Leave it to our Commonwealth to make the Massachusetts License to Carry process a complicated and confusing mess. The vast majority of the rest of the free world United States has far less restrictive laws and processes in place to ensure the protection of their citizens’ constitutional rights but it is what it is when it comes to Massachusetts.
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My intent here is to explain to you the Massachusetts License to Carry process in simple, easy to understand, devoid of bovine excrement terms that will help you along the path of becoming a gun owner in Massachusetts.
The beauty of this post is you are getting information directly from me… a full time police officer. My partners and I have been in the gun safety course game for over six years now and being active law enforcement, we understand the ins and outs of Massachusetts Gun Laws like the backs of our hands.
So… without further ado… here is my breakdown on how to get your license to carry in Massachusetts:
The down and dirty version of how to get your license to carry is as follows:
There are over twenty different options to choose from when considering your Basic Firearms Safety Course… some of which will help you get your license to carry, and others will only allow you to apply for your firearms identification card. Depending on where you live, you also may be required by your town or city to attend a live fire training session before they will approve your application
As of now those towns are: Lowell, Weymouth, Quincy (Know of any others? Let us know in the comments.
Student enjoys live fire at our Foxboro Gun Safety Course
At the very least you will learn the following:
*Depends on your instructor and the class you are taking. We shoot REAL guns in all of our classes… NOT simulators
The classes that we offer are either LTC-007 or LTC-017 depending on who is teaching the class as we have instructors who are certified by the MA State Police for either.
After your class you will receive a basic firearms safety course certificate that will show that you have met all of the state requirements for your license to carry. It will look something like this:
Once your class is complete you can now head down to your local police department and apply for your license to carry! Call your local police department and see what they need you to do to set up an appointment with your licensing officer. Show up, bring a check or money order for $100, apply, and stand by to stand by. In a few weeks to a few months (it depends on how busy the PD is) you will be contacted and you can go pick up your license to carry.
If you want one? sure. Just keep in mind it will certainly restrict you to only non-large capacity rifles and shotguns. Even if you do not intend on carrying a firearm, don’t hold yourself back. Besides… you will need the LTC to purchase any handguns.
Just get the license to carry. It costs the same as the FID card.
OVER 21 YEARS OLD: Apply for the License to Carry, Class A
AGES 15-20: You will be stuck with a FID card, but can upgrade to a License to Carry at age 21.
Things that will prevent you from getting your license to carry in Massachusetts:
I hope that it is pretty clear already as to what you need to do but here’s a quick recap:
It really is pretty straightforward but like all of the simple things in life… we humans tend to make things complicated. This is also true with the Massachusetts License to Carry process… but we should be good to go now.
Do you have any questions on getting your Massachusetts License to Carry? Leave us a comment below and we will answer them! To get in touch with us for any outstanding questions, please don’t hesitate to call 855-276-5730 or fill out a contact form on our website!
Rob is co-owner of Tactical Dynamics Firearms Training and is a USMC veteran and active Law Enforcement Officer. Rob is a Sig Sauer Master Rated Firearms Instructor and holds several other ratings from various institutions.
Ron – I do not but simply explain in reasonable and logical terms why you wish to carry a concealed firearm and you will be good to go. You simply want to make yourself appear to be a reasonable and responsible person.
I have some minor arrest..but im 53 and this all happened in my 20s nothing to disqualify me but i have no idea what and when all this happens..its been 25 30 years ago what do i do? I want to be completely truthful but it was so long ago i don’t remember ..how can i get this information..i thought the background check would bring everything up?
A background check will show the arrest, but you want to be up-front about it on your application before they run the check. You can either ask them to run a check before you apply, or contact the courthouse that this took place in and request a copy of the paperwork.
Yes. One of the questions that you will have to answer will be if you have EVER been arrested ANYWHERE. Do not omit anything from you past as it will result in a denial. If you have a question about a particular event in your past, ask the licensing officer if it will need to be put down.
I was denied .y LTC with my local PD because I was untruthful question for arrest answered yes but didn’t explain I then was told to have Cori check done on Myself & re submit a new applucation with the Cori got my Cori with no sumary on it because my local court house doesn’t have records & I do have arrests what do I do now
Hi Stephen, You do need to be truthful and complete the application in its entirety. You should be good to go for the re-application as long as you’re not a disqualified person based on your background.
Do we have an updated green/red town listing. I heard Foxborough changed from red to green? Is that correct?
Does a “wet and wreckless” charge in California disqualify me from receiving my LTC-A license in Boston, Massachusetts?
Hi!
My brother in law is trying to get his LTC-a but for the reason he was told not to put “all lawful purposes”. What would be the best reason to
put down?
