Course Information

Maryland Wear & Carry overview and important information for students. Range qualification instructions are provided on separate pages.

Maryland Wear & Carry Permit Training

This course is designed to meet Maryland’s Wear and Carry Permit training requirement through a structured program that combines classroom instruction with a live-fire qualification. The Maryland State Police require a 16-hour course for initial applicants and an 8-hour course for renewals. Training must be conducted by a Maryland-qualified handgun instructor. Course completion documentation is provided for permit submission.

Instruction includes state and federal legal concepts relevant to responsible defensive carry, including the lawful use of force in self-defense, defense of others, and defense of property. The course also covers safe firearm handling and storage, including practical guidance for secure storage at home.

Additional topics include how someone becomes a prohibited possessor, general firearm legal requirements, straw purchases, prohibited locations, and home firearm safety. Students are introduced to handgun mechanisms and operation, as well as shooting fundamentals such as grip, stance, and sight picture. Each course also includes discussion of basic concealed carry options.

The curriculum also addresses conflict de-escalation and resolution, as well as suicide prevention, as part of a broader focus on responsible firearm ownership and decision-making.

Important: This overview is provided for general informational purposes. Students are encouraged to review the official Maryland State Police Wear and Carry Permit website for current requirements, forms, and application guidance. Maryland State Police – Wear & Carry Permit Information

Student Resources

What to Bring

  • Clothing suitable for various temperatures
  • Closed-toed shoes (no open-toed shoes will be allowed)
  • A brimmed hat may be helpful if we’re shooting outdoors
  • If you own a firearm and would like to use it during training, bring it unloaded and secured in a case
  • If you’re bringing a firearm, ensure you have sufficient ammunition

Downloads

Student handouts, practice drills, and gear checklists will be provided as applicable.

Safety reminder: Keep all firearms cased and unloaded until instructed otherwise. Follow all range commands and instructor direction.

Range Qualification Instructions

You and I will confirm your range location in advance. When you are directed to this page, select the range you are scheduled to attend to view the facility-specific onboarding requirements, check-in procedures, and fees.

Important: Please complete any required onboarding forms before arriving to avoid delays.