Question 1

Can I continue carrying if my permit expires while my renewal is being processed?

Accepted Answer

If your properly completed renewal application was submitted at least 14 days before your current permit expired, Maryland State Police permits you to continue carrying while a decision on the renewal is pending.If an application is returned as incomplete and is not properly resubmitted within the required timeframe, this protection may no longer apply.

Question 2

What happens if my Wear & Carry Permit expires before I renew it?

Accepted Answer

If your permit expires before you renew it, Maryland State Police requires you to apply as a new applicant. This includes completing the 16-hour training requirement and obtaining new LiveScan fingerprints.

Question 3

Do I need new fingerprints when renewing my Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Maryland State Police does not currently require new LiveScan fingerprints for a timely Wear & Carry renewal.

Question 4

What training is required for renewal?

Accepted Answer

Unless exempt, you must complete an 8-hour firearms safety training course and successfully complete the required live-fire qualification.You will receive a completed and signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet for submission with your renewal application.

Question 5

When should I start renewing my Maryland Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Maryland State Police recommends starting the renewal process 90 days before your current permit expires.

Question 6

What do I need when applying for an original Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Maryland State Police currently requires original applicants to complete the online application and provide required documentation, including:• LiveScan fingerprint receipt• Completed and signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet• Color passport-style photograph• Required application information and feesAdditional documentation may be required depending on the applicant's circumstances.

Question 7

How long is Wear & Carry training valid before I apply?

Accepted Answer

Unless exempt, the required firearms safety training must generally have been successfully completed within 2 years before submitting the Wear & Carry application.

Question 8

Does Alpha Defense offer a hybrid Maryland Wear & Carry course?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alpha Defense offers a hybrid training option that combines live, instructor-led virtual classroom instruction with an in-person range session.The virtual classroom portion is conducted in real time with two-way audio and video communication. Pre-recorded lessons do not satisfy Maryland's virtual classroom requirements.IMPORTANT: The Maryland Wear & Carry course is NOT 100% online. Students must attend the required in-person range session and successfully complete the live-fire qualification.

Question 9

Is there a shooting qualification for the Maryland Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Standard Wear & Carry applicants must demonstrate firearm safety and proficiency by completing a Maryland-approved live-fire qualification.For standard applicants, the course consists of at least 25 rounds, fired from no farther than 15 yards, with a minimum passing score of 70%.Different qualification requirements apply to certain designated security personnel.

Question 10

How many hours are required to renew a Maryland Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Unless exempt, renewal applicants must complete at least 8 hours of firearms safety training.

Question 11

How many hours of training are required for an original Maryland Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Unless exempt, an original applicant must complete at least 16 hours of approved firearms safety training provided by a Maryland Qualified Handgun Instructor.

Question 12

Do I have to take another class to renew my HQL?

Accepted Answer

No. Maryland State Police currently does not require new fingerprints or firearms safety training to renew an active HQL. The renewal should be submitted at least 14 days before the HQL expires.

Question 13

How long is a Maryland HQL valid?

Accepted Answer

A Maryland HQL is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.

Question 14

Are there exemptions from HQL training?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Maryland provides several exemptions from the HQL training requirement, including certain individuals who have completed an approved firearms safety course, qualified handgun instructors, honorably discharged members of the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard, and individuals who lawfully own a regulated firearm.Applicants should verify their individual exemption status with the Maryland State Police.

Question 15

How long is my HQL training valid before I apply?

Accepted Answer

Required HQL firearms safety training must generally be completed within 3 years before submitting the HQL application.

Question 16

Do I need an HQL just to shoot at a gun range?

Accepted Answer

No. An HQL is not required simply to fire a handgun at a shooting range.

Question 17

Does the HQL course include live fire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The HQL training includes a practical firearm-handling demonstration with a live-fire component. Firing is not required beyond 15 yards.

Question 18

How many hours of training are required for an HQL?

Accepted Answer

Maryland requires a minimum of 4 hours of firearms safety training for new HQL applicants who are not exempt from the training requirement.

Question 19

What is a Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL)?

Accepted Answer

Unless exempt, a person generally must possess a valid Maryland Handgun Qualification License before purchasing, renting, or receiving a handgun in Maryland..

Question 20

WHERE DO I APPLY?

Accepted Answer

Maryland HQL applications are submitted through Maryland State Police eMDSP Online Services.Maryland Wear & Carry applications and renewals are submitted through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.Alpha Defense Training Group can provide required firearms instruction and guidance regarding the application process, but final licensing decisions are made by the Maryland State Police.IMPORTANT NOTICEFirearm laws, regulations, application procedures, fees, and eligibility requirements may change. Information provided by Alpha Defense Training Group is for general educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice. Students should verify current requirements with the Maryland State Police before submitting an application.

Question 21

Does completing an Alpha Defense course guarantee that I will receive an HQL or Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

No. Successful completion of training satisfies applicable training requirements but does not guarantee issuance of any license or permit. All applications are reviewed and approved or denied by the appropriate government agency.

Question 22

Can I legally transport a handgun in Maryland without a Wear & Carry Permit?

Accepted Answer

Maryland law permits handgun transportation under certain circumstances and subject to specific restrictions. Generally, the handgun should be unloaded and transported in an enclosed case or enclosed holster, with ammunition separate from the handgun.Because Maryland law limits the circumstances under which a handgun may be transported without a Wear & Carry Permit, individuals should review current Maryland law and Maryland State Police guidance before transporting a handgun.

Question 23

Do I need to use an approved LiveScan fingerprint provider?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Maryland applicants who are required to submit fingerprints must use an authorized LiveScan provider. Out-of-state LiveScan providers are not approved for Maryland firearm licensing applications.

Question 24

Does Maryland recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

Accepted Answer

No. Maryland does not recognize handgun carry permits or concealed carry licenses issued by other states.

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