The Designated Collector Status Allows Maryland Residents to:

1 – Purchase or transfer multiple regulated firearms at one time or within a 30-day window.

2 – Allow a bona fide collector to transport part or all of their collection from place to place for public or private exhibitions (provided the firearms are unloaded and securely cased).

Note:  This status does not exempt you from Maryland's standard seven (7)-day waiting period for background checks. A Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is still required when buying a regulated handgun unless applicant qualifies for exemption.

Purchasers must wait 30 days for transfer of next regulated firearm unless they have a Designated Collector Status.

PRE-APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Before you apply, you must meet a few basic conditions:

• Have an active account in the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal: https://licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov/MSPBridgeClient/#/home

• Have at least one regulated firearm registered with the Maryland State Police.

Designated Collector Status is for Maryland residents only.

HOW TO APPLY:

You may access the Designated Collector Application Portal at: https://licensingportal.mdsp.maryland.gov/MSPBridgeClient/#/home

Instructions for Renewing Your Maryland Handgun Permit

1. Log Into Your Account

   • Visit the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal and log into your account.

2. Start the Designated Collector Application

   • From your ‘Welcome’ dashboard, select ‘Start Designated Collector Application’

3. Complete the Questionnaire

   • Complete the online application including identification information and a description of the purpose of your application.  Example:  To acquiring certain types of regulated firearms for the enhancement of personal collection.

4. Sign and submit your online application.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

There is no application fee.

Once submitted, the Licensing Division typically processes your application.  The processing time is usually between one to two weeks. 

You will receive a approval letter via email and your name will be listed as a designated collector, no physical card will be issued.  

When purchasing your regulated firearms, advise the FFL that you are a designated collector and the one-purchase volume restriction will not apply to your transaction.

SOURCES:

https://mdsp.maryland.gov/firearms-permits-professional-licenses/regulated-firearms/designated-firearms-collector

Maryland State Police - Firearms Registration Unit
Licensing Division
Email: msp.firearmsregistration@maryland.gov