Expert Guide to Obtaining Your Concealed Carry Permit in Baltimore

If you live in Maryland and care about staying safe, you might be thinking about getting a concealed carry permit—especially if you’re in Baltimore. Let’s face it, Maryland’s gun laws can be tough to figure out. It’s not as simple as just filling out a form. That’s why we created this helpful and easy-to-follow guide to walk you through the process.

Thanks to the expert instructors at STA Security Training Classes, this guide will show you everything you need to know to get your concealed carry permit, from start to finish.

Introduction: Know Before You Conceal

Before you grab your hoodie and think you’re ready to carry, here are a few things you should know:

• Maryland is a “may issue” state. Even if you meet all the rules, you’re not guaranteed to get a permit.
• It’s important to understand the state and local laws. If you don’t follow them, you could get into big trouble.
• The permit is officially called a “Wear and Carry Permit” and lets you legally carry a handgun, but only in certain situations.

This guide will explain the laws, who can apply, how to apply, what documents you need, and what happens if your application gets denied. Think of it as your carry permit playbook.

Section 1: Understanding Maryland’s Gun Laws

Before you apply, you need to know the rules. Maryland’s gun laws are more strict than in many other states.

• Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry: Both types require a valid permit, and open carry is very rare in Maryland.
• “May Issue” State: The Maryland State Police make the final decision, even if you meet all the requirements.
• Law Updates: In 2022, a court decision made it a little easier to get a permit by removing the “good and substantial reason” rule.
• Stay Informed: Laws change often. Sign up for alerts from the Maryland State Police or ask your training provider for updates.

Section 2: Who Can Apply for a Concealed Carry Permit in Baltimore?

Not everyone in Maryland can get a permit. Here’s who can apply:

1. You must be at least 21 years old (18 if applying for a job-related reason).
2. You must live in Maryland or work in the state.
3. You cannot have a felony conviction or pending criminal charges.
4. You must not have a history of mental illness that could be a danger.
5. You must have no restraining or protective orders against you.
6. You must complete certified firearms training.
7. You must be able to explain why you need to carry (like personal safety or for work).
8. You cannot be using illegal drugs or abusing prescription meds.
9. You shouldn’t have been denied a permit before unless your situation has changed.
10. You must get fingerprinted for a background check.

Section 3: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Maryland Concealed Carry Permit

Ready to apply? Follow these steps carefully:

1. Make sure you meet all the eligibility rules listed above.
2. Take a certified firearms safety training course (at least 16 hours).
3. Gather all needed documents (see Section 5).
4. Sign up for a MyLicense account at https://emdsp.mdsp.org.
5. Fill out and submit the online application form.
6. Get fingerprinted at a LiveScan provider approved by the State Police.
7. Wait as your application is reviewed (this can take up to 90 days).
8. Respond to any questions or requests from State Police.
9. Once approved, you’ll get your permit in the mail. If denied, you’ll get info on how to appeal.
10. Always carry your permit and a valid photo ID when you’re carrying your gun.

It’s not easy, but it’s totally doable—especially with the right support and training.

Section 4: Required Concealed Carry Training and Certification

Good training is one of the most important parts of the process. Maryland requires you to complete state-certified instruction before they’ll approve your permit.

You’ll need at least 16 hours of training that includes:

• How to safely use a firearm
• Maryland’s handgun and carry laws
• Conflict resolution and when to avoid using force
• Laws about when force is allowed and when it’s not

You also have to complete a live-fire part of the training to show you know how to handle a gun safely.

When it’s time to renew your permit, you’ll need to take an 8-hour refresher course.

Choose a certified training provider like STA Security Training Classes. Their instructors are trained to make sure you learn everything Maryland wants you to know—and how to pass your test.

Pro Tip: When picking a training course, look for one that:

• Is certified by the state
• Includes live-fire training
• Covers important laws and rules
• Has a high pass rate
• Has good reviews from past students

Need help finding the right class? Call STA today at (443) 702-7891 and we’ll help you find one that fits your schedule and experience level.

Section 5: Documents You’ll Need for Your Application

You’ll want to keep everything organized in one place. Here are the documents Maryland requires:

• A valid photo ID (like a driver’s license)
• Proof you live in Maryland (like a utility bill or lease)
• Certificate showing you completed firearms training
• A passport-style photo
• Receipt from your fingerprinting session
• A short written statement explaining why you need to carry
• Proof of employment, if that’s part of your reason
• Two or three letters from people saying you are responsible and trustworthy (recommended)
• Court documents if you’ve had legal trouble before
• Copies of any other firearm licenses you have

If anything is missing or incorrect, your application could be denied or delayed.

Section 6: Common Reasons for Permit Denial

Even good applicants get denied sometimes. Here’s what to avoid:

• Having a felony conviction or pending charges
• Failing to explain your reason for wanting to carry
• Not finishing the correct training or using an expired certificate
• Skipping the fingerprinting step or using the wrong provider
• Sending unclear or wrong documents
• Having mental health concerns reported to the police
• Currently having a protective or restraining order
• A history of drug use or recent DUIs
• Having open court issues like warrants
• Making mistakes or typos on your form

You can avoid many of these problems by working with a training provider like STA. We help you through all the paperwork and details so you don’t miss anything important.

Section 7: Baltimore Concealed Carry Permit Renewal

Got your permit? Great! But don’t forget to renew it so you can keep carrying legally.

• First-time permits: Good for 2 years
• Renewals: Last for 3 years each time

What you’ll need to renew:

• An updated photo ID
• Proof you completed the 8-hour refresher training
• Your renewal application (use your MyLicense account)
• A renewal fee (usually under $100)

Start your renewal at least 90 days before your permit expires. If you wait too long, you may have to go through the whole process again from the beginning.