Application to Buy Handguns Goes Online Jan. 1 in Maryland

The process of applying to buy a gun moves from paper forms filled out by hand to an online automated system in Maryland starting Sunday, Jan. 1, according to Maryland State Police. Authorities say the change is expected to increase efficiency and improve the process for both customers and firearms dealers.

State officials says the online process includes completing the application forms and paying the required application fee. All current web browsers are also supported by the new system, according to the state police.

The online process will be available on computers, tablets and mobile devices.

Before the switch, resident had to fill out a form and related paperwork by hand, then submit the materials to a firearms dealer or State Police barrack, which then forwarded everything to the Maryland State Police Licensing Division for background checks to be done.

State Police say little has changed in the questions and forms being completed as part of the purchase application process. Applicants will continue to provide the same information currently required on the Form 77R.

To use the online process an applicant must have an email account to receive follow-up and reminder correspondence from the State Police Licensing Division. Second, submission of the electronic application requires the use of a credit or debit card. All transactions with the Licensing Division regarding regulated firearm purchases will be done by credit or debit card only, beginning January 1. The $10 application fee will remain the same.

When the online application is completed by a firearm dealer or barrack, it will be submitted electronically to the State Police Licensing Division, rather than being mailed or faxed as has been done in the past. The electronic submission of the completed form by the dealer or barrack will begin the seven-day waiting period required by law, during which the required background checks are conducted to determine if the applicant is prohibited from purchasing a regulated firearm.

Further information is available by clicking on ‘Licensing Division,’ on the Maryland State Police website at mdsp.maryland.gov.

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