I bought a vacation home in Hyannis. Would I qualify? I have an FID in New Jersey and would like to go shooting in Ma when I come up.
I’m currently a FL resident, and have my concealed carry permit for the state. I’m moving back to Mass ASAP. I’m a combat vet, with 18 yrs of sevice, honorably discharged. Am I still required to go through these courses.
Hey thanks for being able to ask a question .
Do you think age ,meaning I’m elderly really don’t like that term,I’m sure it applies to some people but not me..
Could this be a factor I’m 85 physically and mentally active if they gave me a test physical or mental I’d pass it.
I guess my question is what do you think of my chances .
I’m a War veteran have my Firearm certificate made an appointment good to go before my “God” the LTC god that is .
Any info or tips on Obtaining a LTC unrestricted in New Bedford MA, I do have a letter from my work stating I frequent high crime areas and carry large sums of money from work deposits. I’ve been their for 11 years The application process is by appointment only and mine is Dec 28th. I heard you do not have to write a letter to the chief anymore if your looking for a unrestricted license. I tried to call and ask but after 10 phone calls still have yet to have someone pick up. Thanks
I was arrest twice for a/b over 20 years ago for try to stop my wife when she turn violent after a patty with friend, I dint hit her or fitting never convicted of any crime..do that record put me on the no-no list ?
Hi Rob,
My wife and I have taken a few of your classes and really enjoyed them. At the time we were living in Westford, MA and the LTC process was not an easy one. It took 8 months of pestering the Westford PD to get a response and the chef would not return calls. (idk if they normally do) Needless to say, I was denied and deemed unsuitable for items (no felonies) on my record dating back to 2010. Now in my defense, I was an ahole back then and the company I kept was not a good influence on me. I currently live in Worcester and was thinking about applying again because my wife and I really enjoy it and want to join a club/range. If i’m denied again is there some kind of procedure for me to defend my character and speak to my past? Thank you,
Steve
Ok I applied for my ltc and I was going to go into the army and I put down that I was going to go but never went well I called my town hall and the place I went when I was going to go and they said there is no history at all on me so I never swore into the army and I made the mistake of telling the local pd and they want a letter from the military saying I never went so when I called the vets office they told me to have them call and verify that I never went so I went back to the pd and told them and they keep telling me I need paperwork that doesn’t exist. So what do I do now I never had any record at all in my life I keep to myself and there’s no reason whatsoever to keep it from me but they are and I don’t know what to do.
Ok I applied for my ltc in uxbridge ma and I was going to go into the army and I put down that I was going to go but never went well I called my town hall and the place I went when I was going to go and they said there is no history at all on me so I never swore into the army and I made the mistake of telling the local pd and they want a letter from the military saying I never went so when I called the vets office they told me to have them call and verify that I never went so I went back to the pd and told them and they keep telling me I need paperwork that doesn’t exist. So what do I do now I never had any record at all in my life I keep to myself and there’s no reason whatsoever to keep it from me but they are and I don’t know what to do.
Hi Stanley, I would contact your local veteran’s agent in your town and they should be able to help you out with this. If not, I would try to have the recruiter that you went through for the Army write a letter documenting that you never shipped to boot camp. Honestly this is the first time that I have heard of such an issue.
Hi I just completed my course and am looking over the application, How does a person answer the question to “indicate the reasons you are requesting the license”? I don’t want to make a mistake in my answer!
In 2009 I came back from Iraq and was a little messed up and started drinking too much. I of course then got an OUI I was offered a CWOF but with no license was unable to attend the classses so I pled guilty.. It was the 1 and only time I was arrested,. Is there any way to somehow get my LTC back. I was a former Police Officer on 2 Departments and always had a Class A Large Capacity LTC. Any suggestions. Please
Hi i will like to know 1 1/2yrs ago i had a case of domestic violence with my ex step sister but the case was dismissed because she never went to the court days she never show up will that stop me from getting the license? I went and took the classes in 2013 too and pass but never went to the police station to get my license and i know its been 6years of that do i have to go get the classes again?
My town requires 2 letters of recommendation. Can you offer any suggestions for things they should or should not say in their recommendation? I am planning to speak with someone at the PD in my town about what they may be looking for, but was wondering if you had any ideas.
My son attends college in Massachusetts but is a resident of another state. He recently submitted his completed paperwork to the local MA PD for processing. They accepted his paperwork, but told him he needed to get a MA driver license or he would be subject to arrest even with the MA LTC permit. That seems questionable to me. I would appreciate your opinion on that issue.
