How to Apply for a District of Columbia
Concealed Pistol License
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Be at least 21 years old.
Meet background check and training requirements.
No disqualifying criminal history or mental health conditions.
COMPLETE A FIREARMS TRAINING COURSE:
Unless exempt, complete the 16-hour firearms training course, conducted by a MPDC CCW-Certified Firearms Instructor.
If you have previous firearms training through the U.S. military or law enforcement, you may be exempt from the 16-hour training requirement. An exemption may be requested by submitting such documentation along with the Concealed Pistol License Application.
There is no exemption from the District of Columbia Laws on Firearms and Self-Defense training requirement.
PREPARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Concealed Carry Pistol License Application form
Proof of residency
Original firearms training certificate
Valid photo ID
PD-219 Firearms Registration Application
Download the DC Concealed Carry License Application and Instructions
You must register every handgun that you intend to carry in DC by using the Application for Firearms Registration Certificate Form (PD-219). You will not be able to turn in your application unless you have a handgun to register or already have one registered with DC MPD.
SUBMIT THE APPLICATION:
You must appear in person at the MPD Firearms Registration Unit to submit your Concealed Pistol License application. Schedule a “Firearms - Concealed Pistol License Application” appointment online at: https://go.nemoqappointment.com/Booking/Booking/Index/dc876re9gh
DC MPD will take your fingerprints, photo and payment during your appointment.
Application fee: $75
Fingerprint fee: $35
TIMING:
DC MPD has ninety (90) days to submit a decision on your application. You will be notified via email whether your application has been approved or denied.
DC MPD is not currently issuing permits by mail, you must download or print the emailed copy of your permit and firearm registration card.
Questions, contact the Firearms Registration Branch.
DC Metropolitan Police Department
Firearm Registration Branch
One Judiciary Square
441 4th Street, NW, Room 550 South
Washington, DC
(202) 727-4275
firearms.adminbox@dc.gov
In 2017, the District's requirement that applicants show a “good reason” to fear injury to his or her person or property to receive a concealed carry permit was struck down by a federal appeals court in Wrenn v. District of Columbia.