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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL)?

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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.

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✅ What the HQL Law Requires:

To obtain an HQL, Maryland residents must:

  1. Be fingerprinted for a background check conducted by the Maryland State Police (MSP).

  2. 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.)

  3. 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.

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🔒 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).

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Does Maryland recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

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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.)

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

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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?

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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.

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What instructor certifications do you hold?

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I hold the following active instructor certifications:

  1. NRA Certified Pistol Instructor

  2. Maryland Qualified Handgun Instructor

  3. Washington, DC Concealed Carry Instructor

  4. Utah Concealed Firearm Instructor​

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🔧 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.

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Last updated: May 2025

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