How To Get A Gun License In Massachusetts (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Home » How To Get A Gun License In Ma » How To Get A Gun License In Massachusetts (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Get a Firearm License in Massachusetts PDF download Download Article Everything you need to know about applying for a gun permit Explore this Article parts 1 Getting Trained for a Gun License 2 Obtaining and Preparing the Application 3 Submitting the Application and Other Requirements 4 Understanding the License Qualifications + Show 1 more... - Show less... Other Sections Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD

Last Updated: September 28, 2024 Approved

PDF download Download Article X

This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 82% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 278,270 times.

If you are a resident of Massachusetts, you are required by the state to have a gun license in order to own or carry a firearm. Although the type of gun license you possess may vary depending on whether you want to keep a firearm at your home or carry the firearm with you, the application procedure is the same. Before you can get a gun license, you must take a firearms safety course approved by the state of Massachusetts. You must then complete the "Firearms Identification (FID) Card Or License To Carry Firearms (LTC) Application" and turn it in to a police department in your local area.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 4:

Getting Trained for a Gun License

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Find a licensed firearms safety course. 1 Find a licensed firearms safety course. In order to apply for a gun license, you will need to complete a firearms safety course. You can find one in several ways:
    • Visit the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, at www.mass.gov/eopss.
      • Follow the link to "Firearms Registration and Laws” in the top right corner of the page.
      • Select “Approved Basic Firearms Safety Courses" to access a complete list of courses approved by the state of Massachusetts.
    • Call the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security at 617-727-7775 to speak with someone about enrolling in one of the approved courses.
    • Contact the police department for the city or town where you reside, and ask them about upcoming courses in your area. For example, the City of Worcester lists courses directly on its website.
  2. Step 2 Enroll in and attend a firearms safety course. 2 Enroll in and attend a firearms safety course. The purpose for taking the course is to become educated on Massachusetts firearms laws, in addition to learning how to safely handle a firearm. Some courses are offered by local police departments, and some courses are offered by private companies. The basic firearm safety course will include the following:
    • shooting practice and training
    • understanding the parts of the firearm
    • understanding ammunition
    • safe storage and security of firearms
    • review of Massachusetts firearms laws (some private companies may offer broader classes that could satisfy applying for a license in other states as well)
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Complete the firearms safety course and collect your certificate. 3 Complete the firearms safety course and collect your certificate. After you successfully complete the firearms safety course, you will receive a Firearms Safety Certificate. You will need to submit a copy of this certificate when you apply for a Massachusetts gun license.
    4. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 4:

