Buyer guide
Buying a firearm in Maryland: what to expect
Buying a gun in Maryland involves a few steps that are specific to the state. If it is your first time, some of them will be new. This guide explains what to expect, in plain language.
Everything below is drawn from official Maryland State Police sources. It is general information, not legal advice, and your local dealer walks you through the details in person.
The points below cover the rules buyers ask about most.
Handguns need an HQL
Maryland requires a Handgun Qualification License to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun, with limited exemptions. New to handguns? Ask us where to start.
The 7-day wait
Handguns and other regulated firearms carry a state waiting period: 7 days from when your application reaches the State Police. Most rifles and shotguns have no state wait.
The Handgun Roster
A handgun made after January 1, 1985 can be sold in Maryland only if it is on the official state Handgun Roster. Buying online? We can help you confirm the model is listed before you order.
Your 77R application
The state application for a regulated firearm (the 77R) is filed electronically through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal. We walk you through it in person.
Magazines over 10 rounds
Maryland bars the sale, purchase, receipt, or transfer of detachable magazines over 10 rounds. Ordering a pistol online? Make sure it ships with compliant magazines, or ask us first.
One regulated firearm per 30 days
Maryland allows one regulated firearm purchase every 30 days. Collectors and some multiple purchases can be approved by the State Police in advance. Ask us if that is you.
How a purchase works
When you buy from a licensed dealer, the paperwork and the required checks happen with you at the counter. You complete the federal form there, any state application goes to the State Police for review, and you take the gun home once everything clears and any waiting period has passed.
Buying online works the same way. The seller ships to a local dealer near you, who receives it and completes the transfer with you.
The best first step is to call or visit a dealer nearby. They handle this every day and can tell you what applies to your situation.
For the official rules and current forms, see the Maryland State Police.
Informational, not legal advice, and may not be a complete statement of the law. Firearms laws change and vary by locality — confirm current requirements with the ATF and your state authorities before any transfer. We link to official forms; we do not host or supply them.
Verified against Maryland State Police sources, 2026-07-13
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