My opinion on this would be for him to apply for an out-of-state license, rather than try for an actual resident license. I don’t know that he could even obtain a MA driver’s license since he’s not a MA resident. If he applies for out=of=state, then he shouldn’t need to worry about the driver’s license part. FWIW, it’s unlikely his college would allow him to store or carry on campus grounds. In fact, if it’s a public university, it is illegal to have a firearm on school grounds.
I used to have my fid witch i got after having my record sealed , since the laws passed i did not keep up with it and now it has since expired. My question is since i was a convicted felon for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute over 35 years ago and had my record sealed and was approved for an fid afterwards would i stand a chance in getting my ltc now.
Hello. Since you will basically be applying for a fresh license, the fact that you used to have an FID won’t mean much. In this case, your best bet would be to contact your local police department and speak to either the chief or the officer processing firearms license applications. Depending on the circumstance of the conviction, you may still be able to get a license, but it is up to that department. They will still see the case when they run your background, even with a sealed record. So check first and go from there. Good luck.
Hi I put In my application for my LTC renewal in August 21 2019 it’s now January 28 2020 and I’m still waiting … what should I do should I be talking to a lawyer at this point .. no return phone call from local police and when I walk in on Tuesday or Thursday when applicants. Should be applying at police station no one there to help lol any help would be great in which direction I should be head
Hello. Unfortunately the application process takes as long as it takes. The only thing I can recommend is keep attempting to contact the PD. Perhaps see if you can be directed to the Chief. If you want to involve a lawyer, you can, but I cannot tell you if it is necessary at this point.
After many years of not being able to get my ltc (EX HUSBAND GOT MY CT LICENSE RENEWAL AND THREW IT OUT). I am now in Mass, I filled out the application wrong because i did have something on my record . the lawyer i had then said i didnt need to worry because everything was dismissed with no finding. So after going through the class , we moved to where i am now. When i filled out the app, on the question about arrests i answered no because “to the best of my knowledge” i believed i was able to say no. I was denied and am now well over the 90 days. This is very upsetting to me. Can i reapply?
Thank you
Lyn
Hello Lyn. You could try, but since you have previously been denied they may decide that you are unsuitable for a license. I would have your lawyer go through the paperwork and make sure it is being filled out correctly. You can also contact your local police department and speak to them regarding the issues you’ve been having. As long as you approach them reasonably, they should work with you. If you get denied again, you could go through the appeal process which will involve taking the local PD to court over the licensing. Good luck!
On the application it lists reasons for applying as unrestricted, target and hunting, sporting, and employment.
Do I assume that unrestricted means all of these categories?
Hello Stephen. Unrestricted includes all those categories, as well as concealed carry. If you are filling out the application, it is always best to go for the unrestricted license.
Hello
This is a very informative page. I am a Massachusetts resident since 2001. I have two questions: 1 I took and completed a firearms safety course 12/2018. I never proceeded to finish the application process…Is my course completion still valid at this time 3/2020 to apply for my LTC? 2 I have an Drunk Driving charge in 1993 California will that charge prevent me from obtaining a LTC? Thank you
Hello Richard. The certificate should still be good even if the class was in 2018. Just contact your local PD and make sure they don’t have an issue with the certificate being a bit old. You will likely run into trouble regarding the DUI charge. In MA, a guilty conviction on a DUI is a dis-qualifier when you apply for the license. You could try going through a lawyer, but it is likely you will denied with that charge in your background. If it wasn’t a guilty, you have some chance, but it will be tough. Good luck!
Hi there! I took LTC course August 2019. Is there a time limit for applying from date of earning course certificate?
Hello Patty. There shouldn’t be any issue with using a certificate dated in 2019. As long as the instructor credentials are still valid on the actual cert, the PD shouldn’t have any issue with it. If you took the course with us, and need a replacement certificate or class, just reach out to us directly and we’ll get you squared away. Thanks.
Hello Rob,
Great article. I am relocating to the area (from a state where I currently have a CCW permit) for a job. The job will be located in Natick, MA. Do you know a recent list of “green” towns or a few towns near Natick that I could live and qualify for an LTC for personal protection? Exercising my second amendment right and carrying for personal protection is very important to me and I want to ensure that the town I live in does not deny that. Thank you for your time.
Respectfully,
J.
Hello. Below is a link to the MA Green/Red town list. I believe most places near Natick will be green, but double check where you are looking on the list. Thanks.
https://www.northeastshooters.com/xen/threads/guide-to-gun-rights-in-your-massachusetts-town.8703/
Hi! I am an active duty service member currently stationed in Chicopee. I will only be here for another year… is it worth attempting to apply for LTC? If so, do I need the Basic Course given I am a SM? Also, will I be considered resident or non-resident? Thank you in advance.
