MARYLAND HQL

Unless otherwise exempt, as of October 1, 2013, a Maryland resident must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License before he/she may purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. Details on exemptions may be found below. You do not need a Handgun Qualification License to own a gun you already have. The Handgun Qualification License is only needed for purchasing, transferring, or renting a regulated firearm after
October 1, 2013.

                   

Exceptions to possession of the HQL License

A Licensed Firearms Manufacturer.

  1. Active law enforcement officer or a person retired in good standing from a law enforcement agency of the United States (Federal Law Enforcement), the State, or a local law enforcement agency of the State.
  2. Active or retired member of the United States Armed Forces or National Guard and possesses a valid military identification card.
  3. A person purchasing, renting or receiving an antique, curio or relic as defined in federal law.
  4. Maryland licensed firearms dealers. (Sole Proprietors
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    CLASS DESCRIPTION:

  This class is approximately 4-hours of classroom instruction plus range time. During the classroom portion of this class, the following topics will be discussed: Application Process, State Firearm Law, Home Firearm Safety and Handgun Mechanisms and Operations. During the range portion of this class, there will be a “live-fire” component in which each student must safely shoot at least 1 round from a handgun. 
   

Students are responsible for all their own range fees. Range fees are not included in the cost of this class.
  • CLASS LENGTH: Approximately 4 Hours + Live fire
  • PRICE PER STUDENT: $150
  • LOCATION: May be subject to change
APPLICATION PROCESS:

After you pass this class successfully and complete your LiveScan fingerprints, you must complete and submit an application for a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) to the Maryland State Police. The application for a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) must be submitted online through the Maryland State Police Online Services Webpage. Completed applications take about 2-4 weeks to process and become active. Once active, you will be mailed your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) in 7-10 business days. 

This class does NOT include LiveScan fingerprints. You cannot submit your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) application until fingerprinting is completed, unless you already possess a Maryland Concealed “Wear and Carry” Permit. Fingerprints must be submitted electronically via an approved LiveScan fingerprint provider. Paper fingerprint cards/ink fingerprints will NOT be accepted.

  • IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
    The training provided in this class is only valid for 3 years. Therefore, you must submit your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) application within 3 years of completing this class. LiveScan fingerprints are only valid for 1 year.