Obtaining and Preparing the Application

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Obtain the gun licensing application. 1 Obtain the gun licensing application. Your request for a gun license begins by completing the “Massachusetts Resident LTC/FID/Machine Gun Application” form. You can get a copy of the form from one of three possible sources:
    • If you have Internet access, you can print an application directly at home from the website of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.[1]
    • If you do not have Internet access, you can call the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security at 617-727-7775 to request an application by mail.
    • Alternatively, visit your local police station and request a copy of the application form.
    • Additional forms that you might need, such as an application as a non-resident, an application as a resident alien, or a Firearms Licensing Review Board Petition, may be found at the website of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Firearms Forms and Applications page.[2]
  2. Step 2 Fill out the gun license application clearly and carefully. 2 Fill out the gun license application clearly and carefully. You will need to complete the form carefully, either by typing or printing clearly and legibly all the answers. It is important that you read the instructions before completing the form. If you have any questions while completing the application, you should contact your local police department.[3]
  3. Step 3 Mark whether this is your first application or a renewal. 3 Mark whether this is your first application or a renewal. If this is your first application, indicate that you are a new applicant by placing a check mark next to "New Applicant" at the top of the form. If this is for a renewal license, you will check “Renewal” and provide your most recent license number.[4]
  4. Step 4 Indicate the type of gun license you are applying for. 4 Indicate the type of gun license you are applying for. For example, if you just want the license to purchase a firearm and keep it at home, then you need what is called an FID. Place a check mark next to "Firearms Identification Card.” If you are requesting permission to carry a firearm, you need the LTC license. You should select “License to Carry.”[5]
  5. Step 5 Provide your personal information in the fields provided. 5 Provide your personal information in the fields provided. You will be required to enter your name, address, the date and place of your birth, the names of your parents, your physical traits, occupation and employer information, and either your Social Security Number or drivers license number.[6]
  6. Step 6 Complete the questionnaire regarding your legal status. 6 Complete the questionnaire regarding your legal status. You will be asked for information regarding your citizenship, past convictions or felonies, whether you have ever suffered from mental illness, drug, or alcohol addiction, if you have ever been involved in domestic violence, and if there are any outstanding warrants for your arrest.[7]
    • If you answered "yes" to any of the inquiries on the questionnaire, you will be required to provide details about the circumstances surrounding each inquiry.
  7. Step 7 Provide the names and contact information for two personal references, not related to you. 7 Provide the names and contact information for two personal references, not related to you. In some cities or towns, you may also be required to submit a written letter of recommendation from these people. Check with the local police about this requirement.[8]
  8. Step 8 Explain why you are applying for a gun license. 8 Explain why you are applying for a gun license. The police need to monitor the number of applications they approve and the reasons for them. You need to be truthful in this step and not look for an answer that you believe the police want to hear. If you believe you need it for personal security, then say so. If you can provide more reasons (recent shootings in your area, etc.), that may help your explanation.[9]
  9. Step 9 Complete your application. 9 Complete your application. Sign and date the appropriate fields at the bottom of the gun licensing application. Your application will be incomplete without your signature and probably will be returned to you without being processed.[10]
    10. Advertisement
Part 3 Part 3 of 4:

Submitting the Application and Other Requirements

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Check with your local police department for all application requirements. 1 Check with your local police department for all application requirements. The state law sets the basic requirements for gun license applications, but the final decision is made by the local chief of police for each city or town in Massachusetts. Each police department has some leeway in the documentation that they require with each application.
    • For example, some towns require a copy of your birth certificate, but other towns will accept different forms of identification.
    • Some towns may require written recommendations from your two reference people; other towns would only require their names and contact information.
  2. Step 2 Make a copy of your Firearms Safety Certificate. 2 Make a copy of your Firearms Safety Certificate. In any city or town, for a new license, you will need to submit proof that you have completed a firearms safety training course. Have a copy with you when you submit your application.
  3. Step 3 Prepare the application fee. 3 Prepare the application fee. The license application fee is generally $100. Check with your individual city or town to verify the amount and the form of payment that is accepted.
    • For example, the City of Everett only accepts payment by money order. The City of Worcester will accept payment by cash, check or money order. For other cities or towns in Massachusetts, contact the police department directly.
    • The City of Billerica has instructions on its website that you are to get a Receipt for Payment form from the Police Station, take that form to the City Treasurer to pay the $100 fee and get the receipt verified, and then take the verified receipt back to the Police Station to submit with the application.[11]
  4. Step 4 Take the application and required materials to your local police department. 4 Take the application and required materials to your local police department. You should call the police department or check its website to see if there are certain times that they accept applications.
    • For example, the City of Worcester requires applicants to make appointments in advance, which are only scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays.
    • The City of Everett has a link on its website to schedule an appointment to submit your application.
    • The City of Billerica website instructs applicants to contact the clerk for information about applying, but no specific appointment information is included.[12]
    • If you need help locating the nearest police department, call the Massachusetts State Police at 508-820-2300 to find an office that will process your application.
  5. Step 5 Follow any additional instructions the Police Department requires. 5 Follow any additional instructions the Police Department requires. Some departments will require your fingerprints along with the application. After you submit your application, along with the accompanying materials, the police will run a background check both within Massachusetts and in any other states where you have lived, using the information provided on the gun licensing application. The police department will then inform you of the method and time frame in which you will receive your gun license.
    6. Advertisement
Part 4 Part 4 of 4:

