Maryland Concealed Carry Laws: Permit Requirements

Maryland operates under a shall-issue handgun permitting system administered exclusively by the Maryland State Police. Carrying a handgun—concealed or openly—requires a state-issued Wear and Carry Permit, with no exceptions for non-residents holding permits from other states.

Maryland does not recognize permitless carry, and the state's sensitive-place restrictions significantly limit where even permit holders may lawfully carry.

This guide covers the legal framework for concealed carry in Maryland, including permit requirements, prohibited locations, reciprocity rules, and recent legal developments. Maryland gun laws are complex and subject to change through legislation and court rulings.

This is not legal advice. Laws change frequently, and penalties for violations can be severe. Always verify current requirements with the Maryland State Police Licensing Division or consult a qualified attorney before making carry decisions.

Is Concealed Carry Legal in Maryland?

Yes, but only with a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit. Maryland law prohibits any person from wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun on or about their person without a permit issued under Maryland Public Safety Code Title 5, Subtitle 3. This prohibition applies to both concealed and open carry, and extends to handguns in vehicles on public roads and parking lots.

Maryland is a shall-issue state—applicants who meet all statutory qualifications and complete required training must be issued a permit.

However, Maryland law previously required applicants to demonstrate a "good and substantial reason" for carrying. In 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down New York's similar "proper cause" requirement in NYSRPA v. Bruen, and Maryland courts subsequently held the "good and substantial reason" standard unconstitutional. The Maryland State Police no longer enforce this requirement.

Maryland is not a constitutional carry state and does not allow permitless carry under any circumstances. The minimum age for a Wear and Carry Permit is generally 21 years old, with limited exceptions for certain active-duty military members under 21.

Both Maryland residents and non-residents may apply for a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit through the same application process. Maryland does not issue permits to residents of other states who maintain no Maryland connection, but the legal standard—a Maryland-issued permit—is the same regardless of residency status.

Non-residents who wish to carry in Maryland must obtain a Maryland permit; no out-of-state permit provides legal authority to carry in Maryland.

Concealed Carry Permits in Maryland

Maryland issues the "Wear and Carry Permit" (also called a Handgun Permit) for public carry of handguns. The permit is issued by the Maryland State Police Licensing Division and processed entirely through the MSP Licensing Portal.

Issuing Authority

All Wear and Carry Permit applications, renewals, replacements, and modifications are handled by the Maryland State Police, Licensing Division. Applications must be submitted electronically through the official MSP Licensing Portal.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit, an applicant must:

• Be at least 21 years old (or meet the active-duty military exception under Maryland Public Safety Code § 5-306)
• Not have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor for which a sentence of imprisonment for more than one year has been imposed
• Not have been convicted of a crime involving possession, use, or distribution of a controlled dangerous substance
• Not presently be an alcoholic, addict, or habitual user of a controlled dangerous substance (unless under legitimate medical direction)
• Not be on supervised probation for certain crimes involving driving under the influence or violating a domestic violence protective order
• Not have exhibited a propensity for violence or instability that may reasonably render the person's possession of a handgun a danger to the person or to another
• Not have been involuntarily admitted to a mental health treatment facility for more than 30 consecutive days
• Not be subject to a current non-ex parte civil domestic violence protective order, an extreme risk protective order, or any court order prohibiting purchase or possession of firearms
• Have successfully completed an approved firearms training course meeting state requirements within two years prior to application
• Meet all federal and state firearms possession requirements

The Secretary of State Police may not issue a permit for five years to anyone convicted of Maryland's child access prevention law after October 1, 2023, or permanently if convicted of a second or subsequent violation, or if the violation resulted in death or serious bodily injury.

Training Requirements

Maryland law mandates specific training for both initial and renewal applications, unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption.

Original Application: 16 hours of in-person instruction by a Maryland-registered Qualified Handgun Instructor. The course must include:

• Classroom instruction on state and federal firearms laws (self-defense, defense of others and property, safe storage, prohibited persons, firearm surrender requirements, reporting lost or stolen firearms, banned firearms and accessories, straw purchases, armed trespass, and location restrictions)
• Home firearm safety
• Handgun mechanisms and operations
• Conflict de-escalation and resolution
• Anger management
• Suicide prevention
• A live-fire qualification component on a firing range demonstrating safe handling and shooting proficiency, with a minimum 70% score requirement

Renewal Application: 8 hours of in-person instruction by a Maryland-registered Qualified Handgun Instructor, covering the same subject areas with a live-fire qualification component.

