In Anne Arundel County, personal safety is more than a concern — it’s a responsibility. Whether you’re a lifelong Maryland resident or new to the area, understanding how to obtain a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit is essential if you plan to legally carry a concealed firearm.

The process involves more than simply submitting paperwork. It requires meeting eligibility standards, completing state-approved training, and understanding your legal responsibilities. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process and explains how STA Security Training Classes can help you successfully earn your permit.

What Is a Maryland Wear & Carry Permit?

A Maryland Wear & Carry Permit gives approved people the legal right to carry a handgun, either openly or hidden, on their body or inside a vehicle. But Maryland has strict rules about who can get one.

Before 2022, you had to prove a strong reason to carry, like being in danger from someone. But after a big Supreme Court case (NYSRPA v. Bruen), Maryland can’t require you to give a special reason anymore. That means regular people now have a better chance of getting a permit.

Who Can Apply? 10 Eligibility Requirements

Not everyone can get a Wear & Carry Permit. You must meet these basic rules:

Be at least 21 years old (some exceptions for 18+ with job needs)
Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
Complete 16 hours of approved firearm training
Pass a full background check
No serious criminal history (especially felonies or violent crimes)
No active or recent restraining or protective orders
No history of alcohol abuse, illegal drug use, or addiction
Have good moral character
Understand firearm laws, safety, and use
Be legally allowed to own a firearm under state and federal law

Maryland does not issue permits to people who live out of state unless their job requires it. So if you live in Anne Arundel County—this guide is for you!

What You’ll Need Before You Apply

Before applying online through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal, you’ll need to gather some documents. Here’s what to collect:

A government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license)
Proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
A passport-style photo (taken within the last 30 days)
Your Livescan fingerprint receipt
Firearms Qualification Certificate from approved training
Proof you finished the 16-hour firearm training course
Any court papers from past legal issues (if you have them)
An employer letter if you’re applying for job-related carry
Copies of any past carry permits you’ve had
Proof of past gun ownership (like a receipt or gun’s serial number)

Tip: The more complete your application is, the better your chances!

Mandatory Firearms Training: What to Expect

To apply for a permit, you need to take a certified training class.

This includes:

16 hours of training for new applicants
8 hours for renewals

Your class must be taught by a certified Maryland firearms instructor. At STA Security Training Classes (that’s us!), our trainers are fully approved and experienced. Here’s what the training usually includes:

Maryland firearm laws (where you can and can’t carry)
Safe storage, transport, and handling of firearms
How to avoid trouble and use non-violent solutions
Basic self-defense shooting skills
Live-fire practice at a gun range

We make our classes fun, engaging, and easy to understand, even if you’re new to firearms.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Your Wear & Carry Permit

Applying for your permit takes a bit of time, but it’s manageable if you’re prepared. Here’s what to do:

Take your 16-hour training class with an approved instructor
Get fingerprinted at a certified Livescan location
Get your passport-style photo taken (CVS, Walgreens, or a gun shop can help)
Go to the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal: licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov
Create an account and choose “Handgun Wear and Carry Permit”
Fill out your details and upload all necessary documents
Select your reason for applying—”self-defense” is now an allowed reason
Pay the application fee (currently $75 for new applications)
Submit your application
Respond quickly to any emails or questions from the State Police

Permit approval can take up to 90 days. If approved, your permit will be mailed to you and is good for two years. After that, you’ll need to take an 8-hour renewal course and reapply.

Pro Tips for Success

Here are some helpful tips from our team at STA Security Training Classes:

Start with training—it makes the rest easier
Check your documents twice before submitting
Watch your email and reply fast if the State Police ask for anything
Keep copies of everything you send
Wear a nice shirt for your passport photo—you’ll be stuck with it
If you’re applying for work reasons, get a signed letter from your employer
Stay up to date on Maryland’s gun laws—they change!
Use your permit wisely—misuse can get it taken away
Join 2A (Second Amendment) education groups to keep learning
Train with STA—we care about our students and provide real-world advice

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

If you’re looking for expert help, friendly trainers, and a chance to truly understand gun safety and Maryland law, we’d love to work with you.

Based in Anne Arundel County
In-person gun safety & Wear and Carry Permit classes
Call us at: (443) 702-7891
Visit: www.securitytrainingclasses.com

At STA Security Training Classes, we go beyond just handing out certificates. Our instructors bring real-life experience from law enforcement and private protection work. We teach you with care, confidence, and respect.

You’ve got questions—STA has the answers, the experience, and the certification to help you carry legally and responsibly in the state of Maryland.

Be smart. Be trained. Be responsible.
Let’s carry with confidence, Maryland!

Have more questions or want to sign up for our next class?
Call (443) 702-7891 or fill out the contact form on our website.

Stay safe and carry smart!