Eligibility Requirements
- You must be 21 years of age or older.
- You must be able to demonstrate competency with a firearm.
- Unless you are serving overseas in the United States Armed Forces, you must currently reside in the United States (U.S.) AND be a U.S. citizen or deemed a lawful permanent resident alien by Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). If you are serving overseas in the U.S. Armed Forces, submit a copy of your deployment documentation with your application. Those who are ‘Resident Aliens’ must provide a valid Permanent Resident Alien card.
Possible Reasons for Ineligibility:
- The physical inability to handle a firearm safely.
- A felony conviction (unless civil and firearm rights have been restored by the convicting authority).
- Having adjudication withheld or sentence suspended on a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence unless three years have elapsed since probation or other conditions set by the court have been fulfilled.
- A conviction for a misdemeanor crime of violence in the last three years.
- A conviction for violation of controlled substance laws or multiple arrests for such offenses.
- A record of drug or alcohol abuse.
- Two or more DUI convictions within the previous three years.
- Being committed to a mental institution or adjudged incompetent or mentally defective.
- Failing to provide proof of proficiency with a firearm.
- Having been issued a domestic violence injunction or an injunction against repeat violence that is currently in force.
- Renouncement of U.S. citizenship.
- A dishonorable discharge from the armed forces.
- Being a fugitive from justice.
Detailed explanations of these various disqualifying conditions are provided in the Application Instructions for the Concealed Weapon or Firearm License.
Application Processing Time
Once the Division of Licensing has your complete application, it will take about 90 days for the Division to process it and notify you of the outcome. Processing may take longer than 90 days if additional information regarding criminal records must be obtained.
What is the term of my license?
The Concealed Weapon or Firearm License has a license term of 7 years.
How do I renew my license?
The division will send your renewal application form with complete instructions on how to renew your license approximately 150 days prior to the expiration date of your license.
Alternatively, a Concealed Weapon or Firearm License can be renewed at one of the Division of Licensing’s eight regional offices. You simply have to call for an appointment by contacting the office that is most convenient for you. Bring your unsigned renewal form with you. They will perform the notary service and take your picture at no additional charge.