Applicants must upload a completed and signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet to the Licensing Portal. Training must be completed within two years prior to submitting the application. A list of Qualified Handgun Instructors is available on the MSP website.

Application Process

The application process requires completion of several prerequisites before submitting the electronic application:

1. Livescan Fingerprinting: Submit electronic fingerprints through an approved Maryland vendor using the Wear and Carry authorization code. Upload the Livescan receipt to the portal application.
2. Firearms Training: Complete the 16-hour course and obtain the signed MSP 29-14 Certified Qualification Score Sheet.
3. Portal Application: Create an account in the MSP Licensing Portal (if new applicant), complete all application sections, upload required documents (Livescan receipt, training certificate, passport-style photo), and pay the $125 application fee via credit card.

Applications are reviewed for completeness within 1-5 business days. Incomplete applications are returned with instructions for correction.

Once accepted, a criminal background investigation is conducted. The Maryland State Police must render a final disposition within 90 days of receiving a complete application and fee.

If approved, the permit card and approval letter are mailed to the applicant's address on file. If denied, applicants may request an informal review within 10 days or appeal to the Office of Administrative Hearings.

Validity Period and Renewal

Initial Wear and Carry Permits expire on the last day of the permit holder's birth month following two years after issuance. Permits may be renewed for successive three-year periods.

Renewal applications should begin 90 days before expiration. The renewal process mirrors the original application but does not require new fingerprints. Unless exempt, renewal applicants must complete an 8-hour training course and upload a new MSP 29-14 score sheet.

Critical: Wear and Carry Permit renewal applications submitted after the current permit expires will be rejected. Applicants whose permits expire must submit a new original application with 16-hour training and new Livescan fingerprints.

As long as a renewal application is submitted at least 14 days before expiration, the permit holder may continue carrying on the expired permit until the renewed permit is received. If the application is returned for incompleteness and resubmitted after the 14-day window, the permit holder may not carry.

Application Fees

• Original/Initial Application: $125 (fingerprint fees paid separately to vendor)
• Renewal: $75 (fingerprints not required)
• Replacement/Modification: $20 (fingerprints not required)
• Active/Retired Law Enforcement Officers of Maryland or a County/Municipality: $0

All fees are paid electronically in the Licensing Portal and are non-refundable.

Where Concealed Carry Is Prohibited in Maryland

Maryland law prohibits firearms in numerous locations, even for permit holders. Violations carry criminal penalties.

Baseline Prohibition

Absent a permit or a specific statutory exception, Maryland law prohibits wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun anywhere—including in vehicles on public roads and parking lots.

Sensitive Places Under Maryland Criminal Law § 4-111

Effective October 1, 2023, Maryland enacted broad "sensitive places" restrictions organized into three categories: areas for children or vulnerable individuals, government or public infrastructure areas, and special purpose areas.

Areas for Children or Vulnerable Individuals (§ 4-111(a)(2)):

• Preschool or prekindergarten facilities and their grounds
• Private primary or secondary schools and their grounds
• Health care facilities as defined in Maryland Insurance Code § 15-10B-01(g)(1)-(4)

Government or Public Infrastructure Areas (§ 4-111(a)(3)):

Maryland law requires government or public infrastructure locations owned or leased by a unit of state or local government to display "clear and conspicuous" signs at the main entrance indicating firearms are not permitted. This signage requirement is written into the statute for these specified places and carries the force of law.

Government or public infrastructure areas include:

• Any building or part of a building owned or leased by a unit of state or local government
• Buildings of public or private institutions of higher education as defined in Maryland Education Code § 10-101
• Locations currently being used as polling places under Election Law Article Title 10 or for canvassing ballots under Title 11
• Electric plants or electric storage facilities as defined in Maryland Public Utilities Code § 1-101
• Gas plants as defined in Maryland Public Utilities Code § 1-101
• Nuclear power plant facilities

Special Purpose Areas (§ 4-111(e)):

• Locations licensed to sell or dispense alcohol or cannabis for on-site consumption
• Stadiums
• Museums
• Racetracks
• Video lottery facilities as defined in Maryland State Government Code § 9-1A-01

