If you plan to apply for a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit, completing your required firearms training before submitting your application is an essential step. Maryland has specific training, qualification, fingerprinting, and documentation requirements that you must understand before beginning the process.
Yes, you can—and generally must—complete Maryland Wear And Carry Training before submitting your initial permit application. The Maryland State Police (MSP) requires most first-time applicants to complete an approved 16-hour firearms safety training course with a Qualified Handgun Instructor before applying. You must also meet the live-fire qualification requirement and submit the appropriate documentation.
Planning ahead helps you avoid incomplete applications, unnecessary delays, and confusion about the next steps. With training from MSP Firearms Training, you can work toward meeting the state’s requirements and prepare for the permit application process with greater confidence.
Why Should You Complete Training Before Applying?
Completing your training first allows you to prepare the documents required for your application. Maryland’s permitting process is not simply a matter of filling out an online form. You must satisfy the applicable training requirements, complete fingerprinting, and provide supporting documentation through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.
When you finish an approved course before submitting your application, you can gather your qualification records and other required materials in advance. This helps you reduce avoidable errors and move through the application process more efficiently.
Keep in mind that completing training does not automatically guarantee permit approval. Maryland State Police reviews your application, qualifications, and background before making a decision. You must receive your permit before legally carrying a handgun under that permit.
What Does Maryland Wear And Carry Training Include?
For an initial application, Maryland requires 16 hours of instruction from a Qualified Handgun Instructor recognized by the Maryland State Police. The course combines classroom education with practical firearm safety and proficiency requirements.
Your training generally covers:
- Maryland firearm laws: Understand applicable regulations, restrictions, and the legal responsibilities associated with carrying a handgun.
- Home firearm safety: Learn safe storage practices and ways to prevent unauthorized access.
- Handgun mechanisms and operation: Develop an understanding of handgun components, safe handling, and proper operation.
- Live-fire qualification: Demonstrate safe firearm handling and shooting proficiency under the required course standards.
For most civilian applicants, the live-fire qualification requires firing at least 25 rounds from distances no greater than 15 yards and achieving a minimum score of 70% accuracy. Designated security personnel must complete a different qualification course with at least 50 rounds and the applicable scoring requirements.
Successful completion matters because your instructor must provide the required signed qualification documentation for your application.
How to Complete Your Training Before Applying
Following a clear sequence can help you prepare your application without overlooking important requirements.
1. Choose an Approved Training Provider
Start by selecting a Qualified Handgun Instructor registered with the Maryland State Police. Not every firearms course satisfies the state’s Wear and Carry Permit requirements, so verify that the course meets the current standards for an initial application.
You can explore Maryland Wear and Carry training with MSP Firearms Training to learn about available training options and upcoming classes.
2. Complete the Required 16 Hours
Attend the full course and complete the required classroom instruction and live-fire qualification. If you are new to firearms, use the training to build safe handling habits, understand the applicable laws, and become familiar with the qualification process.
Ask your instructor what you should bring, whether equipment and ammunition are included, and how the class schedule is arranged.
3. Obtain Your Qualification Documentation
After successfully completing the course, make sure you receive the required signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet. Check that your documentation is complete and ready to upload.
Maryland generally requires the approved training to have been completed within the two years before you submit your application. Avoid scheduling training too far in advance without considering your intended submission date.
4. Complete Fingerprinting and Prepare Your Documents
You must also arrange LiveScan fingerprinting through an authorized provider and obtain a suitable color, passport-style photograph for electronic submission.
Keep your fingerprint receipt and training documentation accessible. Before applying, check the Maryland State Police Wear and Carry Permit requirements for the latest instructions, eligibility criteria, and document specifications.
5. Submit Your Application Online
Once you have completed the required steps, log in to the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. Upload your fingerprint receipt, qualification documentation, and photograph, complete the application, and pay the required fee.
The state advises applicants to allow up to 90 days for the application process after receiving a complete application and fee. This is a processing timeframe, not a guarantee of approval by a particular date.
Can You Apply Before Finishing Training?
For a standard initial application, you should complete the required training before submitting the application. Do not assume that you can submit an incomplete application and finish the course afterward.
Certain applicants may qualify for an exemption, including specified current or former law enforcement personnel, qualifying military members, registered Qualified Handgun Instructors, and individuals who have already completed qualifying firearms training. Exemptions depend on the applicable rules and supporting documentation, so confirm your eligibility with the Maryland State Police before relying on one.
Also remember that completing training or submitting an application does not authorize you to carry a handgun. You must receive approval and your permit card before carrying under the permit.
Prepare for Your Permit With MSP Firearms Training
Taking your training before applying gives you a practical starting point for the Maryland Wear and Carry Permit process. You can complete the necessary instruction, demonstrate your proficiency, organize your documents, and prepare to submit a more complete application.
MSP Firearms Training offers firearms education for Maryland residents, including concealed-carry training options. Its training facility is located at 16300 Croom Road, Brandywine, Maryland. Contact the team to confirm course availability, instructor qualifications, and whether your selected course satisfies the current initial Wear and Carry requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I complete Maryland Wear And Carry Training before applying?
Yes. Most first-time applicants must complete the approved 16-hour firearms safety training course before submitting their Wear and Carry Permit application.
2. How many hours of training do first-time applicants need?
Initial applicants generally need 16 hours of instruction from a Maryland State Police Qualified Handgun Instructor. Renewal applicants generally need eight hours, unless exempt.
3. Do I need to pass a live-fire qualification?
Yes, unless you qualify for an applicable exemption. Most civilian applicants must fire at least 25 rounds and achieve a minimum score of 70% accuracy under the required qualification standards.
4. How long is Maryland Wear and Carry training valid?
Generally, you must complete the required training within two years before submitting your application. Confirm the current requirements with Maryland State Police before scheduling your course.
5. Can I carry a handgun immediately after completing training?
No. Completing training does not grant carry privileges. You must complete the application process, receive approval, and obtain your permit card before carrying under that permit.
