If you're a gun owner in North Carolina and you want to legally carry your firearm in public places, obtaining a concealed handgun permit (also known as a concealed carry permit) is a necessary step. In this blog post, we'll go over everything you need to know about the North Carolina concealed handgun permit application process.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a concealed handgun permit, you must ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. You must be at least 21 years old, a US citizen or permanent resident, and a resident of North Carolina for at least 30 days. Additionally, you cannot have any disqualifying criminal convictions or mental health issues.
Step 2: Complete the Required Training Course
To apply for a concealed handgun permit in North Carolina, you must complete a training course that covers firearm safety, handling, and North Carolina gun laws. The course can be taken in person or online, but it must be taught by a certified instructor. The training course should be a minimum of eight hours long.
Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
To complete your concealed handgun permit application, you will need to gather several documents, including:
A completed application form, which can be downloaded from the North Carolina Department of Justice website or your local sheriff's website
A fingerprint card, which can be obtained from your local sheriff's office or from a private fingerprinting service.
A non-refundable fee of $90, payable by cash, check, or money order.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you've completed the required training course and gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit your application to your local sheriff's office. You will need to provide a copy of your training certificate, your completed application form, fingerprint card, and fee payment.
Step 5: Wait for Your Application to be Processed
After you've submitted your application, the sheriff's office will conduct a background check and review your application. The process can take up to 90 days, although it may be completed sooner. Once your application has been approved, you will receive your concealed handgun permit in the mail.
In conclusion, obtaining a concealed handgun permit in North Carolina requires completing a training course, gathering the required documents, and submitting an application to your local sheriff's office. The process can take up to 90 days, so it's important to plan ahead if you need your permit by a certain date. Remember to always follow North Carolina's gun laws and to be aware of any restrictions on where you can legally carry your firearm.