📅 2026 Update: Changes in Maryland Gun Laws Since 2023

Since the original article was written, there have been updates on gun laws in various states, including Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio. These changes impact how individuals buy and own firearms, which is also relevant to Maryland residents. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing foundational information.

🔄 Michigan's New Firearm Purchase Requirements

Michigan has made significant changes since early 2024. Anyone purchasing a firearm must now have either a firearms purchase license or a concealed handgun license. Additionally, for long guns, a background check from a licensed dealer must be conducted within five days before the purchase.

📜 Background Check Processes in Other States

Other states have also modified their background check processes. Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio now allow permitless carry, which means individuals can carry concealed handguns without a permit. However, Michigan still requires a thorough background check through the Department of State Police and the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).

💰 Varying Costs for Concealed Carry Licenses

The fees for concealed carry licenses differ by county in Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio. This means that the cost of obtaining a license may vary significantly depending on where you live, affecting your overall expenses related to firearm ownership.

📋 Eligibility Criteria Updates

Eligibility rules for purchasing firearms remain consistent across several states. In Michigan and Kentucky, applicants must be at least 21 years old, while Alabama allows individuals as young as 18 to apply. All states require applicants to be U.S. citizens or legal residents and not prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • Michigan now requires a purchase license or background check for firearm purchases.
  • Several states allow permitless carry, changing their firearm laws.
  • Fees for licenses vary by county across different states.
  • Eligibility rules remain similar, with age requirements differing slightly.
  • Background checks are essential before purchasing firearms in every state.

💡 Tips for Navigating Maryland Gun Laws

Review the details of your own situation with your attorney.

🏷️ Know Your Local Laws

Understanding Maryland's specific gun laws is crucial. Local regulations may differ from state laws, so check with local authorities or legal resources to stay informed.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

When applying for a firearm purchase in Maryland, be aware of any deadlines for background checks. Completing the process on time is essential to avoid delays in obtaining your firearm.

💵 Budget for Licensing Fees

Be prepared for the costs associated with obtaining a firearm license. Fees can vary by county, so budget accordingly to ensure you can afford the necessary permits.

🔍 Research Background Check Requirements

Check what the background check process involves in Maryland. This knowledge can help you prepare for the application and ensure you meet all requirements to successfully purchase a firearm.

📞 Use Government Resources

Take advantage of free resources available from state police and local law enforcement agencies. They can provide information and assistance regarding firearm purchases and background checks.

🏆 Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section covers services relevant to firearm transactions and ownership. These services are ranked according to Trustpilot data as of October 2026. Keep in mind that ratings can change, and unhappy customers often leave more reviews.

🥇 1. GunBroker.com

GunBroker.com holds a Trustpilot score of 4.6. This online marketplace is known for facilitating transactions between buyers and sellers of firearms and accessories. However, some reviewers mention that customer service response times can be delayed due to high sales volume.

🆓 Government and Nonprofit Help

Free assistance is available from state police and law enforcement agencies in various states, including Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio. These organizations provide information about firearm purchases and help navigate background check processes.

🔎 Things to Compare

  • 🔍 User reviews and ratings
  • 💰 Costs associated with licenses
  • 📝 Background check requirements
  • 🛠️ Types of firearms and accessories available
  • 📞 Customer service responsiveness

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the age requirements for purchasing firearms in Maryland?

In Maryland, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase handguns. For long guns, you can be 18 years old.

🏛️ How do background checks work in Maryland?

Background checks in Maryland are conducted by the Department of State Police, which reviews databases and contacts the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).

📜 Are there permitless carry laws in Maryland?

No, Maryland does not have permitless carry laws. You must obtain a concealed carry permit to carry a handgun.

🔒 What disqualifies someone from owning a firearm in Maryland?

Disqualifications may include felony convictions, mental health issues, or being a domestic violence offender.

💵 How much do firearm licenses cost in Maryland?

The costs for firearm licenses can vary by county in Maryland. Check with your local sheriff's office for specific fees.