Hello. Since you are active you can use your DD-214 to apply in Chicopee. You don’t have to do the basic safety course, but we recommend it so that you can learn and abide by MA gun laws. The license will be considered a resident license while you are on orders. Hope this helps and thank you for your service!
Good Afternoon.
I have a question about a specific felony where I was not incarcerated but got probation and plead guilty. Would an insurance fraud conviction disqualify me for my ltc if it has been long enough to have it sealed? I live in Spencer MA, Thank you
J R
Hello. Unfortunately any felony conviction is an automatic disqualification from licensing. It is actually illegal for you to even touch a firearm with the guilty conviction on your record.
Now another question I served probation and was not incarcerated would that make a difference because it was not a violence, oui, or drug offense
Oh I forgot to mention my probation that I served was over almost 10 years ago and I have had no trouble since
Hello. Your initial question indicated that you plead guilty. That is the disqualification criteria, not that you only served probation. If you want to discuss this further, you should contact James Wise at james@tacdynamics.com. Thanks.
Good morning. I was wondering if there is an updated Red Green Town list? I have had a large capacity, LTC for six and a half years now, as a resident of Acushnet. I am looking into buying a home in another town on the south coast but I am concerned about running into a town that is opposed to carrying. I’m good for quite a few more years as I just renewed my LTC this year but eventually it’ll be up for Renewal again and I don’t want to find out that I bought a house in a town that is difficult. I’ve never had an issue whatsoever with the law nor with my LTC and I take pride in being a responsible gun owner. Any information about Which towns are green versus red would be greatly appreciated.
Hello. Here’s a link to the list that we use. Since this is updated by users, it’s not 100% but there’s nothing more official so it’s the best we have. https://www.northeastshooters.com/xen/threads/guide-to-gun-rights-in-your-massachusetts-town.8703/
I have taken my firearms safety class and got some shooting in before applying for my LTC. I will be having the interview this week and I have a question regarding “mental illness”. On the application, I didn’t even think about it but it was brought to my attention that I did have a bout of depression once over 25 years ago. It was a situational incident and was resolved rather quickly. 25 years have passed and I have not had any problems. I do not drink, smoke, or use drugs. I am a nurse by trade, who graduated at the top of my class. I was a security officer for 10 years after high school. I have never been arrested, had any run-ins with the law, etc. I guess I just want to be sure that I am providing truthful information. If you were to ask me if I have a history of mental illness, I would say NO without even thinking about it because it was so long ago. I am not on any prescription medications and don’t have any medical/health issues, except for hearing loss, which is corrected with hearing aids. Any recommendations in case this comes up at the interview? I doubt that there are any medical records in existence today, since the practice has since closed, but I don’t want to be accused of lying or trying to hide anything, either. Thanks.
Hello. It is unlikely that any question would come up regarding this, provided there were no arrests or anything during the incident. MA doesn’t hold a history of mental illness against you unless treatment was involuntary, i.e. court ordered. If it were to come up for any reason, I would just say that you had an incident 25 years ago, sought treatment of your own accord, and have been well since.
Hi, I will be completing a Massachusetts Basic Firearms Safety Coarse August 1st. I am a NH resident and have my NH Concealed Carry Permit. I also Had my Utah Multi-State concealed carry permit but let it lapse so I am taking this class again with the Mass Basic class. What are the steps for a Non-Resident Application? What Police Department would I apply at for the Massachusetts CC permit? Thanks,
Hello. The Gun Owner’s Action League has a good article about how the non-resident process works. Check it out and let us know if you have any follow-up questions. Thanks! https://goal.org/non-resident-license-info/#:~:text=The%20procedure%20requires%20all%20applicants,them)%20and%20proof%20of%20training.
If my town (Hudson) won’t let me say For All Lawful Purposes on unrestricted, what do I say – I’m looking for self defense
You can use something like: “I am a law abiding citizen and desire to carry a firearm for personal protection.” Pretty reasonable reason, plus it says up front that you are looking for an unrestricted license. Other good reasons might include that you work with large sums of money or expensive equipment, you are in-and-out of high-crime areas frequently, you live in a high-crime area, etc. These reasons will only work if they apply for you, or course. Good luck.
Hello, I was wondering if you have your record sealed for a felony do you have a chance at getting your LTC, thank you
Depending on the result of the charge, you might be OK. If it was a guilty conviction though, you won’t get able to get a MA LTC. If you want to discuss this in further detail, I recommend contacting our Director of Training, James Wise at james@tacdynamics.com. Thanks.
How long should you give the state of Massachusetts before you call about the status of your license application?
