Maryland Gun Laws

Maryland has some of the more restrictive gun laws in the United States, with specific requirements for purchasing, carrying, and owning firearms. This guide covers Maryland’s gun regulations, including firearm purchasing requirements, concealed and open carry laws, restricted locations, and self-defense policies.

Maryland Gun Laws Overview

Purchasing Firearms in Maryland

Maryland requires additional permits, background checks, and waiting periods for firearm purchases, especially for handguns. The state enforces thorough measures to regulate firearms.

Key Requirements:

  • Permit to Purchase: A Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is required to purchase a handgun, though this does not apply to long guns.
  • Background Check: A state and federal background check is required for all firearm purchases from licensed dealers and private sales.
  • Waiting Period: Maryland imposes a seven-day waiting period for handgun purchases.
  • Minimum Age: Buyers must be at least 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns.

Handgun Qualification License (HQL)

Maryland requires a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) for those seeking to purchase handguns. To obtain this, applicants must complete a firearms safety training course.

Steps to Obtain an HQL:

  1. Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be 21 or older and legally eligible to own firearms.
  2. Training: Complete a state-approved firearms safety course, which includes live-fire training.
  3. Fingerprinting and Background Check: Fingerprints and background check documentation must be submitted.
  4. Application: Submit the application through the Maryland State Police website.

Open Carry in Maryland

Maryland does not generally allow open carry of handguns without a permit, and those who receive a permit typically choose concealed carry. Open carry of long guns, however, is generally permitted in areas not restricted by law.

Key Points on Open Carry:

  • Permit Required: Open carry of handguns requires a Wear and Carry Permit in Maryland.
  • Restricted Areas: Firearms are restricted in specific areas, including government buildings, schools, and private properties that prohibit firearms.
  • Vehicle Carry: Open carry of loaded firearms in vehicles is restricted, requiring a Wear and Carry Permit for handguns.

Concealed Carry in Maryland

Maryland is a “may-issue” state, meaning that local authorities have discretion in issuing concealed carry permits. Applicants must demonstrate a “good and substantial reason” to carry a concealed firearm.

How to Obtain a Wear and Carry Permit:

  1. Eligibility Requirements: Must be at least 21 (or 18 for certain employment purposes) and meet background check criteria.
  2. Good and Substantial Reason: Applicants must provide documentation of a specific need, such as self-defense or employment-related security.
  3. Training: Applicants must complete 16 hours of training for an initial permit and eight hours for renewal.
  4. Application Process: Submit the application through the Maryland State Police with all required documents and fees.
  5. Renewal: Permits must be renewed every two years.

Restricted Locations for Carrying Firearms in Maryland

Even permit holders in Maryland are restricted from carrying firearms in specific areas.

  • Schools and University Campuses: Firearms are prohibited on school grounds, including K-12 and college campuses.
  • Government Buildings: Firearms are restricted in courthouses, police stations, and other government facilities.
  • Private Property: Private property owners may prohibit firearms, and signs indicating these restrictions must be adhered to.
  • Public Transportation: Firearms are generally not allowed on public transit systems.

Assault Weapons and Magazine Capacity Limits in Maryland

Maryland has restrictions on assault weapons and magazine capacity:

  • Assault Weapons: Maryland bans the sale, transfer, and possession of certain semi-automatic firearms classified as assault weapons.
  • Magazine Capacity: Magazines that hold more than 10 rounds are restricted for sale, transfer, and manufacture, though possession is not restricted.

Self-Defense Laws in Maryland: Duty to Retreat

Maryland follows the Duty to Retreat principle, which means individuals must attempt to retreat from a dangerous situation if possible before resorting to deadly force. Maryland’s laws also include Castle Doctrine provisions.

Duty to Retreat

Maryland requires individuals to attempt to safely retreat from a threat before using force, except in situations within the home.

Castle Doctrine

Maryland’s Castle Doctrine allows individuals to use force, including deadly force if necessary, against intruders in their homes without the duty to retreat.

Firearms Prohibited Persons in Maryland

Maryland prohibits certain individuals from owning firearms, including those who meet state and federal criteria.

  • Felony Convictions: Individuals with felony convictions are generally prohibited from firearm possession.
  • Domestic Violence Convictions: Persons convicted of domestic violence or subject to active restraining orders may not possess firearms.
  • Mental Health Restrictions: Persons who have been involuntarily committed or found incompetent to stand trial due to mental health issues may be restricted from owning firearms.
  • Drug and Alcohol Use: Individuals with substance abuse issues, including controlled dangerous substance violations, may be restricted from possessing firearms.

Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Maryland

Maryland enforces penalties for firearm law violations, including fines, imprisonment, and firearm rights revocation. Common violations include:

  • Unlawful Possession: Possessing a firearm without meeting legal requirements or as a prohibited person can lead to severe penalties.
  • Carrying in Restricted Areas: Carrying a firearm in restricted locations, such as schools or government buildings, may result in fines and other legal consequences.
  • Assault Weapon and Magazine Violations: Possessing or transferring restricted firearms or magazines may lead to criminal charges.

Conclusion: Understanding Maryland’s Gun Laws

Maryland has strict regulations regarding firearm ownership and carry, requiring various permits and enforcing magazine and assault weapon restrictions. By understanding Maryland’s firearm laws and requirements, residents and visitors can responsibly own and carry firearms while adhering to state guidelines.

FAQs About Gun Laws in Maryland

1. Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Maryland?
Yes, you need a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) to purchase a handgun.

2. Is open carry allowed without a permit in Maryland?
No, open carry of handguns requires a Wear and Carry Permit.

3. Does Maryland have magazine capacity restrictions?
Yes, magazines are restricted to a maximum of 10 rounds for sale, transfer, and manufacturing.

4. Does Maryland allow constitutional carry?
No, Maryland is a may-issue state requiring permits for concealed or open carry of handguns.

5. What self-defense laws apply in Maryland?
Maryland follows the Duty to Retreat rule outside the home, but has Castle Doctrine provisions within one’s home.