Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL)?

The Handgun Qualification License (HQL) was established under Maryland’s Firearm Safety Act of 2013 and went into effect on October 1, 2013. It is required for MD residents seeking to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun in Maryland.

✅ What the HQL Law Requires:

To obtain an HQL, Maryland residents must:

Be fingerprinted for a background check conducted by the Maryland State Police (MSP).
Complete a firearm safety training course, which includes both classroom instruction and a live-fire component. (Certain exemptions apply, such as for active/former military and law enforcement personnel.)
Submit an HQL application to the Maryland State Police's Licensing Division and pay the required fee.

Once issued, the HQL is valid for 10 years.

🔒 Note: An HQL does not grant the authority to carry a concealed handgun. For that, you must apply for a separate Handgun Wear and Carry Permit (HGP). **The MD Concealed Carry Course training exceeds the training requirements needed for the HQL, so taking the concealed carry course satisfies the training for both. While the HQL approval process is much quicker than the HGP, if you apply and are approved for the HGP, once you have your HGP you can apply for the HQL and get it for free. This can save you $115, as you will not need additional live-scan fingerprints ($65) and will not be required to pay the $50 processing fee. Some Instructors market their courses saying that the HQL is included for free, but this is the reason why it'll be free, you'll be applying for the HQL following the Permit Exempt Process where you'll provide your HGP number and expiration date. **

Does Maryland recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

No. Maryland does not recognize or honor any out-of-state concealed carry permits. To legally conceal carry in Maryland, you must have a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit (HGP). However, some other states do recognize Maryland’s HGP, allowing you to carry legally in those jurisdictions. (Always check each state’s laws before traveling.)

Does Washington, DC recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

No. Washington, DC does not recognize any other state’s concealed carry permit. To legally conceal carry in DC, you must apply for and obtain a DC Concealed Carry Permit (CCP). However, some states do recognize DC’s CCP, allowing you to carry legally there. As with all jurisdictions, it’s essential to verify local laws before carrying.

What states can you provide concealed carry training and certification for?

I currently offer certified training for the following states:

Arizona (AZ) – Multi-State
Connecticut (CT)
District of Columbia (DC)
Florida (FL)
Maryland (MD)
New Jersey (NJ)
New York (NY)
Pennsylvania (PA)
Rhode Island (RI)
Utah (UT) – Multi-State
Virginia (VA)

ℹ️ There may be additional states that accept NRA Instructor Certification as sufficient qualification to provide training for their concealed carry permits. The concealed carry nuances are covered in detail during your training session.

What's included with your courses and are there any additional costs?

In addition to the training, students will get the use of items needed for their live-fire qualification (i.e. firearm(s), ammo, ear & eye protection, target(s) and range fees) **Individual state processing fees and the cost for the required fingerprints and passport photos are not included in course cost. **

Can I bring and use my own firearm(s) if I have one?

Yes, you can bring and use your own firearm(s) but must bring your own ammo (at least 50 rounds).
When arriving to class you must make an instructor aware that you have your own firearm(s) and allow them to do a clearance check for safety purposes. If you already have your MD concealed carry permit you may bring it loaded, but it must be concealed and, in a holster, or case.
If you do not have a MD concealed carry permit (HGP), then you must bring your firearm(s) unloaded.

What instructor certifications do you hold?

I hold the following active instructor certifications:

NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
Maryland Qualified Handgun Instructor
Washington, DC Concealed Carry Instructor
Utah Concealed Firearm Instructor

🔧 Suggestions for Visitors:

Check out our Book Online Page for training options.
Visit our Training Videos Page for curated training videos.
Contact us directly with any additional questions.
Always verify laws before traveling with a firearm.
Consider downloading the US Concealed Carry Association’s (USCCA) Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map App from your App Store. It’ll help you determine where you can legally carry with your permits. You don’t have to be a USCCA member to use the app, but you will need to create an account for it to be accurate.

Last updated: September 2025