The Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is required in order to purchase, rent, or receive any handgun in the State of Maryland as of October 1, 2013.
Who needs the HQL?
Anyone who desires to purchase a handgun in the state of Maryland, new or used, is required to obtain a HQL prior to purchasing that handgun. If you own a handgun purchased prior to October 1, 2013, you are not required to obtain this license to continue owning your handgun – it is only required for new purchases. Active and retired law enforcement officers and military personnel (with valid ID) are exempt from the HQL requirement.
Obtaining an HQL
Step 1: Training
The first step in obtaining the HQL is to complete a firearms safety training course, such as the HQL class offered by Nomad Tactical Solutions. Approved training courses include a minimum of four hours of instruction covering state firearm law, home firearm safety, handgun mechanisms and operation, and handgun handling and operation. Students are required to fire at least one round during the course of training. The course must be taught by a Maryland Certified Instructor.
Qualified handgun Instructors, honorably discharged military personnel, employees of armored car companies with a carry permit issued for their job, lawful owners of regulated firearms or handguns, and persons holding a valid Hunter Safety certificate are not required to complete the firearms safety training course.
Step 2: Fingerprinting
Prior to submitting your HQL license, you must have obtained fingerprints via any LiveScan provider. A list of LiveScan locations can be found here.
Step 3: Apply
After completing steps 1 and 2 above, you are ready to apply. To apply, go to the Maryland State Police MyLicense website, create an account, and fill out the online application. You will need to submit the LiveScan ID you were issued at the time of your fingerprinting in order to complete the application.
That’s it! Your application will be processed and you will receive your license in the mail.