QUICK GUIDE: How To Get Your MA Non-Resident License To Carry

QUICK GUIDE: How to get your MA Non-Resident License to Carry

For those folks that live in the states that border Massachusetts and carry a concealed firearm, it is good practice to obtain a MA Non-Resident License to Carry. This is especially true if you wish to pass through the state without issue or make any substantial stops within the state. There have been some recent changes to the process that you need to be aware of so be sure to continue reading.

THE PROCESS

Just like with the process we outlined in our post on How to Get Your Massachusetts License to Carry the process is pretty straight forward:

1. Take an Approved Basic Firearms Safety Course, such as our MA Gun Safety Course, from a certified instructor.
2. Download and complete the application
3. Send it in to the Firearms Record Bureau and wait to receive notification of your appointment being scheduled
4. Show up and complete the process.

Like I said… pretty simple. The only real hitch is the fact that you need to renew your MA Non-Resident License to Carry every year… which will cost you $100.

You can get the application here.

WHAT ABOUT RESTRICTIONS

Ah yes…. license to carry restrictions. They happen to be the bane of many a gun owner here in Massachusetts.

Some of the restrictions that are possible are: 

• NONE – the LTC is issued for all lawful purposes with no restrictions. Applicant must show good reason to fear injury to his person or property.
• EMPLOYMENT – restricts possession to business owner engaged in business activities or to an employee while engaged in work related activities, and maintaining proficiency, where the employer requires carry of a firearm (i.e. armored car, security guard, etc.). Includes travel to and from activity location.
• TARGET & HUNTING – restricts possession to the purpose of lawful recreational shooting or competition; for use in the lawful pursuit of game animals and birds; for personal protection in the home; and for the purpose of collecting (other than machine guns). Includes travel to and from activity location
• SPORTING – restricts possession to the purpose of lawful recreational shooting or competition; for use in the lawful pursuit of game animals and birds; for personal protection in the home; for the purpose of collecting (other than machine guns); and for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, cross country skiing, or similar activities. Includes travel to and from activity location.
• NO CARRY OUTSIDE RESTRICTION – allows possession of a firearm in MA provided the firearm is unloaded and locked in a container; licensee may possess and use firearm during restricted activity (employment, target, hunting, sporting) and during travel to and from activity location.

So what can be done?

There are really two solutions to this:

1. Be able to show a good reason to fear for your life or property
2. Have a license to carry in your home state.

Let’s break in to this a bit.

1. If you have a concealed carry permit in your home state you more likely than not have already been vetted to the N’th power regarding your suitability to lawfully carry a firearm. That being said… it is highly unlikely that the MA Firearms Records Bureau will deny or restrict your MA Non-Resident License to Carry. This is due to the fact that they would have to argue that somehow you’re incapable of carrying a firearm in Massachusetts, but can do so within your home state.
2. Be able to show a good reason! Have you been the victim of a violent crime? Do you carry large sums of cash or expensive equipment? Do you work as a firearms instructor? Do you own a business in Massachusetts.

Either of these reasons are helpful in getting your MA Non-Resident License to Carry. The bottom line is you do need to show a need or otherwise position yourself as there being zero reason for being denied the license.

RENEWING YOUR PERMIT

It will cost you $100 to for your initial application. As a non-resident, you will have to renew your license to carry every year as well… which will cost you $100. The good news is you will be able to renew this license by mail for the next four years after your initial application. The sixth year will require you to apply in person again to renew.

Pain in the ass? Yep. But… you will be able to carry your concealed firearm in Massachusetts which will be worth its cost.

GET AFTER IT

You will have your own reasons to get your MA Non-Resident License to Carry. The bottom line is you will not be able to get the process going until you decide to make the commitment to get it. Is it a process… but if you need help, let us know and we will guide you along!

Any Questions?

Do you have questions about getting your MA Non-Resident License to Carry? Leave your questions in the comment box or fill out a contact form below and we will answer them! Also don’t forget to share!

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