Dragged Kicking into Shall Issue
When people talk about concealed carry laws Maryland, they are discussing a set of regulations that shape how you may legally possess and carry a firearm in the Old Line State. After the Supreme Court’s ruling in NYSRPA v. Bruen, Maryland moved to a shall-issue model, meaning the Maryland State Police must issue Wear/Carry Handgun Permits (WCHPs) to applicants who meet the CCW requirements by state. But there is still a fair amount of detail you need to understand — including the role of concealed carry training, new restrictions on open carry, and the 7-day waiting period for handgun purchases.
Below, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about Maryland’s concealed carry laws so you can feel confident in your decisions. We’ll cover essential topics like who can get a permit, what sorts of firearms are allowed, where you can carry, and what kind of training is mandatory. Whether you’re a newcomer to Maryland’s firearms regulations or a longtime resident looking for a refresher, this article outlines the basics of concealed carry laws Maryland and how they might affect you.
Table of Contents
Maryland’s Shift to Shall-Issue
Historically, Maryland used to require a “good and substantial reason” for issuing permits, making it one of the more restrictive states for concealed carry. Following the Supreme Court’s decision in 2022, the state adjusted to a shall-issue process. Now, if you satisfy the legal criteria, the Secretary of the Maryland State Police must issue you a Wear/Carry Handgun Permit (WCHP).
- Age Requirement: 21 is the standard age for a permit, though individuals 18 to 20 may be eligible if carrying for employment.
- Waiting Period: Maryland enforces a 7-day waiting period after you buy a handgun.
- “Assault Weapon” Ban: Specific firearms are barred from purchase or transfer, and the magazine capacity cap is 10 rounds for handguns.
Understanding the Maryland Permit System
While Maryland is not a constitutional carry state, it does offer WCHPs for both residents and non-residents, provided they meet the qualifications. Here are some highlights:
Must Complete Concealed Carry Training
Before applying, you’re required to finish a 16-hour state-approved firearms course that includes live fire. For renewals, an 8-hour refresher suffices.CCW Requirements by State
Unlike some states’ processes, Maryland’s includes fingerprinting, background checks, and — now that it’s shall-issue — no “good cause” requirement. Non-residents follow the same steps but must also supply additional documents.No Reciprocity
Maryland does not honor permits from other states. If you move to Maryland, you can apply as soon as you meet the residency and training requirements.Fees and Validity
Permit fees are $75 initially (rising to $125 starting 10/01/23), and renewals cost $50 (rising to $75). An initial permit lasts until the final day of your birth month after two years. Subsequent renewals expire every three years.
Key Rules for Carrying Concealed
Open Carry Banned
As of October 1, 2023, open carry is no longer permitted in Maryland. This is a major change, so plan on carrying concealed only.
In Your Vehicle
Unless you hold a valid Maryland WCHP, you typically cannot carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle. Any transport of firearms by unlicensed individuals must follow strict regulations, such as keeping the gun unloaded and inaccessible.
Where You Can Carry
- Restaurants with Alcohol: Effective October 1, 2023, bars and establishments licensed to serve alcohol for on-site consumption are off-limits if they meet certain posted signage. (This has already faced legal challenges, so stay up to date.)
- Hotels: You may be refused lodging or asked to leave by an innkeeper if they believe you’re bringing firearms onto the property.
- Rest Areas: Prohibited even with a valid permit, unless locked and secured in your vehicle.
- State and National Forests/Parks: These remain off-limits for concealed carry, while some wildlife areas can allow WCHP holders to possess a concealed handgun.
- Churches or Other Places of Worship: Not specifically forbidden under Maryland law, but private property owners may prohibit firearms.
Magazine Capacity
Maryland outlaws purchasing or transferring magazines capable of holding over 10 rounds. Possession itself is not banned (for previously owned magazines), but manufacturing, selling, or importing them into the state is illegal.
Transport by Non-Permitted Individuals
Even if you don’t have a WCHP, you can lawfully transport an unloaded firearm for specific reasons, like going to a shooting range or gun shop. Just ensure it’s locked away and not quickly accessible.
Firearms Purchases and Handgun Qualification License (HQL)
Any prospective handgun buyer in Maryland must hold a Handgun Qualification License (HQL). Concealed carry laws Maryland also require you to get the HQL if you want to rent a handgun or engage in other regulated activities. To obtain an HQL, you must:
- Complete a firearms safety course unless exempt (active military, retired LEO, etc.).
- Have an electronic fingerprint background check.
- Apply online through the Maryland State Police portal.
Once you wait the mandatory 7 days, you can purchase your handgun. Background checks also apply to private transfers. Assault pistols/long guns are broadly restricted.
Use of Force and Self-Defense
Unlike states with “Stand Your Ground,” Maryland follows a duty-to-retreat principle outside your home. Deadly force is a last resort option, and you must attempt to safely avoid the confrontation first, if possible. In your home (under “Castle Doctrine”), you do not have the same obligation to flee before defending yourself.