Additional Statutory Prohibited Locations

Maryland law also prohibits firearms in:

• School property (Maryland Criminal Law § 4-102)
• Within 1,000 feet of a demonstration in a public place after a law enforcement officer orders the person to leave the demonstration area (Maryland Criminal Law § 4-208)
• Legislative buildings (Maryland State Government Code § 2-1702)
• Aboard aircraft (Maryland Transportation Code § 5-1008)
• Lodging establishments where the innkeeper reasonably believes property may be dangerous to other individuals (Maryland Business Regulation Code § 15-203)
• Dredge boats, other than two 10-gauge shotguns (Maryland Natural Resources Code § 4-1013)
• State-owned public buildings and grounds (COMAR 04.05.01.03)
• Chesapeake Forest Lands, except for permitted hunting and target shooting (COMAR 08.01.07.14)
• State Forests, except for permitted hunting and target shooting (COMAR 08.07.01.04)
• State Parks, except for permitted hunting and target shooting (COMAR 08.07.06.04)
• State Highway Rest Areas (display or discharge prohibited) (COMAR 11.04.07.12)
• Community adult rehabilitation centers (COMAR 12.02.03.10)
• Child care centers, except small centers in residences (COMAR 13A.16.10.04)

Private Property Restrictions

Under Maryland Criminal Law § 6-411, a person wearing, carrying, or transporting a firearm may not enter or trespass:

• In the dwelling of another unless the owner or agent has given express permission (either to the person or to the public generally) to carry firearms inside the dwelling
• On private property unless the owner or agent has posted a clear and conspicuous sign permitting firearms, or has given the person express permission to carry firearms on the property

Exceptions to Sensitive-Place Restrictions

The sensitive-place prohibitions under § 4-111 for locations not owned, leased, or controlled by the state or a political subdivision do not apply to:

• The owner or lessee of the location
• A person authorized by the owner or lessee to carry firearms at the location for employment as a licensed security guard or for protecting individuals or property under an express agreement with remuneration or compensation

The sensitive-place prohibitions also do not apply to firearms carried or transported in a motor vehicle if the firearm is:

• Locked in a container, or
• A handgun carried by a person with a valid Wear and Carry Permit in compliance with any limitations imposed under Maryland Public Safety Code § 5-307

Federal Court Injunction (August 2024)

On August 2, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland issued an injunction ruling that the following firearm carry restrictions are unconstitutional:

• Locations selling alcohol (Maryland Criminal Law § 4-111(a)(2)(8)(i))
• Private buildings or property without the owner's consent (Maryland Criminal Law § 6-411)
• Within 1,000 feet of a public demonstration (Maryland Criminal Law § 4-208)

These restrictions remain in the Maryland Code but are currently unenforceable pending further legal proceedings. Enforcement status may change—always verify current enforcement with the Maryland State Police or legal counsel.

"Printing" and Brief Exposure

Maryland Criminal Law § 4-111 explicitly states that "momentary and inadvertent exposure" of a handgun, or of the "imprint or outline" of a handgun, does not violate a concealment requirement. Brief, unintentional printing or exposure is not a criminal violation.

Concealed Carry Reciprocity in Maryland

Maryland does not recognize concealed carry permits issued by any other state. The Maryland State Police has stated Maryland law does not recognize out-of-state handgun carry permits and does not authorize the State to enter into reciprocity agreements.

Carrying in Maryland with an Out-of-State Permit

No out-of-state concealed carry permit authorizes carrying a handgun in Maryland. Maryland law requires a permit "issued under this subtitle"—meaning a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit—before any person may carry, wear, or transport a handgun in Maryland. This requirement applies equally to residents and non-residents.

Non-residents who wish to carry in Maryland must apply for and obtain a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit through the same process Maryland residents use.

Maryland Permits Recognized Elsewhere

Whether other states recognize Maryland Wear and Carry Permits is controlled by the laws of each destination state. Maryland law does not establish reciprocity; out-of-state recognition depends entirely on the other state's statutes and administrative policies.

Before traveling to another state with a Maryland permit, verify that state's current reciprocity status through official state sources (typically the state police, department of public safety, or attorney general). Do not assume reciprocity based on outdated information or unofficial sources.

Limited Federal Exceptions

Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) allows qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms nationwide under specific federal statutory conditions, independent of state permitting requirements.