It’s dependent upon the town as to how long things will take. If you haven’t had any communication in a month or so, it’s worth a call to the police department you applied with. However, they might not have any answer for you since once it leaves there it does go up to the state and then back.
Hi there,
I am currently in the military and in the process of becoming a corrections officer just waiting out the process. To become a CO you need to obtain a LTC. I have heard different things in regards to obtaining and LTC while also being in the military. Will I still have to take the safety course? Thank you in advance.
Hello. You should be able to present a DD-214 form as “proof of training” to your local police department so that you can obtain the LTC. I would just contact them and confirm this is an option with them. Otherwise, you may be required to take a MA Gun Safety Course like the one offered on our site. Thanks.
Will I need to replace my driver’s license with a new address or simply use my current one with the new address written in the back? Thanks.
Your driver’s license address doesn’t have much to do with the licensing process. You’ll apply in whatever town you currently reside in, regardless of what it says on your license. If it’s different, you may want to ask the Police Department you are applying with if they’ll need proof of your address when you apply.
What happens after I submit my application and the city police chief says he sees no issue. regarding my record. He said wait 100 days. Is there another organization that can deny it?
It could be denied on either the local or state level. Did he say why you needed to wait 100 days? That doesn’t make any sense from our perspective. He might mean that it could take 100 days for the license to come back and you can come to get it. You should ask for better clarification on the reasoning behind the 100 days.
Hello Rob! I am at a lost on how to answer on the application for LTC. I was arrested before in 2009 but was able to have my record sealed. I recently did a CORI check on myself and there was no records to be found. I believe legally I can put that there was no previous arrest but I’m unsure how to move forward. I have taken the basic safety class and I am very eager to get my license. Thank you for your time!
Hello. It doesn’t matter if your record was sealed. It will show up when they run a background check on you through the NICS system. You need to disclose this arrest on the application where it asks if you’ve every appeared as a defendant in a criminal case. Depending on the disposition of the case, it likely won’t impact the application process. But if you aren’t truthful on the application, they can deny you the license because of it.
Good evening!
I completed a basic firearms safety course, but it was about 4 years ago, and I never applied in the town I formerly resided in. In an effort to obtain my LTC, can I use this cert or am I better off taking another course, to have a newer one? Would that make a difference? Thanks in advance
You’d be best to contact your local PD to see if they’ll accept the certificate. The certificates technically don’t expire, but if the PD wants to they can ask you to retake the course.
Hi I have my interview for my LTC this Saturday and Tips? Wondering what to expect any guidance is appreciated.
It’ll likely be more of an informal conversation. Don’t stress about it and answer questions honestly. If they ask why you are looking for a license, just say something along the lines of personal protection and other uses. Don’t worry too much about it! Good luck.
My female friend is applying for a license to carry against my better judgement. This person #1 smokes Marijuana 24/7 365. She just let her Medical Marijuana Card expire in an effort to beat the system as explained to me to get a gun license. She says she needs one year without her Medical Card and she is clear. But, the smoking doesn’t stop. Illegal drugs are easy to get so letting her Medical Card is not a deterrent. Her friends just buy the Marijuana & Candies for her. Nothing changes. Now, on top of all the Marijuana, she has been taking prescribed pain killers for years. I know one to be Tramadol 4 times a day. I had surgery a few years back and my doctor prescribed Tramadol. I took one and I thought I drank 4 beers. She called me a wimp. If Her ability as a con artist earned her money she’d be rich. Plus, she has a temper like you wouldn’t believe. Road rage is her Forte. If we are in a car together I would never allow her to drive. Her latest kick is to join the Trump supporters and start kicking some ass as she says. She can’t wait for the next rally in Boston to kick some butt. I just shake my head. To make this short for you. IMO this person should never carry a gun in public for so called needed protection. Somebody will say the wrong thing to her some day then it’s too late. I have tried to explain the Stand Your Ground laws in MA and there’s no understanding it. She only sees the law as it should be in her mind. The simple deterrent is a Drug test. You don’t pass, you don’t get a permit. It’s simple. But, if she is let loose in the streets with a gun, eventually lives will be altered that could have been easily avoided. It’s something for those issuing the licenses should think about. Thanks for your time
Hello Thomas. The medical marijuana card and firearms rules remains a bit of a grey area in MA. State law doesn’t prohibit someone from getting licenses while holding a medical marijuana card. It is unlikely, however, that the local PD will approve a license to someone holding a card without restricting it and barring that person from being able to conceal carry. Now, the marijuana usage is illegal on a federal level, and the firearms purchasing form 4473 does specifically ask about marijuana use. See below: e. Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance?
