permit $75 (Starting 10/01/23 it goes up to $125)
- Renewal $50 (Starting 10/01/23 it goes up to $75)
Initial permits expire on the last day of the holder’s birth month following 2 years after the date the permit is issued and may be renewed for successive periods of 3 years each.
90 days
Maryland will grant permits to non-residents. Non-residents use the same process as residents.
You must notify the Licensing Division of address changes, in writing, within 30 days of any change. You must mail this change to: Maryland State Police Licensing Division 1111 Reisterstown Road Pikesville, MD 21208 ATTN: Handgun Permit Unit
You must submit a notarized letter advising the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the permit. Submit a $10 check or money order and one passport-sized photograph taken within the last 30 days. If you are a security guard, private detective, armored car guard or special police officer, also provide a company letter from your current employer verifying your employment.
Moving to Maryland and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply? Maryland issues resident and non-resident permits, so you can apply for your permit at any time. Moving from Maryland and have a Maryland resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Maryland permit remains valid? If a person with a Maryland wear/carry handgun permit establishes residency in another state, the permit is valid until it expires provided you submit the above referenced Name/Address change form.
Complete a state-approved firearm training course within 2 years of application or meet a training exemption.
Get fingerprints taken at an Electronic Fingerprint Processing Center authorized by the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
Complete your application using the online licensing portal. As of October 1, 2019, paper applications will be rejected and returned to the applicant with instructions to submit the Wear and Carry Permit application via the licensing portal. You will need the following:
- A copy of your firearms training certificate;
- 2 passport-style color photographs of yourself from the past 30 days;
- Electronic fingerprints. Pay the fee.
You will receive application status updates via email as your application progresses and will be notified within 90 days of submittal of a complete application whether your application has been approved or denied.
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- Public schools (Criminal Law § 4-102)
- Child care centers, except for small centers located in residences (CMR 13a.16.10.04)
- State parks (CMR 8.07.06.04)
- State and national forests (CMR 8.07.01.04)
- Chesapeake Forest Lands (CMR 8.01.07.14)
- State Highway rest areas (display and discharge prohibited) (CMR 11.04.07.12)
- Commercial aircraft (CMR § 5-1008)
- Lodging establishments where the innkeeper has notified an individual, either orally or in writing, that the establishment refuses to provide further lodging (CMR § 15-203)
- Dredge boats (CMR §4–1013)
- Community Adult Rehabilitation Centers (CMR 12.02.03.10)
- In or around State-owned public buildings and grounds (CMR 04.05.01.03)
- Any building where the Senate or the House has a chamber (CMR §2–1702)
- Any building or grounds where a member, officer or employee of the General Assembly has an official office or any Joint Hearing Room (CMR 04.05.01.01)
- Demonstration at a public place or in a vehicle within 1,000 feet of a demonstration; if prohibited by a local municipality, within 100 yards of or in a park, church, school, public building and other place of public assembly (CMR §4–208)
- Any place while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (CMR §5–314)
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.
- Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Beginning 10/01/23, locations licensed to sell or dispense alcohol or cannabis for on-site consumption will be prohibited. (Preliminary injunction granted on 9/29).
- Carry in roadside rest areas? No.
- Carry in WMAs? Yes. Only with a Maryland WCHP.
- Carry in places of worship? There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
There are no limitations on the types of knives you can own in Maryland. You cannot concealed carry a throwing star, dirk, switchblade, gravity knife, or Bowie knife. Although there is no law against open carry of these knives, it is illegal to carry them "with the intent to harm someone." All knives are banned from Maryland schools. Maryland municipalities may have additional restrictions.
Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Maryland?
Yes. [Nat. Resources Code § 10-408 (d)]
I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Maryland, but can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
There is no known statute in Maryland making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Maryland?
Yes, but only for personal protection while bow hunting in Deer Management Region A. The Department may not prohibit a licensed bow hunter from openly carrying a handgun that the hunter is otherwise authorized to carry under § 4-203 of the Criminal Law Article if the bow hunter is at least 21 years old and does not use the handgun to kill wildlife wounded by a vertical bow or crossbow. [Nat. Resources Code § 10-408(b)(2)]
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Maryland?
Yes. A person may not interfere intentionally with the lawful taking of wildlife by another person on private land that is owned by another person or in a hunting area on land managed by the Department. [Nat. Resources Code § 10-422]