LEOSA is a federal statutory defense and does not eliminate state law—officers relying on LEOSA should carry proper credentials and understand both federal and state-specific limitations.

Federal Restrictions That Still Apply in Maryland

Federal law imposes firearm restrictions that apply in Maryland regardless of state permit status.

Federal Facilities

Federal law and regulations restrict firearms in federal buildings, courthouses, post offices, and other federal property. A Maryland Wear and Carry Permit does not authorize carrying in federal facilities where federal regulations prohibit firearms.

Federal Interstate Transport Protection (FOPA Safe Passage)

18 U.S.C. § 926A provides a federal defense for transporting firearms interstate. A person not prohibited from possessing firearms may transport a firearm from a place where they may lawfully possess and carry it to another place where they may lawfully possess and carry it, provided:

• The firearm is unloaded
• Neither the firearm nor any ammunition is readily accessible from the passenger compartment
• If the vehicle has no separate trunk or compartment, the firearm and ammunition must be in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console

This federal protection applies when traveling through Maryland en route to another lawful destination. It does not authorize carrying loaded handguns in Maryland or stopping in Maryland for purposes other than necessary travel (fuel, food, lodging, vehicle emergencies).

Maryland Transport Exceptions

Maryland Criminal Law § 4-203 includes enumerated exceptions allowing handgun transport without a Wear and Carry Permit under specific conditions:

• Transport to or from the person's residence, place of business owned by the person, or between residences or businesses
• Transport to or from a repair shop
• Transport to or from a shooting range, organized shooting competition, or hunting location
• Transport to or from a gun show, gun collector meeting, or firearms training class
• Transport in connection with lawful purchase or sale

These exceptions require the handgun to be unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or enclosed holster. They apply only to transport, not to carrying a loaded handgun on the person or within ready access in a vehicle.

Maryland's transport exceptions are narrower than FOPA's federal safe passage provision. When relying on FOPA, ensure the firearm is unloaded and inaccessible as federal law requires.

Recent Legal Changes or Trends

Sensitive Places Restrictions (2023)

Maryland enacted comprehensive "sensitive places" legislation effective October 1, 2023, through Maryland Criminal Law § 4-111 and § 6-411. These laws created three defined categories of restricted locations and imposed private property carry restrictions requiring affirmative permission or posted signage.

The sensitive-place framework mirrors similar legislation enacted in other states following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision in NYSRPA v. Bruen.

Federal Court Injunction (August 2024)

On August 2, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland issued an injunction after ruling several carry restrictions unconstitutional, including prohibitions on carrying in alcohol-serving establishments, on private property without owner consent, and within 1,000 feet of public demonstrations.

These provisions remain in Maryland statutory code but are currently unenforceable.

Litigation challenging sensitive-place restrictions continues nationally post-Bruen. Maryland's enforcement posture may change based on appellate rulings or further court orders.

For current enforcement status, consult the Maryland State Police, Maryland Attorney General advisories, or legal counsel.

Good and Substantial Reason Requirement Eliminated (2022)

Following NYSRPA v. Bruen (2022), Maryland courts held the "good and substantial reason" requirement unconstitutional. The Maryland State Police ceased enforcing this standard.

Applicants are no longer required to demonstrate a specific justification for carrying beyond meeting statutory eligibility requirements and completing mandatory training.

Ongoing MSP Program Updates

The Maryland State Police regularly updates Wear and Carry Permit guidance, training requirements, and documentation procedures through the MSP Licensing Portal and official website.

Changes to qualification standards, instructor registration requirements, and application procedures are announced through MSP channels. Applicants should monitor the Maryland State Police Licensing Division website for current operational requirements.

Common Misunderstandings About Concealed Carry in Maryland

"Maryland is constitutional carry now."

False. Maryland law still requires a permit before any person carries, wears, or transports a handgun. Maryland has never been a constitutional carry state and remains a shall-issue, permit-required state.

"My out-of-state permit lets me carry in Maryland."

False. The Maryland State Police explicitly states Maryland does not recognize other states' handgun carry permits and Maryland law does not authorize reciprocity agreements. Only a Maryland-issued Wear and Carry Permit provides legal authority to carry in Maryland.

"If I have a permit, I can carry anywhere."