Warning: The use or possession of marijuana remains unlawful under Federal law regardless of whether it has been legalized or decriminalized for medicinal or recreational purposes in the state where you reside. So if she did end up receiving her license, and went to a gun store and filled out this form answering NO to the above question, then she’d be breaking federal law. I hope this helps you with your predicament.
I got my LTC in Springfield, MA which is apparently “RED”. I want to get a concealed carry so called the SPD and asked what I needed to do. They said I needed to take a “Personal Protection Outside the Home” course, then apply. Is this accurate. Is it likely I’ll take the time get the training but still not get it?
The “Personal Protection Outside the Home” is an NRA course. If that’s what they are telling you that you need for an unrestricted LTC then that’s what you need. They’re the ones who make the decision on the restrictions.
I tried to set up appt with local police to drop off application and get fingerprints. I just took my gun safety course. They said send in application and fee but they are no doing fingerprints at this time. It’s my understanding that I will not get approved with fingerprints. Is this legal to refuse to do the steps needed for me to get a gun.
That’s a big gray area that’s happening with the COVID restrictions these-days. I recommend reaching out to the Gun Owner’s Action League and speaking with them. They’ve been really active going after departments who are refusing to process applications. Good luck!
As far as we understand it, Boston does require a shooting qualification with Boston PD. Though we have been hearing that they’ve suspended that requirement recently due to COVID. But as far as we know, the surrounding areas do not require live fire. If you have some info on that we’d love to hear it! Thanks.
I heard I can’t be a consumer of marijuana and own a gun, but I don’t see the question asked on the application. Where does this come up?
That question isn’t on the actual firearms licensing question. It is however on the FA-10 form that you’d fill out when you go to buy a gun from a store. This is because marijuana is legal on the state level but not on the federal level. So you’ll likely be able to get a license, but then would only be able to get a firearm through a personal transfer through http://www.mass.gov and the EFA-10 form. If you go to buy a firearm from the store and answer incorrectly to the marijuana question on the transfer form, you’d be breaking federal law.
Hello,
I was arrested for a felony but the case was dropped and sealed. Will I be disqualified? When asked about convictions I have none but what do i put down for arrests? Just whats on my core and background check? Thank you.
It would depend if you went before a judge to determine the case. If you did, then you have to disclose that on the license application. It will come up in your background check because it is a check through the criminal system. It’s much more involved than an employment background check.
Hi Jeff, my only arrest in my lifetime was in 1994 for misdemeanor domestic assault and battery. The charge was dismissed with a disposition of non conviction after my wife spoke with the DA and explained that it was just an argument. I have a copy of the CORI report showing the dismissal. Do you think I will have problems with my LTC application in Plymouth, and should I attach a copy of the CORI report to my LTC application? Thanks for any info.
Hello. Since the domestic charge did not end up in a guilty conviction, it is unlikely they would use it to deny you your license. They may, however, decide to restrict it. Attaching a copy of the dismissal would be a good idea, since they’ll likely ask about it when you put in your application.
Hello, Jeff. I was interested in applying for my LTC. I have a single blemish on my record: a charge of open and gross lewdness that was reduced to Indecent Exposure (public urination at a concert) and dismissed via CWOF. This was back in 2009. I know it’s not an automatic disqualifier but any chance it could be used to deny me?
Hello. I doubt that a charge like that would result in a denial. They can still restrict you if they so desire, but as long as you haven’t had any further interactions with law enforcement I don’t think it would count too much against you. Good luck!
Myself and my mother woukd like her to get her ltc, however, about 20 years ago my father took out a restraining order on her. I have no idea how he managed that since he was the violent one, not her, but anyhow. I believe that automatically disqualifies her. Could you confirm that as I haven’t been able to find a definitive answer. Thank you.
Hello Valerie. An active restraining order does disqualify someone for getting an LTC. However, if the restraining order is no longer active, then she won’t be disqualified.
I used to live in NH and had a license to carry there. on the application it asks have you ever had a LTC before and what was the permit number.. I no longer have it. do I need it?
You shouldn’t need it. I would indicate that you did have a NH carry permit but don’t have it any longer and therefore don’t have the number.
Once you get OK’d for a LTC by your local police department, how long does it take to get the actual license? Thank ynou
It really depends. Once you pass in the application, the town does their background check. Then they send it up to the state for another check, and then it comes back to the town. Right now a lot of departments are getting overwhelmed with applications, so the process is getting longer. I would keep checking in with your local PD maybe every week and seeing if you can get an update. Good luck!
I took my firearms safety course. I turned in my firearms application and Safety Course Certificate at the Arlington Police Dept. I have an interview at the APD on March 11. I am told to bring my drivers license, my rental lease and a check for $100.00 Do you think I will receive my LTC permit the very same day after the interview?
