Mastering Maryland’s Wear & Carry Permit: Essential Training and Qualification Guide

What is a Maryland Wear & Carry Permit?

If you’re wondering what this permit actually is, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

Definition and Why It Matters

The Maryland Wear & Carry Permit is a license issued by the Maryland State Police. It lets a person legally carry a handgun, either openly or concealed, in public.

This is not the same as a Handgun Qualification License (HQL). The HQL only lets you buy or rent a handgun. If you want to carry one with you, you need the Wear & Carry Permit.

Who Needs One?

• Private citizens who want to protect themselves
• Small business owners who handle cash or valuables
• Private detectives and licensed security guards
• Armored truck workers
• Certified firearms instructors

If you work in a job or have a lifestyle where being able to protect yourself is important, this permit may be right for you.

Common Misunderstandings

• “If I have an HQL, I can carry a gun in public.” – No, only the Wear & Carry Permit allows that.
• “I have a permit from Virginia, so I’m fine in Maryland.” – Not true. Maryland has its own rules and doesn’t accept many other state permits.
• “No one gets approved.” – Not anymore! Since a 2022 Supreme Court ruling, Maryland must issue permits to qualified people.

Are You Eligible? Maryland’s Permit Requirements

You need to meet certain rules before applying. Here’s what’s required:

1. You must be 21 or older
2. No felony convictions or serious criminal history
3. No history of substance abuse or mental health issues
4. Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
5. No active protective or restraining orders against you
6. Complete 16 hours of handgun training
7. Understand Maryland firearm and self-defense laws
8. Submit your electronic fingerprints
9. Provide a “good and substantial reason” (this still gets reviewed, but it’s easier now)
10. Pass a live-fire shooting test with a certified instructor

In short: Follow the law, stay safe, and take the right training.

What Does the Required Training Cover?

Watching action movies doesn’t count as training. Maryland wants to make sure you know what you’re doing before carrying a weapon.

How Many Hours Are Required?

• 16 hours for first-time applicants
• 8 hours for renewals (every two years)

What You’ll Learn

1. How to safely use and handle a firearm
2. Maryland gun laws and self-defense rules
3. How to avoid and handle conflict
4. How to take care of your firearm
5. The basics of shooting and aiming
6. Practice drills, both dry and live-fire
7. Understanding when and how to use a gun in defense
8. How to legally store and move your weapon
9. How to stay calm and make good choices under pressure

The training must be provided by an instructor approved by the Maryland State Police, like the ones at STA Security Training Classes.

Live-Fire Qualification – What to Expect

This is where you’ll actually shoot your firearm under supervision. It must be done safely and correctly.

The Basics

• Shoot at least 25 rounds
• Use distances of 3, 7, and 15 yards
• Your shots must land on a silhouette-style target
• You need to hit scoring zones with at least 70% of your shots

This test is about more than just aim. You’ll also be judged on safety and how well you can handle stress.

10 Great Tips to Help You Pass

1. Practice often with the firearm you plan to carry
2. Pick a caliber you can control, like a 9mm or .380
3. Focus on your stance and grip first—your aim will follow
4. Work with a skilled, certified instructor
5. Practice under timed conditions, like during the test
6. Use dependable gear and quality ammunition
7. Dry fire at home (check that it’s unloaded—twice!)
8. Wear proper hearing and eye protection
9. Do a few warm-up rounds before the test starts
10. Stay calm, breathe, and trust your preparation

With training and confidence, anyone can pass—even if you’re new to firearms.

Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide

Finished your training? Great! Now it’s time to officially apply.

Before You Apply: What You Need

1. Your certificate from a licensed training provider
2. A clear digital photo (no selfies)
3. Your fingerprint receipt from a certified provider
4. A completed application through the Maryland State Police website
5. Payment: $75 for new permits, $50 for renewals

Double-check your application. Mistakes can slow things down.

How to Apply

1. Go to the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal: https://emdsp.mdsp.org/egov/Home.aspx
2. Create an account
3. Upload your documents and fill in all required fields
4. Submit the application and make your payment online

Tip: Try to apply within 30 days of finishing your training so your documents don’t expire.

What Happens After You Apply?

1. The Maryland State Police will review your application
2. They will run a background and fingerprint check
3. They might contact you if more information is needed
4. If approved, you’ll get your permit in the mail (can take up to 90 days)
5. If denied, you can appeal or request a review

Most applicants get their permit within 45 to 60 days—quicker if they apply correctly.

Why Train with STA Security Training Classes?

There are many training programs out there, but not all offer the same level of quality. Here’s what makes STA Security Training Classes stand out:

• Certified instructors with real experience
• Access to a professional shooting range
• Weekend and evening training options
• Small class sizes for more personal help
• Friendly and helpful instructors who make learning easy

We’ve trained students from all walks of life—from new gun owners to professionals. Our goal is to make sure you leave confident, informed, and ready.

Call us at (443) 702-7891 or visit www.securitytrainingclasses.com to book your class.

Final Thoughts: Your Safety Starts with Smart Training

Getting your Wear & Carry Permit isn’t just about owning something. It’s about being ready, responsible, and well-trained.

By understanding each step—from training to application—you’re taking a smart and powerful step to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Ready to get started? Sign up for our next Wear & Carry class today. We’ll guide you through everything and help you every step of the way.

Stay safe, stay smart, and carry with confidence!

STA Security Training Classes
Phone: (443) 702-7891
Website: www.securitytrainingclasses.com
Proudly serving Baltimore, Columbia, Annapolis, and all of Maryland.