What is the Process for Obtaining a Permit to Carry a Firearm in Pennsylvania?

You need a license to carry a firearm in several different circumstances in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania State Police explains that “a License to Carry Firearms allows you to carry a firearm concealed on your body or in a vehicle.” Without a proper license, you cannot lawfully carry a concealed firearm in public. You could be arrested and charged with a third-degree felony for doing so. Our Harrisburg firearms crime defense attorney provides an overview of the legal process for obtaining a permit to carry a firearm in Pennsylvania.

Know the Eligibility Requirements (Pennsylvania Law)

You must satisfy the statutory eligibility standards before you can obtain a License to Carry Firearms. Pennsylvania regulates concealed carry under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6109. You must be at least twenty-one years old. You must be a Pennsylvania resident unless you qualify for a nonresident license through your home state. You cannot fall into any prohibited-person category under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105. That list includes felony convictions, certain misdemeanor domestic violence offenses, active protection-from-abuse orders, adjudications of incompetence, and other disqualifying conditions.

You Must File the Application with the Correct Licensing Authority

You apply to the sheriff of the county where you reside. Philadelphia residents apply through the Chief of Police. You must submit the standard Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms form. Among other things, the form requires identifying information, residence information, and two character references. You must present government-issued identification and pay the statutory fee.

Note: Pennsylvania does not require a training course for issuance, but you must certify that you are not prohibited from firearm possession under state or federal law.

There Will Be a Background Investigation and a Character Review

Once you file the application, the sheriff conducts the mandatory investigation. The review includes a Pennsylvania Instant Check System query, a National Instant Criminal Background Check System query, and a review of mental health databases. Beyond that, the local sheriff also verifies the information provided by your references. Pennsylvania uses a “good cause” and “good character” framework. A sheriff may deny a license if the applicant’s conduct shows a lack of responsibility or an increased risk to public safety.

Unlawful Carrying of a Firearm is a Felony in Pennsylvania

You need to be sure to have a proper license to carry a concealed firearm. Carrying a concealed firearm in Pennsylvania without a valid License to Carry Firearms can result in a felony. A conviction can lead to jail time and other criminal penalties.

Call Our Harrisburg Firearm Violations Defense Lawyer Today

At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg criminal defense attorney has the skills and experience to take on the full range of firearms violations charges. If you were charged with any type of firearm offense, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a strictly private, no obligation case review. From our Harrisburg office, we defend weapons charges throughout the region in Pennsylvania.