You won’t get the license until the PD and state have run background checks. Typical waiting times these days can range from a few weeks to a few months. Ask them if they have an idea about the turn-around time for licensing with their department. Good luck.
I took the LTC Safety class 2 weeks ago how long do I have to file the paperwork for the background check I have to go out of town for a few weeks so it will be about a month before I get to fill out background check paperwork is this ok
That’s fine. There’s technically no expiration date on the certificates, and generally as long as you apply within 2 years the PD won’t have an issue with it.
I just finished my safety course. I ran a cori check myself and it came back with one domestic assault and battery arrest with no conviction. But I was arrested in 09 in Florida for assault and battery also not convicted and I had a restraining order in 2011 dropped after a week. Do I need to mention all of the above in my application. Also are any of these disqualifications even though I was never convicted? Thanks.
Hello. You will have to mention the A&B charges on your application since they are felony charges. Since you were never convicted, it is unlikely that you would be disqualified from getting the license. However, you may want to check with your local police department and talk to them about this since they’ll be making the determination for your license. They could potentially deem you unsuitable for a license and point to the charges as a reason. That’s why I’d recommend reaching out to them before coming to the class to see how they’ll approach this were you to apply.
I held a MA LTC for 18 years and then moved to Ohio for 7 years. Now moving back to MA. Do I need to re-do the Safety Course? Or do my past MA LTC and my OH CCW training cover me?
Thanks!
You’ll need to redo the safety course since your MA licenses will have expired and your primary residence changed. The OH CCW course doesn’t mean anything to the licensing authorities in MA.
Hi and thanks for your help. I live in Burlington ma. I was denied for an ltc because it said I lied on question 4. But I have never been arrested or appeared in court other than a divorce. Is it possible they messed up and looked at the wrong person
It is possible. At this point you’d need to contact a firearms attorney and get the process going for an appeal. I recommend contacting the Comm2A organization for help finding an attorney. Good luck.
Can you get an LTC with a misdemeanor possession with intent to distribute marijuana charge that you had a CWOF for ?
Possibly. It depends on how your town will treat the charge. I recommend contacting them first to see if they’d be willing to proceed with the license process provided you take the course. That way you can find out if they’ll move forward.
I recently applied and was denied an ltc in Waltham for being “unsuitable”. I was upfront on my application, no felonies just a couple hiccups from years ago. Is this disqualifier worth arguing against in court?
That’s really up for you to decide. I’d recommend contacting a firearms attorney and seeing what they have to say. You should look into the Comm2A organization. They have a lot of attorneys who specialize in this kind of thing. Good luck!
Hi
I’m a NH resident in the process of moving to North Attleboro. I’ve had my NH pistol permit for 28 years, since I was 18. I’m looking to apply for my Ltc. I have a dwi from 1999 on my record in NH. Will that disqualify me from obtaining a license?
Thank you
If that DWI was a guilty conviction, then yes. It is was dismissed or continued without a finding, or not guilty then you have some wiggle room.
What if I was applying for an armoured truck guard with Loomis? Would that have any bearing on my application. I was a guard up in Maine a couple of years ago.
Thank you for replying to my previous question.
That likely won’t have any influence on the application. Maine and MA have different processes, so it won’t make a difference here.
Good Day,
i have my license but it is restricted to just target and sportsman. How do i get that to non restricted?
Depending on where you live, you might be able to get an unrestricted license when you renew. Taking additional training courses always makes you look better when you reapply as well.
Hi,
On the application it asks if you’ve gone by other names. 30 years ago I was very briefly married. I never legally changed my name. May have signed his last name on things here and there.
Can I just use my maiden name and not mention I was married. People in my town don’t know that little bit about me.
Thank you
If you’ve never legally changed your name you shouldn’t need to put it down. I recommend double checking with your local PD though just to be safe. Thanks.
Hi ,
I applied for my LTC ( Medford Ma. ) and was restricted to hunting and target only. have a clean record, am 67 yrs. young and took the license to carry course with Boston Firearms w/ live fire. what would be my best recourse to get the LTC ?
Thanks,
Rich Alessi
You could look at taking additional training, such as our Use of Force/Home Defense/Concealed Carry course and then when you renew your license with Medford produce proof of further training. PD’s like to see things like that and it might get you the unrestricted license.
