How to Apply for a Gun License/Permit in New York City

New York City’s gun licensing process is complicated and takes time. Most applications move through several stages over many months, with reviews at each step.

This guide covers what you’ll need to submit, when you’ll need to appear in person, and where people commonly run into delays. If you’re starting an application or are already partway through, you’ll have a clearer sense of what comes next and when to see legal counsel.

Determine the Correct License/Permit Type

The first step in the process is to determine which type of license or permit you need. New York City offers several types of firearm licenses, each with its own requirements and restrictions.

• Premises License
• Carry Business License
• Limited Carry Business License
• Special Carry License
• Carry Guard License

Create an Online Account with the NYPD License Division

Once you’ve determined the correct type of license, the next step is to create an online account with the NYPD License Division.

Visit the NYPD License Division website, click on “Create Account,” and follow the prompts. You’ll need to provide basic information.

Complete the Initial Application

Once your account is set up, you can start filling out your application. It is detailed and requires a lot of information. Don’t rush; mistakes or omissions can cause delays or even lead to your application being denied.

Required Personal Background Details: Provide details about your background, criminal history, mental health history, or drug and alcohol use.

Employment and Residency Information: Provide information about your current and past employment, as well as your residency details.

Reference Requirements: New York City requires you to provide references as part of your gun license application. These references should be people who can vouch for your character and suitability to possess a firearm.

Prior License History: If you’ve previously held a gun license—whether in New York or another state – you’ll need to provide details. This includes the type of license, when it was issued, and whether it’s still valid.

Upload Required Documentation

Proof of Identity: Provide proof of your identity and that you live in New York City.

Training Certificates: For concealed carry or special carry applications, you must upload proof that you completed New York’s required 16-hour classroom plus 2-hour live-fire safety course with an approved instructor. For a premises license, formal training isn’t mandated in the same way, but if you’ve completed any firearms safety training, it can still be helpful to include that documentation.

Pay the Required Fees: Once you’ve paid the fees, your application will move forward to the next stage.

Fingerprinting & Background Checks

The next step in the process is fingerprinting and background checks. You’ll be scheduled to appear at the NYPD License Division (or another location they designate) to be fingerprinted.

The background check involves a review of your criminal history, if any, as well as checks against various databases to ensure there are no outstanding warrants or restraining orders against you. It also includes checks of your mental health history and substance use.

Interview

Once your fingerprints have been taken and your background check is underway, you’ll be scheduled for an in-person interview with an investigating officer from the NYPD License Division. The officer will ask you questions about your application and your suitability to possess a firearm.

During the interview, you should be prepared to discuss any issues that might have come up during your background check.

If there are any red flags or concerns arising from the interview or background check, the officer has the discretion to deny your application. Therefore, it’s crucial to be fully prepared for this interview. A NYC gun license attorney can help prepare you for your interview with the investigating officer, helping you present yourself in the best possible light.

Approval Notification and Next Steps

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a notification from the NYPD License Division with instructions on how to obtain your license and any additional steps you need to take.

If your application is denied, the notification will include the reasons for the denial and information on how to appeal the decision. If you believe the denial was unjustified, it may be wise to consult an attorney on Article 78 appeals.