CCW Permit Guide
Maryland Concealed
Carry Permit 2026
Maryland concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information. Maryland became shall-issue following the Supreme Court's Bruen decision (2022). A Wear and Carry Permit (WCP) is required to carry handguns. Maryland has significant training requirements and one of the broader prohibited location lists.
Shall-Issue State
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$75
Required for concealed carry
Validity
2yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
16 Hours
16 hours total: safety course plus live fire; renewal requires 8 hours
Processing
90
typical processing time
Permit Details
Maryland CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Maryland concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Maryland State Police (Wear and Carry Permit)
- Official Site
Permitless Carry
Permit Required - a permit is required to carry concealed
Issue Standard
Shall Issue - the issuing authority must issue a permit to any qualified applicant who meets the requirements
Open Carry
Not Permitted - open carry of handguns is prohibited in Maryland
Resident Fee
$75.00
Permit Valid
2 years from issuance date - renewal required
Minimum Age
21 years old (resident permit)
Background Check
Required - FBI NICS background check required for permit application
Processing Time
90
Duty to Inform
No Requirement - no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Maryland CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Maryland requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued. Minimum training time: 16 hours. Approved training types: 16 hours total: safety course plus live fire; renewal requires 8 hours.
Maryland requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued. Minimum training time: 16 hours. Approved training types: 16 hours total: safety course plus live fire; renewal requires 8 hours.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Maryland
Schools, government buildings, legislative buildings, courthouses, state and local public buildings, public transit, places of worship, stadiums, bars and restaurants serving alcohol, hospitals, casinos, museums, parks
Note: Federal law also prohibits carry in federal facilities, federal courthouses, and other locations regardless of state law. Always check both state and federal restrictions.
Important Notes
Maryland-Specific CCW Information
Maryland passed HB 824 (2023) to create extensive sensitive place restrictions following Bruen — ongoing litigation. Maryland does not issue non-resident permits and does not recognize any other state's carry permit. WCP valid for only 2 years. Open carry is prohibited.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Maryland are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Maryland State Police (Wear and Carry Permit) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.
Source: Maryland State Police (Wear and Carry Permit) (mdsp.maryland.gov).
For reference 2026. Laws change - always verify directly with the official issuing authority before carrying.