New York State and City Firearms Licenses
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How to obtain a NYS firearms permit
A firearms license is a state license however issued under the authority of county licensing officers. The most common types of firearm licenses are:
- Carry concealed
- Possess on Premises
- Possess/Carry During Employment
How much does it cost?
The cost varies by county.
How long will the process take?
You should expect it to take a minimum of four months from the time of application until a license is either granted or denied.
Eligibility
To be eligible to have a firearms license you:
- Must be a New York State resident
- Must be 21 years old
- Have no prior felony or serious offense convictions
- Be of good moral character
- Have a legally recognized reason for wanting to possess or carry a firearm
- Be ready to open the business for which the license is being applied
Apply
You must apply in the county in which you live or are principally employed.
- In Upstate New York apply to the County Court through the office of the court clerk, county clerk or sheriff.
- In New York City, Nassau County and most of Suffolk County apply to the police commissioner.
- In eastern towns of Suffolk County apply to the Sheriff.
To complete the State of New York Pistol/Revolver License Application (PPB3), you will need to provide:
Personal information such as your:
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number
- Address
- Physical Description
- Criminal History
- Mental Health History
- Character References
- You will also need to provide a form of identification
Privacy
The NYSAFE Act protects the privacy of pistol license holder:
- If you do not want your information released publicly, you can notify your County Clerk.
- You must complete a NYS Firearms License Request for Public Records Exemption form
To complete the Request for Public Records Exemption form:
- In the first section:
- Enter your name, date of birth, address and the county in which you are applying.
- If you hold a firearms license, provide your license number.
- In the second section:
- Check the box that best describes the reason your information should not be publicly disclosed.
- Sign and date the form.
- Submit the form by taking it to your local licensing office.
How To Obtain A NYC Firearms License
Possession of handguns, rifles, or shotguns in New York City requires a license or a permit issued by the NYPD License Division. The City issues licenses to own a handgun and permits for rifles and shotguns. You can apply online or in person. You must be 21 years of age. Processing time varies depending on location.
Online: Learn more about firearm permits and licenses. Renew or apply for a firearm license or permit.
In Person: All in-person visits must be requested in advance by email and approved by License Division.
One Police Plaza – NYPD License Division
1 Police Plaza Path
(Between Madison Street and Park Row)
Email: DG_LIC‐HandgunIntake@NYPD.org
NYC Police Department
Rifle / Shotgun Section
120—55 Queens Boulevard
(Between 80th Road and 82nd Avenue)
Email: DG_LIC‐RS‐Intake@NYPD.ORG
By Phone:Call 311 for assistance.
Contact experienced attorneys Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC at 716.542.5444 if you have any questions about NY Gun Laws.
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NY Firearms License FAQs
The process involves an application to your local licensing officer, typically the County Court, County Clerk, Sheriff, or the NYPD for NYC residents. It requires a background check, fingerprinting, and interviews, with requirements varying by county.
New York has historically been a “may-issue” state requiring applicants to demonstrate a legally recognized reason to carry a concealed weapon. Given the strict and evolving requirements, legal counsel is recommended when applying.
The New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Act is a comprehensive gun control law that includes provisions for expanded background checks, a ban on certain assault weapons, and privacy protections for pistol license holders.
You have a right to appeal the decision, often through an administrative hearing or an Article 78 proceeding in New York court. An experienced firearms lawyer can represent you and challenge the denial on legal grounds.
A gun-related charge can result in felony convictions, prison time, and loss of gun rights. You should contact an attorney immediately to build a defense strategy and protect your rights.
Yes. NYC requires a separate, city-specific license for handguns and a permit for rifles and shotguns, issued through the NYPD License Division, with a more rigorous application process than other parts of the state.
No. New York requires a license to possess a firearm. If you inherit one, you must obtain a license, sell it, or legally transfer it to a licensed individual to avoid a felony charge.
Given the complexity of New York’s gun laws and the stakes involved in applications and appeals, retaining a knowledgeable firearms lawyer is highly recommended to ensure your application is complete and your rights are protected.
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