Understanding the License Qualifications

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Be a resident of Massachusetts. 1 Be a resident of Massachusetts. All lawful residents of Massachusetts, regardless of official citizenship, are eligible to get a license to possess or carry a firearm in Massachusetts. There are some ways for a non-resident of Massachusetts to obtain a temporary gun license for a specific purpose. If this applies to you, then contact the police department for the city or town where you will be visiting.
  2. Step 2 Have a positive criminal record. 2 Have a positive criminal record. Your record does not need to be absolutely clean, but there are limitations. The state law is very clear that no gun license may be issued in Massachusetts to anyone who has been convicted of any of the crimes described below. If any of these apply to you, you should read the full text of the law carefully and consult with an attorney:[13]
    • a felony
    • a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of more than two years
    • a violent crime
    • certain crimes related to gun or ammunition possession, distribution or sale
    • certain crimes related to the use of controlled substances
    • misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence
  3. Step 3 Be free of mental disability or other health limitations. 3 Be free of mental disability or other health limitations. Nobody may hold a gun license in Massachusetts who has been committed to a hospital for mental illness, alcohol or substance abuse, or who has had a guardian appointed on the basis of mental incapacity, or who has been found to have an alcohol or substance use disorder. There are some exceptions, if the applicant is able to produce a doctor’s findings attesting that the condition no longer applies at the time of the application. If any of these descriptions apply to you, you should read the full text of the law carefully and consult with an attorney.[14]
  4. Step 4 Be of the appropriate age for the license you are seeking. 4 Be of the appropriate age for the license you are seeking. An applicant for a license to carry a firearm (LTC) in Massachusetts must be at least 21 years old at the time of filing the application. An applicant for a firearms identification card (FID) must be at least 15 years old, with parental permission. An applicant who is at least 18 years old can apply for an FID without parental consent.[15]
  5. Step 5 Be “suitable” to carry a gun license. 5 Be “suitable” to carry a gun license. The state law says that the license may be denied for anyone who is deemed “unsuitable to be issued” a license. The determination of whether you are “suitable” is up to the chief of police for the city or town in which you live and apply for the license. This determination is based on “reliable and credible information” that the applicant has engaged or may engage in behavior that would cause a risk or danger to society.[16]
    6. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Warnings

  • Your application for a gun license is a document that you are signing under oath. It is important that you complete it fully and honestly. If you provide any intentionally false information, you will not only be denied a license, but you also risk being prosecuted for perjury. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Get a Gun License in GeorgiaHow toGet a Gun License in Georgia Get a Gun License in North CarolinaHow toGet a Gun License in North Carolina Buy a Gun in New York CityHow toBuy a Gun in New York City Buy Firearms in CaliforniaHow toBuy Firearms in California Buy a Firearm in TexasHow toBuy a Firearm in Texas Apply for a CCW in CaliforniaHow toApply for a CCW in California Acquire a Gun License in New JerseyHow toAcquire a Gun License in New Jersey Buy a Firearm in VirginiaHow toBuy a Firearm in Virginia Buy a Gun in CanadaHow toBuy a Gun in Canada Buy a Gun in MissouriHow toBuy a Gun in Missouri Buy a Firearm in MichiganHow to Purchase a Gun in Michigan Register a GunHow toRegister a Gun Buy a Firearm in WisconsinHow toBuy a Firearm in Wisconsin Buy Firearms in PennsylvaniaHow toBuy Firearms in Pennsylvania Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  2. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/firearms-services
  3. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  4. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  5. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  6. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  7. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  8. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  9. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
More References (7)
  1. ↑ https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-firearms-license
  2. ↑ https://police.billericaps.com/index.php/firearms-licensing/
  3. ↑ https://police.billericaps.com/index.php/firearms-licensing/
  4. ↑ https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXX/Chapter140/Section131
  5. ↑ https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXX/Chapter140/Section131
  6. ↑ https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXX/Chapter140/Section131
  7. ↑ https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXX/Chapter140/Section131

