The Licensing Automation Program
Program Initiation
The Firearm Safety Act of 2013 (FSA) significantly modified and expanded the regulation of firearms and ammunition in the State of Maryland and made significant changes to related mental health restrictions on the possession of firearms. It also put in place:
- a new license - the Handgun Qualification License (HQL) deployed by October 1, 2013;
- a requirement for firearms applications submission via electronic means; and
- a requirement that MSP administer a handgun instructor licensing program
To meet these requirements, the Maryland State Police initiated the Licensing Automation Program, successfully deploying an automated Handgun Qualification License system on October 1, 2013. Following the HQL, Licensing Division began development of an online 'Portal' with automated applications and processes to address the additional licenses/permits administered by the Maryland State Police.
Current Status
- The 77R - Application to Purchase a Regulated Firearm
January 1, 2017, the
Licensing Portal went live with an online, completely automated 77R application.
- The Handgun Permit (Wear / Carry) Application
After two successful years of processing the electronic 77R applications, the Handgun Permit application was added to the
Licensing Portal in October 2019.
- Annual and Initial machine gun registrations were added to the Licensing Portal on March 1, 2021.
- Coming next is an automated process for Regulated Firearm Dealer registrations and renewals, and an automated application process for each of the professional licenses administered by MDSP.
