How to Renew Your Maryland Handgun Permit (Wear & Carry) — A Step-by-Step Guide
Renewing your Maryland Wear & Carry Permit is an essential responsibility — and missing your renewal window could mean starting all over again. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or a seasoned permit holder, this guide will help you understand the process and stay compliant with Maryland State Police requirements.
Quick Summary
Permit Type: Maryland Handgun Wear & Carry Permit
Renewal Window: You can start your renewal up to 90 days before your current permit expires — and you should to avoid gaps in coverage.
Expiration Cycle: Initial permit expires 2 years after date of issue on the last day of your birth month; renewals are valid for 3-year periods.
Training Required: Approved 8-hour renewal training course unless exempt (exemptions include active/retired law enforcement, military, and some instructors).
Application Portal: Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. (licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov)
Step-by-Step Renewal Process
The same general process applies for renewing your permit as the initial online application.
1 - Check the Renewal Timeline
Start your renewal application no more than 90 days before your permit’s expiration date. Maryland State Police recommends filing early because late renewals are rejected and treated as original applications — meaning you’ll need full training and fingerprinting again.
If your renewal application is complete and accepted in the portal at least fourteen (14) days prior to the expiration of your current permit, you will still be allowed to carry on your expired permit.
2 - Complete the Required Training
Unless you are exempt, you must complete the state-approved 8-hour Wear & Carry Renewal Class with live-fire qualification and a passing score sheet (MSP 29-14).
🔗 Register for our Maryland Handgun Permit Renewal Class here: MARYLAND RENEWAL COURSE
This class meets Maryland State Police training requirements and prepares you for the skills and legal knowledge needed for renewal.
3 - Log Into the Licensing Portal
Head to the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal to start your application:
🔗 Maryland State Police Licensing Portal:
https://licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov/MSPBridgeClient/ (licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov)
Your portal will pull in existing information, but be sure to update your contact details and mailing address.
4 - Upload Your Documents
You’ll need to upload:
Your completed renewal training certificate (MSP 29-14)
Updated passport-style photograph (if requested)
Any other supporting items required in the portal
Current payment ($75 renewal fee; exemptions may apply).
5 - Submit and Track Your Application
Once submitted and paid, your renewal can take up to 90 days to process. Be sure to monitor your email and portal status so you can quickly respond to any requests for corrections.
Important Deadlines & Tips
Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute — start 90 days before your expiration date.)
Avoid Lapses: If your permit expires before renewal is properly received, you lose legal carry privileges until issuance.
Keep Contact Info Updated: Renewal reminders come by email — if MSP can’t reach you, you may miss deadlines.
Fingerprints Not Required: You won’t need Livescan fingerprinting for a renewal application — only for original permits.
Why Renewal Training Matters?
Renewal training not only satisfies legal requirements — it refreshes your knowledge of Maryland firearm law, reinforces safety fundamentals, and hones your defensive shooting skills. Staying up-to-date protects you and those around you.
Reserve your spot today at our Renewal Training Class
Helpful Official Links
Maryland State Police Wear & Carry Permit Info: https://mdsp.maryland.gov/Organization/Pages/CriminalInvestigationBureau/LicensingDivision/Firearms/WearandCarryPermit.aspx (Maryland State Police)
State Police Licensing Portal: https://licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov/MSPBridgeClient/ (licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov)
Final Thoughts
Renewing your Maryland handgun permit doesn’t have to be confusing — but starting early and completing the right training is key. Our concealed carry renewal course is designed to make this process smooth, compliant, and confidence-building.
Register now to secure your renewal before your permit expires!