For more educational resources on the Second Amendment and self-defense laws, you can visit our online firearms owners resource guide for more information.
Why Concealed Carry Training Matters
In states with more requirements, many wonder if “Is training worth it?” The answer is a resounding yes. Proper concealed carry training not only meets CCW requirements by state, but it also gives you the confidence to handle your handgun responsibly. Furthermore, your knowledge of the law helps ensure you remain compliant with each regulation—from locked transport to where you can legally carry.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
Navigating concealed carry laws Maryland can be challenging, especially considering the recent shift to shall-issue status, the array of prohibited locations, and the handshake between local and state rules. But by understanding the fundamental steps—completing concealed carry training, applying for a WCHP, abiding by the 7-day waiting period, and knowing where you can’t carry—you’ll be in a strong position to carry a firearm responsibly and lawfully in Maryland.
As always, stay alert for updates to these regulations. Legal challenges and new legislation may continue to shape the path for law-abiding gun owners. It’s wise to remain informed and be prepared with credible resources that track CCW requirements by state. Ultimately, approaching concealed carry with respect for the rules and an emphasis on safety ensures you can protect yourself and your loved ones while respecting Maryland’s laws.
If you would like a downloadable guide to Maryland’s concealed carry laws you can visit HandgunLaw.us here.
Concealed Carry Laws Maryland: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes, individuals may carry pepper spray or mace as a reasonable precaution against possible danger. However, you may not wear or carry such a device openly with the intent to injure someone unlawfully. In Baltimore, for example, you must be at least 18 years old and not a convicted felon to purchase pepper spray. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Maryland is now a shall-issue state. Concealed weapons permits, known as Maryland Wear/Carry Handgun Permits (WCHPs), are issued at the state level by the Secretary of the Maryland State Police to applicants who meet all legal requirements. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | No. As of October 1, 2023, open carry is no longer permitted in Maryland. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes, stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit. However, under Maryland law, they are considered dangerous weapons when carried outside of the home, and there are specific restrictions on their possession in public schools, state buildings, and in Baltimore City unless you have a valid WCHP or meet other specific exceptions. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. Even with a WCHP, you are not allowed to carry weapons other than handguns in Maryland. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | No, Maryland does not impose ammunition restrictions on the types of ammunition you may purchase or possess. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | Yes. You may not manufacture, sell, offer for sale, purchase, receive, or transfer a detachable magazine with a capacity of more than 10 rounds of ammunition for a firearm. There are exemptions for .22 caliber rifles with tubular magazines and for law enforcement officers (LEOs) and retired LEOs. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a concealed carry permit in Maryland, except for employment purposes, when individuals aged 18 to 20 may be eligible. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No. Maryland does not allow constitutional carry; you must hold a valid WCHP to carry a concealed firearm. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | Beginning October 1, 2023, locations licensed to sell or dispense alcohol or cannabis for on-site consumption are prohibited from permitting concealed carry. Check local policies, as many establishments now post restrictions. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | In Maryland, open or concealed carry is not allowed in state/national parks and state/national forests. However, with a valid Maryland WCHP, you may carry in Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | You can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle only if you hold a valid Maryland WCHP. Without a permit, there are strict requirements for transporting firearms—handguns must be unloaded, in an enclosed case or holster, and not readily accessible from the passenger compartment. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | An innkeeper may refuse to provide lodging or may remove you if they reasonably believe that your possession of a firearm poses a danger. It is best to check with the hotel regarding its concealed carry policy before arriving. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | No. Concealed carry at state highway rest areas is prohibited in Maryland unless the firearm is properly secured within your vehicle in accordance with specific regulations. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Maryland state law does not specifically address storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot; however, individual employers may have their own policies regarding this matter. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No, the public does not have access to Maryland’s concealed carry registry information through public records law. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No, there is no duty to notify a police officer that you are carrying a concealed firearm in Maryland. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | Yes, Maryland has a red flag law. Various individuals, including family members, cohabitants, medical professionals, and law enforcement, may petition for an order to have a person surrender their firearms and ammunition if deemed an extreme risk. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | Yes. If a location is clearly posted with a “No Weapons Allowed” sign, entering with a concealed firearm is a crime. Additionally, possessing a firearm in an establishment licensed for on-premises alcohol consumption, while under the influence, can also be penalized. |
| TRIBAL LAND? | Maryland does not have designated tribal lands, so this question is not applicable in the state. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | No. You are not allowed to carry a concealed firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes, Maryland issues concealed carry permits to non-residents following the same process as for residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | No specific definition of brandishing is provided in Maryland law; however, you may not intentionally cause or attempt to cause serious physical injury to another person. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | No. Your Maryland driver’s license is not linked to your WCHP, so law enforcement officers will not be automatically notified of your concealed carry status when they run your license. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes, Maryland has full state preemption of all gun laws. However, municipalities may regulate firearms and ammunition in or within 100 yards of certain public areas such as parks, churches, schools, and public buildings. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | Yes, there is a seven-day waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Maryland. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No, your current Maryland concealed carry permit does not exempt you from needing a background check when purchasing a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | Yes, a permit is required to purchase a handgun in Maryland. You must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) to purchase, rent, or transfer ownership of a regulated firearm. