📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes in Handgun Carry Permits

Since the original article was written, there have been several important changes related to handgun carry permits and firearm regulations in the U.S. These changes affect state laws, safety measures, and the overall landscape of gun ownership. You can read more about the previous information further down the page.

⚖️ New Regulations Impacting Public Safety

In April 2026, the Trump administration's Department of Justice, along with the ATF, announced over 30 new rules. Some of these rules could potentially increase public safety risks. Concerns include the possibility of mass casualty events due to relaxed regulations.

🔒 Maryland's Handgun Sales Restrictions

In May 2026, Maryland became the second state to ban the sale of handguns easily converted into fully automatic "DIY machine guns." California was the first state to implement such a measure. This law aims to enhance safety by controlling the availability of dangerous firearms.

🛠️ Colorado's Legislative Changes

In March 2026, Colorado's House passed HB 1144. This bill targets the manufacturing of firearms using 3D printers and CNC milling machines. The goal is to close loopholes that allow illegal gun parts to enter the market.

🏢 Massachusetts Dealer Requirements

Starting in April 2026, Massachusetts requires firearm dealers to complete a training program. This program covers security standards, employee background checks, and licensing requirements. This change aims to ensure better oversight of firearm sales.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • ⚖️ New rules may raise public safety concerns.
  • 🔒 Maryland restricts certain handgun sales.
  • 🛠️ Colorado addresses 3D-printed gun issues.
  • 🏢 Massachusetts requires dealer training programs.
  • 📜 Legislative changes continue to evolve.

💡 Tips for Navigating Handgun Carry Permits

It is important to review the details of your specific situation with your attorney.

📋 Understand State Regulations

Each state has its own rules regarding handgun carry permits. Familiarize yourself with your state's regulations, as they can vary widely. Keeping up with local laws can prevent legal issues.

📄 Monitor Legislative Changes

Stay informed about new laws and regulations. Recent changes in states like Maryland and Colorado could directly impact your rights and responsibilities as a gun owner. Regularly check official state resources for updates.

🔍 Research the Application Process

The process for obtaining a firearm license can differ by state. Make sure to understand the necessary steps and any recent changes in the application process. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare.

🕒 Be Aware of Deadlines

While specific application deadlines might not be available, it's essential to be aware of any time frames associated with your application. Submitting your application on time ensures you won't miss out on opportunities.

📞 Utilize Free Resources

Organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action offer resources to help you navigate gun laws. These groups can provide valuable information about legislative changes and state regulations.

🏆 Handgun Carry Permit Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section covers services related to firearm purchases and regulations. These services help users navigate the complex world of gun ownership and carry permits. The order of these services is based on Trustpilot data as of October 2026.

Remember that scores can change over time, and user experiences may vary.

🥇 1. GunBroker.com

GunBroker.com has been rated 4.5 stars. It is known for being an online marketplace for firearms, making secure buying and selling easy. However, reviewers note that there can be delays in customer service response times, which may affect your experience.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

Organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety, Moms Demand Action, Brady, and the National Rifle Association (NRA) provide free resources. They offer guidance on understanding gun laws and navigating regulations. These options can be useful for anyone looking to stay informed about legal changes.

🔎 Key Comparison Points for Handgun Services

  • 📈 Trustpilot scores and reviews
  • 🔒 Security of transactions
  • 🕒 Customer service response times
  • 📚 Availability of resources and information
  • 🌍 Coverage of state-specific regulations

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the new rules affecting handgun ownership?

New regulations announced in April 2026 may increase risks to public safety. These rules were introduced by the Department of Justice and the ATF.

🔍 How does Maryland's handgun sale prohibition work?

As of May 2026, Maryland prohibits the sale of handguns that can be easily converted into fully automatic weapons. This aims to enhance public safety.

🏛️ What does Colorado's HB 1144 address?

HB 1144, passed in March 2026, targets the manufacturing of firearms using 3D printers and CNC milling machines. It seeks to close loopholes in existing laws.

📅 Are there deadlines for firearm license applications?

Specific deadlines for firearm license applications are not detailed for Maryland, Colorado, or Massachusetts as of May 2026. It's important to check local regulations for any updates.

🔒 What training is required for Massachusetts firearm dealers?

As of April 2026, Massachusetts requires firearm dealers to complete a training program covering security standards, background checks, and licensing requirements.

📞 Where can I find support for understanding gun laws?

Organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action offer resources and assistance for navigating gun laws and regulations.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Involving Handgun Regulations

Several recent court rulings have impacted handgun regulations and carry permits. These rulings reflect the ongoing debates surrounding gun laws in the U.S.

For more recent rulings, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Handguns often fall under a different set of laws than other guns, such as rifles or shotguns, because of the inherent danger in the smaller weapons. While they are less powerful than their larger counterparts, handguns are instead easier to conceal, and therefore present more of a danger than guns which can be easily recognized and avoided or dealt with. As a result, many states have specific handgun laws, and even may require handgun purchasers to obtain a handgun permit in order to keep those handguns.

These handgun permits oft times are related to the simple ownership and purchase of the gun, but other times are more oriented on the concealed carry of handguns which makes them so dangerous. Having a handgun permit for one may not be the same as having a permit for the other.

As an example of this, New Jersey requires citizens to first obtain a lifetime Firearm Purchaser permit, before obtaining any weapon. But then it requires citizens to get a special handgun permit, above and beyond the Firearms Purchaser permit, if they intend to get a handgun. Above and beyond this, New Jersey's handgun laws are such that it is essentially nigh impossible for any given individual to obtain a concealed carry permit.

What You Need to Know About Handgun Carry Permits

Such a handgun permit would be granted to those for whom carrying a gun is a necessary function of earning a living, working a job, but for those who do not require a handgun to perform their job, New Jersey's handgun laws make it practically impossible, or at the very least, highly difficult, to obtain such a permit.

In Alabama, however, handgun laws are very different. In Alabama, while there is no handgun permit required to simply purchase a handgun (or any other gun, for that matter), a handgun permit is required to carry the weapon concealed. This concealed carry handgun permit is much more easily attainable than is New Jersey's, however, as one simply need submit an application to the county sheriff and have it be approved.

As yet another example of a different variation on state handgun laws, Michigan's handgun laws allow for handgun owners to obtain a handgun permit for a concealed carry, but only if the individual satisfies a number of other requirements, including that he or she is 21, that he or she has not been found guilty or accused of certain felonies or misdemeanors within a certain time period, and that he or she has fulfilled a firearms training course officially approved by the state.

Even with a concealed carry handgun permit, however, individuals are restricted from carrying a concealed weapon on certain locations, such as schools, and Michigan handgun laws even require those who carry concealed handguns to immediately inform police officers of this fact if they are stopped.

Regardless of what state you live in, it is fairly safe to assume that carrying a concealed handgun will, under your state's handgun laws, require some form of permit. Even in those states which are deemed "shall issue," such as Alabama, permits are still required, though they are easy enough to obtain. It is entirely possible that such handgun permits will not be offered in your state, however, so be prepared for this eventuality.