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 which includes both classroom instruction and range training from a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) certified firearms instructor. You will also need to demonstrate proficiency in marksmanship, which typically involves a 50-shot shooting qualification with 70% accuracy.
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
Two proofs of residency
Original firearms training certificate
Valid photo ID
Download the DC Concealed Carry License Application and Instructions
FIREARM REGISTRATION:
You must register every handgun that you intend to carry or keep in DC by using the Application for Firearms Registration Certificate Form (PD-219). You will not be able to turn in your CPL application unless you have a handgun to register or already have one registered with DC MPD.
Firearms Eligible to be Registered
SUBMIT THE APPLICATION:
You must appear in person at the MPD Firearms Registration Unit to submit your Concealed Pistol License application. Schedule a “Firearms” 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.
NOTE:
DC MPD is in the process of rolling out an online application portal for firearm registrations and new Concealed Carry License (CCL) applications, you’ll need one short in-person visit for fingerprinting (government-issued ID required), proof of residency, and your training certificate.
However, CCL applications and renewals my still be submitted in person.
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
Phone: (202) 727-4275
Email: firearms.adminbox@dc.gov
Reference:
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.