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes. Private firearms sellers must process transfers of handguns through a licensed dealer or designated law enforcement agency, which conducts a background check. Completed transaction information must be forwarded to the Secretary of State’s office within seven days. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | You must be at least 21 years old to possess and transport a handgun in Maryland. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. Anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm may possess it on property they own or lease, reside in, or operate a business from. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | Yes, handguns must be registered in Maryland. New residents are required to register all regulated firearms with the Secretary of the Maryland State Police within 90 days of establishing residency. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHICH STATES’ CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF MARYLAND HONOR? | Maryland does not honor any concealed carry permits or licenses issued by other states. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF MARYLAND? | The following states honor permits from Maryland: Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old); Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); North Carolina; North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); and Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old). |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF MARYLAND? | States with restricted reciprocity (only honoring Maryland resident permits) include: Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); and Michigan (resident permits only, at least 21 years old). |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | The permitless carry states are: Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old); Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military); Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old); West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old); and Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old). |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | You must submit a notarized letter detailing the circumstances surrounding the loss or theft, along with a $10 check or money order and a passport-sized photograph taken within the last 30 days. Additional documentation may be required if you are in a regulated profession (e.g., security guard). |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Initial permits expire on the last day of your birth month following two years after issuance and may be renewed for successive three-year periods. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION? | Applications are submitted via the online Maryland State Police licensing portal. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Maryland grants concealed carry permits to non-residents using the same process as residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF MARYLAND? | If you move out of Maryland, your permit remains valid until it expires provided you submit a Name/Address Change Form to the Licensing Division. If you establish residency in another state, your Maryland permit expires upon establishing residency unless you follow the required notification procedures. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Initial permit fees are $75 (increasing to $125 starting October 1, 2023), with renewal fees at $50 (rising to $75 starting October 1, 2023). Additional fees of $2 apply for duplicates or change of address/name. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The processing time for a permit is approximately 90 days. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must notify the Licensing Division in writing within 30 days of any change by mailing your notification to the Maryland State Police Licensing Division at the address provided on the official website. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | An applicant must be at least 21 years old (or 18 for employment purposes), successfully complete a state-approved 16-hour firearms training course (or meet a training exemption), pass fingerprint and background checks, and have no disqualifying criminal convictions or other prohibitions under state or federal law. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | Applicants must complete a state-approved firearms training course, get fingerprinted at an approved center, and then complete an online application via the Maryland State Police licensing portal along with the required photographs, documents, and fees. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | You must complete a state-approved firearms training course. For an initial application, a minimum of 16 hours of instruction, including live-fire training, is required. For renewals, 8 hours of training is required. Courses cover Maryland firearms law, home safety, handling, and operation of handguns. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | You must submit a renewal application via the online licensing portal no less than 90 business days before your permit expires. An 8-hour refresher training course is required, and you must update your photographs and any other required documentation. Renewal permits are issued for successive three-year periods. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | With a valid Maryland WCHP, you may carry concealed in permitted areas. However, there are restrictions: you cannot carry in state or national parks/forests, in certain establishments (e.g., places licensed for on-site alcohol or cannabis consumption after October 1, 2023), in state highway rest areas unless the firearm is properly secured, and in other prohibited areas as outlined by Maryland law. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | You cannot carry in public schools, child care centers, hospitals, state parks, state/national forests, Chesapeake Forest Lands, state highway rest areas (unless secured in your vehicle), commercial aircraft, lodging establishments if prohibited by the innkeeper, and other locations as specified in Maryland law and administrative codes. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. Maryland law prohibits interfering with the lawful taking of wildlife by another person. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. You may concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting if you have a valid WCHP. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, but only for personal protection while bow hunting in Deer Management Region A. You cannot use the handgun to kill wildlife wounded by a vertical bow or crossbow. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | You cannot concealed carry a throwing star, dirk, switchblade, gravity knife, or Bowie knife. Open carry of these items may be legal, but carrying them with the intent to harm is prohibited. All knives are banned from Maryland schools, and municipalities may have additional restrictions. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes, there is no statute in Maryland that prohibits wearing a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying a concealed firearm. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. LEOs and retired LEOs in Maryland are exempt from certain restrictions, such as the prohibition on purchasing high-capacity magazines, and they are not required to obtain a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) for firearm purchases if they are current or retired state or federal law enforcement officers. Out-of-state LEOs living in Maryland must obtain an HQL but are exempt from training requirements. |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