False. Maryland law prohibits firearms in multiple categories of sensitive locations under § 4-111, even for permit holders. Government and public infrastructure locations must post clear signage, and private property owners may restrict carry. Permit holders must comply with all location-based restrictions.

"Printing is automatically illegal."

False. Maryland Criminal Law § 4-111 explicitly states that momentary and inadvertent exposure of the handgun or its outline/imprint does not violate a concealment requirement. Brief, unintentional printing does not constitute a violation.

"I can carry my rifle or shotgun with a Wear and Carry Permit."

False. A Maryland Wear and Carry Permit authorizes carrying handguns only. The permit does not extend to rifles, shotguns, or any long guns, which remain subject to separate Maryland transport and carry restrictions.

Practical Notes for Concealed Carriers in Maryland

Permit Holders Must Carry the Physical Permit

Maryland law requires permit holders to carry the permit in their possession whenever carrying, wearing, or transporting a handgun. Failure to carry the permit card is a misdemeanor and grounds for permit revocation.

Carrying While Intoxicated Is Prohibited

Maryland Public Safety Code § 5-314 makes it a misdemeanor to wear, carry, or transport a handgun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even with a valid permit.

Address and Contact Information Changes

Permit holders must update the Maryland State Police within 30 days of any address or email changes. Renewal reminders and important notifications are sent to the email and physical address associated with the permit holder's Licensing Portal account. Failure to maintain current contact information may result in missed renewal deadlines.

Medical Cannabis Users and Federal Prohibition

Federal law prohibits medical cannabis patients and personal cannabis users from purchasing or possessing firearms.

Marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under the Federal Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. § 802), and 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3) bars any unlawful user of or person addicted to a controlled substance from possessing firearms. Maryland state law does not override this federal prohibition.

Medical cannabis patients cannot lawfully possess firearms or obtain a Wear and Carry Permit under federal law, and providing false information on a firearms application is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

Permit Revocation and Review

The Secretary of State Police regularly reviews information from the criminal justice information system central repository to determine whether all permit holders continue to meet qualifications.

Permit holders who become prohibited persons (through criminal convictions, protective orders, extreme risk protective orders, or other disqualifying events) will have their permits revoked.

Revoked permit holders must return their permit cards; failure to do so is a misdemeanor.

Is Concealed Carry Legal in Maryland Now?

Yes, concealed carry is legal in Maryland, but only with a state-issued Wear and Carry Permit. Maryland requires all persons—residents and non-residents—to obtain a Maryland permit before carrying a handgun.

The state does not recognize out-of-state permits and has never implemented constitutional carry. The "good and substantial reason" requirement was eliminated following the Supreme Court's Bruen decision, making Maryland a shall-issue state based solely on statutory qualifications and training completion.

How Hard Is It to Get Concealed Carry in Maryland?

Obtaining a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit requires completing 16 hours of state-approved training, submitting Livescan fingerprints, passing a comprehensive criminal background investigation, and meeting strict eligibility requirements.

The process typically takes 90 days from application submission to final disposition. The elimination of the "good and substantial reason" standard means applicants who meet all qualifications and complete training must be issued a permit.

The difficulty lies in the training time commitment, strict qualification standards, and thorough background review process—not in demonstrating a specific need to carry.

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car in MD?

Yes, but only with a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit for a loaded, accessible handgun. Without a permit, Maryland law allows handgun transport in vehicles only under specific statutory exceptions that require the handgun to be unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or enclosed holster.

Transport exceptions include traveling to/from residences, businesses owned by the person, repair shops, shooting ranges, hunting locations, gun shows, or firearms training.

These are transport-only exceptions; they do not authorize carrying a loaded handgun within reach while driving.

Can I Open Carry in Maryland Without a Permit?

No. Maryland law prohibits wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun—whether concealed or openly—without a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit. The statutory prohibition applies equally to open and concealed carry.

Maryland does not distinguish between carry methods; both require the same state-issued permit. Carrying a handgun openly without a permit is a criminal violation subject to the same penalties as carrying concealed without a permit.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Maryland concealed carry laws based on statutes, regulations, and court decisions as of February 2026. This is not legal advice. Maryland gun laws change frequently through legislation, court rulings, and administrative updates. Penalties for violations include criminal prosecution, permit revocation, and federal firearms prohibitions. Always verify current requirements with the Maryland State Police Licensing Division or consult a qualified Maryland firearms attorney before making carry decisions.