The COVID-19 pandemic has altered many processes and procedures associated with group gatherings. In an effort to better serve the citizens of Maryland and taking into consideration the health and safety of our partner Qualified Handgun Instructors (QHIs) and customers, the Maryland Department of State Police, Licensing Division (MDSPLD) has re-evaluated the classroom instruction requirement for training. Effective immediately, the MDSPLD is approving classroom training via two-way virtual platforms. This change in policy does not alleviate any of the training requirements set below.
QHIs electing to participate in virtual training will require a real time, bi-directional audio and visual connection between the QHI and the students. Prerecorded presentations of any form are not acceptable.
The Firearms Safety Training Course must be instructed by a QHI and shall consist of a minimum of 4 hours of instruction, and include the following minimum curricula:
- State Firearm Law. Overview of the State firearm laws, including discussion of what constitutes a regulated firearm, how to properly purchase or transfer a firearm, where allowed to carry or transport a firearm, when necessary to possess a carry permit, who is prohibited from possessing firearms and State law relating to minors, permissible levels of force and use of deadly force.
- Home Firearm Safety. Overview of handgun and firearm safety in the home, including discussion of access to minors, locking and storing of firearms and use of safety devices, such as secure lock boxes.
- Handgun Mechanisms and Operation. Overview of the proper operation and safe handling of a handgun, including cleaning and maintenance, the loading and unloading of ammunition and the differences between revolvers and semi-automatic handguns.