I took a Gun Safety Course at Cape Gun Works in late January 2020, along with my sister and brother-in-law. I did not fill out my application for LTC until 02/23/21, and went to local police station to submit the application the same day. The next day I was called in for fingerprinting. My sister and brother-in-law applied about a week or so AFTER I did. My brother-in-law got his LTC in late March. My sister got hers a few weeks later.. I have heard nothing. I contacted the Barnstable Police Department Records division around 04/24/21, and they told me it was “still on the sergeant’s desk for background check.” I was advised I could email the sergeant directly, which I did. I never heard back from him. It has now been over 90 days since I applied and no word. I checked again with Records last week; total silence. I assume that, if I was denied, I would be notified. I heard that an appeal must be made in MA within 90 days of denial, but since I’ve heard nothing, I can’t appeal. What’s my next step?
Unfortunately there isn’t really any next step after the paperwork has been submitted. You are at the mercy of the department processing your paperwork. If you are denied, they do have to inform you via a letter, so don’t lose hope. It might just be taking a while. Sometimes when something like this happens it’s because there is someone with a similar name in the system and they have to verify who is applying. Maybe see if you could get a phone number for the Sgt and try that. Good luck.
I live in Springfield, a red city. If I receive a restricted LTC, does that prevent me from using a firearm for self-defense?
No. A restricted license prevents you from being able to carry a firearm in public, but you can still have one at home for self defense.
Hello Jeff I am waiting for reply for my ltc I been waiting for three months since fingerprints . The only problem is I misunderstood question 4 about being arrested I thought it was asking if I been arrested for any felonies or mistermeaniors which I wasn’t I was arrested for suspended license but it was. So long ago how can I correct this I have no felonies or mistermeaniors I just misunderstood the question
You should get in touch with the department doing the licensing. If they find that error before you correct it, they may deny you the license due to being untruthful on your application. There still might be an issue since it’s likely left their hands at this point and it at the state for the background check. At any rate, contact them quickly and explain the issue.
With the way our gun rights are getting stripped away, I’m glad I got my concealed carry permit this year. If anybody’s looking to get their CCW, these instructional videos were really helpful in getting me ready for my permit: http://www.concealed-carry-site.com
Quick, probably dumb question… 25 yrs ago when I was a moron and had no idea that decisions I made then would potentially effect me for life.. Long story short, I caught a larceny over 500 charge. I realize that’s a felony however I read on the Everett police’s website that if your crime was not violent and was 5 years from date of application, it shouldn’t disqualify you. Thoughts?
If that’s what they’re saying then that’s how they’ll treat the license. I would contact them anyways and just get clarification because the background check also goes up to the state level which is where that felony might stop you. Good luck.
Thanks for the advice. I assume my CORI must not be too too bad because I was cleared by the State to care for adults with differing levels of special needs. I would assume the criteria would be somewhat similar. Here goes nothing! Hopefully I’ll get past the initial hurdle so I can participate your course.
I applied for LtC 5+ years ago and was denied because of my juvenile record, I got my record sealed and moved to a different town. Will I be able to obtain my LtC?
Hello. I’d recommend contacting your local department and ask them the question. The record may be sealed but the denial will still be on the record and they’ll need an explanation. Once they give you an idea you can proceed from there. Good luck!
I handed my pistol permit application and had fingerprints taken exactly 4 months ago and have not heard anything yet. Is there something I should do, or just be patient and wait?
You could try contacting your local department and seeing if they can provide an update. 4 months is in the middle of the current wait times as we are seeing them, so I wouldn’t say it’s a cause for concern yet.
Hello. I am attending a Massachusetts LTC Basic Safety Training course this week. I was planning on immediately filling out my application for my LTC with my local police department but after reading through these comments I have a question. I live in a red city and was wondering if I should wait and attend more safety courses that apply to a LTC to avoid getting a restricted LTC as I would much rather obtain an unrestricted LTC. Is this something you would recommend? Also, I am 22 years old and was wondering if you think they will hold my age against me when applying? Thank you.
Hello. There aren’t any further safety courses that are necessary for the application, but some PD’s look more favorably on those that have taken additional training. Stuff like legal courses, use of force rules, and the like are typically looked at better than additional range-style courses. So I’d recommend you take additional training if you think it will help your cause. It’s unlikely that they will hold your age against you. Good luck!
Hello, I am a Boston resident, and possess an FID which I’ve had for over 6 years. I want to upgrade to an LTC but I am afraid due to the strict laws. Getting my FID was smooth sailing but I was told the LTC will be tough. Back in 2001 I was subject to a restraining order, which is no longer active and I have no criminal history. My question is, is there any reason I could be denied? I will appreciate any information you have in helping me obtain my LTC. Thank you…
Hello. Depending on the circumstances of the restraining order, they could deem you unsuitable for an LTC. I don’t believe that is very likely though. What is more likely is that they will restrict the license so you won’t be able to carry it on you person daily. That is very common for Boston. Good luck!
