How do I get a concealed carry permit in Massachusetts?

Q: How do I get a concealed carry permit in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts's License to Carry (LTC) is governed by M.G.L. c. 140, § 131 as substantially amended by Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024 (firearms reform act). 1. Eligibility (§ 131(d)) - At least 21 years old . - Massachusetts resident, or out-of-state applicant via a non-resident LTC. - Not a "prohibited person": no felony, domestic violence, restraining order, or specified misdemeanor convictions. - No commitment for substance abuse or mental health in past 5 years. - "Suitable person" determination by the licensing authority (still discretionary in part). 2. Training Requirement - State-certified Basic Firearms Safety Course (BFSC) — minimum 4 hours including live-fire under Ch. 135 (2024). - Updated curriculum required as of October 1, 2024. 3. Application - Apply at your local police department in person. - Submit application, training certificate, fingerprints (where required), references, and complete in-person interview with the licensing officer. 4. Fees - $100 statewide (set by statute). - Course fees typically $100-$250. 5. Processing - 40 days statutory target (§ 131(e)); often longer in practice. 6. Sensitive Locations (Ch. 135, 2024 — new § 131P) - Schools, courthouses, polling places, government buildings, hospitals, places of worship (with carve-outs), bars, sporting events, and posted private property. 7. Reciprocity - Massachusetts does not recognize any other state's permit. Non-residents must obtain a Massachusetts non-resident LTC. 8. Renewal - Valid 6 years ; renewal application required with updated background check and may require refresher. This is legal information, not legal advice.

Question

Accepted Answer

Massachusetts's License to Carry (LTC) is governed by M.G.L. c. 140, § 131 as substantially amended by Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024 (firearms reform act).

1. Eligibility (§ 131(d))

At least 21 years old.

Massachusetts resident, or out-of-state applicant via a non-resident LTC.

Not a "prohibited person": no felony, domestic violence, restraining order, or specified misdemeanor convictions.

No commitment for substance abuse or mental health in past 5 years.

"Suitable person" determination by the licensing authority (still discretionary in part).

2. Training Requirement

State-certified Basic Firearms Safety Course (BFSC) — minimum 4 hours including live-fire under Ch. 135 (2024).

Updated curriculum required as of October 1, 2024.

3. Application

Apply at your local police department in person.

Submit application, training certificate, fingerprints (where required), references, and complete in-person interview with the licensing officer.

4. Fees

$100 statewide (set by statute).

Course fees typically $100-$250.

5. Processing

40 days statutory target (§ 131(e)); often longer in practice.

6. Sensitive Locations (Ch. 135, 2024 — new § 131P)

Schools, courthouses, polling places, government buildings, hospitals, places of worship (with carve-outs), bars, sporting events, and posted private property.

7. Reciprocity

Massachusetts does not recognize any other state's permit. Non-residents must obtain a Massachusetts non-resident LTC.

8. Renewal

Valid 6 years; renewal application required with updated background check and may require refresher.

This is legal information, not legal advice.