Concealed Carry Permit in Maryland: How Long Does It Take?

If you’re thinking about getting your concealed carry permit in Maryland, chances are you’ve already asked the big question: How long does it take?

You’re not alone. For many Maryland residents, the process can seem complicated, especially with changing laws and increasing interest in personal protection. Whether you’re applying for personal safety, business reasons, or simply exercising your rights responsibly, knowing what to expect—and how to prepare—makes all the difference.

So let’s break it down, step-by-step. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how long it takes, what you need to do, and how to make the process smoother and faster for yourself.

 

Step 1: Decide if You’re Eligible

Before anything else, you need to be sure you’re eligible to apply for a concealed carry permit in Maryland (officially called the Maryland Wear and Carry Permit).

To qualify, you must:

• Be 21 years of age or older
• Have no felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanors
• Complete required firearms training
• Not have a documented history of violent behavior, addiction, or instability
• Pass a thorough background investigation

If you meet these basic qualifications, you’re off to a good start. The next phase is training.

Step 2: Complete the Required Firearms Training

This is one of the most time-sensitive parts of the process—and it’s completely within your control. Maryland law requires that you complete a 16-hour certified firearms training course before applying for your permit.

This course includes:

• Safe firearm handling
• Maryland firearms laws and use-of-force rules
• Live-fire exercises
• Defensive shooting fundamentals
• Situational awareness and holster use

If you’re renewing an existing permit, you only need 8 hours of training.

How long does this part take?

Most high-quality firearms training centers offer this course over two days (8 hours per day). Some may offer an accelerated version for small groups or individuals. If you schedule wisely, you can complete your training in a single weekend.

Sign Up Here

Want to knock out your training quickly and get expert guidance through the whole process?

Sign up here for a certified Maryland Wear and Carry training course that meets all state requirements—and prepares you with real-world defensive skills you can trust.

Step 3: Submit Your Application to the Maryland State Police

Once you’ve completed your training, you’re ready to apply.

The application is submitted online through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A copy of your training completion certificate
• Two passport-style photos taken within the last 30 days
• Your fingerprints, taken by a certified LiveScan provider
• Documentation explaining your reason for applying (such as self-defense, employment, or personal protection)
• $75 non-refundable application fee (initial)

After submitting everything, the waiting begins. But how long, exactly?

Step 4: Background Investigation and Review

Once submitted, your application goes through a thorough background investigation conducted by the Maryland State Police. This is where the time delay can vary.

Here’s the average timeline:

• Fingerprint processing: 3–5 business days
• State police review and investigation: 30 to 90 days
• Decision and permit issuance (if approved): Within the 90-day window

So in total, from application submission to receiving your permit, you’re looking at approximately 45 to 90 days, depending on your background, application completeness, and current backlog.

Step 5: Receive and Activate Your Permit

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your Wear and Carry Permit by mail. It’s a plastic card, much like a driver’s license, valid for two years on initial issuance. Once you have it in hand, you can legally carry a concealed firearm in accordance with Maryland laws.

Note: Maryland is a “shall issue” state as of recent legal shifts, which means the state cannot arbitrarily deny qualified applicants. Still, the approval process is stringent, and any mistake can delay your application.

How to Speed Things Up

You can’t control how fast the Maryland State Police work, but you can avoid the mistakes that delay most applications. Here’s how to help move things along:

• Double-check your application before submitting. Errors cause delays.
• Get fingerprinted promptly and make sure they go to the right agency.
• Submit clear, legible documents—blurry photos or missing info will slow you down.
• Train with a reputable, state-certified instructor who understands the process and can guide you.
• Keep a copy of every document you submit.

When you get organized and work with professionals, the entire timeline from training to permit approval can be as short as 4–6 weeks.

Enroll With a Trusted Firearms Instructor

Not all training programs are the same. When it comes to concealed carry in Maryland, a cheap or generic course may not cover all the required topics—or worse, it may not be accepted by the state.

️ Enroll today in a certified training course led by professionals who know Maryland law, live-fire requirements, and how to prepare you for real-world carry situations—not just test questions.

You’ll leave with the training, documentation, and confidence you need to submit your application without delay.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Wait?

So let’s go back to the original question: How long does it take to get your concealed carry permit in Maryland?

With solid preparation, you’re looking at:

• 2 days for training
• 1–2 days for fingerprinting
• 1–2 hours to submit your application online
• 45–90 days for approval and processing

In total, expect a timeline of 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish. Not bad for something as important as your personal protection and legal right to carry.

And yes—it’s absolutely worth the wait. You’re not just getting a card in your wallet. You’re gaining the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re trained, responsible, and legally protected.

If that’s your goal, there’s no better time to start.

 

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