Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL)

Online pre-registration is required. A deposit may be required to reserve your seat.

Maryland law requires a minimum 4-hour training course for new handgun purchasers.

A person may not purchase, rent, or receive a handgun after October 1, 2013, unless they possess a valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) issued by the Maryland State Police. Certain exceptions apply.

Cost: $125

This course is instructed by a Qualified Handgun Instructor and includes the following minimum curriculum:

          Course Curriculum

          Overview of Maryland & Federal firearm laws, including:

• What constitutes a regulated firearm
   
• How to properly purchase or transfer a firearm
   
• Where firearms may be carried or transported
   
• When a carry permit is required
   
• Who is prohibited from possessing firearms
   
• Laws regarding minors and firearm safety
   
• Permissible levels of force and use of deadly force
   
• HQL application process
   

           Home Firearm Safety
          Instruction on safe firearm practices in the home, including:

• Preventing access by minors
   
• Proper locking and storage of firearms
   
• Use of safety devices such as lock boxes
   

          Handgun Mechanisms and Operation
         Overview of safe handling and operation, including:

• Handgun components and function
   
• Cleaning and maintenance
   
• Ammunition knowledge
   
• Loading and unloading procedures
   
• Fundamentals of pistol shooting
   
• Differences between revolvers and semi-automatic handguns
   
• Operation and Handling Demonstration
           A practical orientation demonstrating safe firearm handling, including:
• A required live-fire component conducted on site
   
• Firearm, ammunition, and personal protective equipment will be provided
  

Eligibility Requirement

Participants must NOT be prohibited persons under Maryland or                          federal law.

• Government-issued state ID

• Bottled beverages, snacks, and lunch
   
• A positive attitude
   

Do NOT bring any firearms or ammunition.

• Training is valid for 3 years and must be completed before submitting an HQL application.
   
• Not Included:
   
  • Required digital LiveScan fingerprinting ($50–$65)
     
  • Maryland State license fee ($50.00)
     

Note: If you owned a regulated firearm prior to October 1, 2013, you must still apply for an HQL; however, you are exempt from the training requirement.

                                               No refunds.