Maryland Concealed Carry Permit Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know about getting and using a CCW in Maryland — requirements, application steps, training, reciprocity, restricted places, and self-defense laws.
How to Apply in Maryland
Step-by-step process for getting your Maryland concealed carry permit through the Maryland State Police — Handgun Permit Unit.
- 1Complete a state-approved firearms training course (16 hours).
- 2Gather required documents: government-issued ID, proof of Maryland residency, and any training certificates.
- 3Get fingerprinted at an approved location (electronic or ink card).
- 4Submit your application to the Maryland State Police — Handgun Permit Unit and pay the $125 fee.
- 5Complete a state and federal background check.
- 6Receive your permit within 90 days after approval.
Training Requirements
16-hour course with live-fire (8-hour for renewal).
Required hours: 16. Most courses also satisfy training requirements for non-resident permits in other states.
Where You Can't Carry in Maryland
Federal law and Maryland statute restrict concealed carry in several locations. Always check posted signage.
- K-12 schools and school grounds
- Federal buildings and post offices
- Courthouses and judicial buildings
- Polling places on election day
- Establishments serving primarily alcohol
- Private property posted against carry
- Public transit
- Stadiums
- Hospitals
- Bars and restaurants
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Maryland Self-Defense & Carry Laws
Key statutes that affect how you can legally carry and use a firearm for self-defense in Maryland.
Maryland Reciprocity
States that currently honor a Maryland concealed carry permit. Click any state for its own guide.
No states currently honor a Maryland permit for general concealed carry.
Renewal
A Maryland permit is valid for 2 years. Renewal costs $75 and should be started 90 days before expiration to avoid lapse.
Official Resources
Resident and Non-Resident Permits: Available for $125.
Recommended Courses
Some recommended courses are operated by Safehouse Defense, the company behind this site. We identify those relationships so you can evaluate our recommendations.
How we rank: relevance to the permit you are pursuing, whether the course can be completed online, alignment with the issuing authority's published application steps, price transparency, and application support. Courses marked "Editor's Pick" are operated by Safehouse Defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maryland require a permit to carry concealed?+
Yes. Maryland requires a state-issued concealed carry permit issued by the Maryland State Police — Handgun Permit Unit.
What is the minimum age for a Maryland CCW?+
You must be at least 21 years old. Active-duty military and honorably discharged veterans may qualify earlier in some cases.
How much does a Maryland CCW permit cost?+
The state fee in Maryland is approximately $125. Plan for additional costs for training, fingerprints, and photos.
How long does Maryland take to process a CCW application?+
Typical Maryland processing time is 90 days after a complete application is submitted.
Is training required for a Maryland concealed carry permit?+
Maryland requires a state-approved 16-hour course. 16-hour course with live-fire (8-hour for renewal).
How long is a Maryland CCW permit valid?+
A Maryland permit is valid for 2 years. Renewal currently costs $75.
How many states recognize a Maryland CCW permit?+
0 states currently honor a Maryland concealed carry permit. Reciprocity changes — verify before traveling.
Does Maryland offer a non-resident CCW permit?+
Yes. Non-residents can apply; the fee is approximately $125.
Where can't you carry concealed in Maryland?+
Common off-limits places include: K-12 schools and school grounds, Federal buildings and post offices, Courthouses and judicial buildings, Polling places on election day, Establishments serving primarily alcohol, plus other state-specific locations.
Does Maryland have a duty to inform law enforcement?+
Maryland does not have a statutory duty to inform, but disclosing during a traffic stop is generally recommended.
Disclaimer: Concealed carry laws change frequently. This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the Maryland State Police — Handgun Permit Unit before applying or carrying.