About This Article

Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD Co-authored by: Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD Lawyer This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013. This article has been viewed 278,270 times. 20 votes - 82% Co-authors: 10 Updated: September 28, 2024 Views: 278,270 Categories: Guns and Shooting Article SummaryX

To own or carry a firearm in Massachusetts, you’ll need a gun license. Before you can apply for your gun license, you’ll need to complete a state-approved gun safety course. Once you’ve received your safety course certificate, get a gun license application form from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s website or your local police station. Choose whether you only want to keep a firearm at home or if you want permission to carry it. You’ll also need to include 2 personal references who aren’t related to you and pay the fee, which is usually about 100 dollars. Then, take your completed form to your police station. Keep in mind that you won’t qualify for a gun license if you’ve been convicted of a felony, violent or gun-related crime, domestic violence, or if you’ve been imprisoned for a misdemeanor or committed to hospital for mental illness or substance abuse. For more tips from our Legal co-author, including how to find a local firearms safety course, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish Russian
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 278,270 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Mike D.

    Mike D.

    Jun 24, 2019

    "This guide is written very well and provided great direction during the process of obtaining a LTC. It answers all..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD Co-authored by: Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD Lawyer Co-authors: 10 Updated: September 28, 2024 Views: 278,270 82% of readers found this article helpful. 20 votes - 82% Click a star to add your vote Mike D.

Mike D.

Jun 24, 2019

"This guide is written very well and provided great direction during the process of obtaining a LTC. It answers all..." more Ntobeko Gwabalanda

Ntobeko Gwabalanda

Feb 3, 2017

"Very helpful so I know what to do when I need a gun license. Thanks a lot for your help." Dee Tse

Dee Tse

May 7, 2017

"Great insight into the process. The entire article was engaging and informative." Victor Diaz

Victor Diaz

Mar 28, 2017

"Very helpful. Thanks." Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

Would I Be a Good Super Spy QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizWhat Piercing Should I Get QuizTake QuizCollege Recommendation ToolCollege Recommendation ToolAm I Funny QuizAm I Funny QuizTake QuizAm I Ready for College QuizAm I Ready for College QuizTake QuizWhat Would I Do As President QuizWhat Would I Do As President QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Get a Gun License in GeorgiaHow toGet a Gun License in GeorgiaGet a Gun License in North CarolinaHow toGet a Gun License in North CarolinaBuy a Gun in New York CityHow toBuy a Gun in New York CityBuy Firearms in CaliforniaHow toBuy Firearms in California

Trending Articles

Accurate IQ Checker Quiz: How Smart Am I?Accurate IQ Checker Quiz: How Smart Am I?Am I Autistic QuizAm I Autistic QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizDiscover the Secret Meaning of Your First NameDiscover the Secret Meaning of Your First NameWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizPractice KissingHow toPractice Kissing

Watch Articles

Amazing Super Bowl Party Ideas Guests Will Cheer ForAmazing Super Bowl Party Ideas Guests Will Cheer ForDevelop Listening SkillsHow toDevelop Listening SkillsNot Lose Your GirlfriendHow toNot Lose Your Girlfriend Draw an OwlHow to Draw an OwlTreat AllergiesHow toTreat AllergiesIntroduce Friends to Other FriendsHow toIntroduce Friends to Other Friends

Trending Articles

5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your Shape5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizCan We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Can We Guess If You're Single or Taken?Be PrettyHow toBe PrettyKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect KissKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect Kiss

Quizzes & Games

Traffic Signs TestTraffic Signs TestTake QuizStates and Capitals QuizStates and Capitals QuizTake QuizWhen Will I Die QuizWhen Will I Die QuizTake QuizWhat Animal Am I QuizWhat Animal Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Marvel Character Am I QuizWhat Marvel Character Am I QuizTake QuizAm I an Alcoholic QuizAm I an Alcoholic QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Sports and Fitness
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Guns and Shooting
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --800

Tag » How To Get A Gun License In Ma