📞 Where can I find assistance with gun laws in Maryland?

The Maryland State Police provides information and assistance regarding gun laws, purchases, and background checks.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Gun Laws

Recent court rulings have impacted gun ownership and rights, reflecting ongoing debates over the Second Amendment. These rulings can influence gun laws and regulations in Maryland.

Explore more rulings on the news page for updates on recent court decisions and their implications.

End of October 2026 Update






MARYLAND GUN LAWS & REGULATIONS UPDATE 2023

A DECADE OF CHANGE: AN UPDATED OVERVIEW OF MARYLAND’S GUN LAWS AND REGULATIONS TIMELINE (2013-2023)



Over the past ten years, Maryland's gun laws have undergone significant changes, reflecting the state's commitment to responsible firearm ownership and public safety. From background checks to assault weapon bans, these developments aim to strike a balance between Second Amendment rights and community security. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in Maryland's gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023, presented in bullet points:

Maryland Gun Laws

2013 - Firearm Purchase Background Checks:


   - Maryland enacts laws requiring background checks for all firearm purchases, including private sales and transactions at gun shows.


2014 - Enhanced Reporting of Mental Health Records:


   - Maryland improves the reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by prohibited individuals.


2015 - Assault Weapon Ban Strengthening:


   - Legislation is introduced to enhance Maryland's existing ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, focusing on reducing potential risks.


2016 - "Red Flag" Law Enactment:


   - Maryland becomes one of the first states to implement "red flag" laws, allowing law enforcement and family members to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals deemed a risk.


2017 - Enhanced Penalties for Gun Crimes:


   - Legislation is introduced to enforce stricter penalties for individuals convicted of gun-related crimes, aiming to deter illegal firearm use.


2018 - Enhanced Firearm Storage Requirements:


   - Maryland introduces regulations mandating safe firearm storage to prevent unauthorized access, particularly in households with minors.


2019 - Enhanced Background Checks for Concealed Carry:


   - The state tightens the background check process for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on mental health history and criminal records.


2020 - Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms:


   - Maryland introduces regulations requiring reporting lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement, aiming to prevent potential diversion to illegal markets.


2021 - Enhanced Assault Weapon and Magazine Bans:


   - Legislation is introduced to further strengthen Maryland's assault weapon and high-capacity magazine bans, addressing evolving firearm technologies.


2022 - Ammunition Purchase Restrictions:


    - Maryland explores regulations on ammunition sales, prompting discussions on responsible ammunition ownership and potential background checks.


2022 - "Red Flag" Law Review:


    - Maryland reviews its "red flag" laws to assess their effectiveness and potential improvements in implementation.


2023 - Firearm Training Requirements for Concealed Carry:


    - Proposed legislation aims to enhance firearm training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, emphasizing responsible gun ownership and firearm handling skills.


2023 - Enhanced Mental Health Reporting:


    - Maryland continues to improve the reporting of mental health records to NICS to ensure the prevention of firearm access by prohibited individuals.


2023 - School Safety Legislation:


    - Maryland explores legislation to enhance school safety by permitting certain school staff to carry concealed firearms on school grounds, subject to proper training.


Maryland's gun laws have evolved significantly over the past decade, reflecting the state's dedication to responsible firearm ownership and community safety. From background check enhancements to discussions on "red flag" laws and the strengthening of assault weapon bans, these changes underscore Maryland's proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to adapt its laws, it remains crucial for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions that balance individual rights with the security of the community.


According to research on firearm restrictions, Maryland gun laws rank among the most stringent in the nation. That being said, many state officials feel more needs to be accomplished to further prevent dangerous individuals from maintaining access to guns. Two distinct classes of guns and regulations exist in Maryland-hunting firearms and handguns. They will be broken down as follows:


Rifles and Shotguns:                                          


     Permits to purchase and carry shotguns and rifles are not required


     A license and registration at the time of purchase is not required


     Background checks are not required at time of purchase


Handguns and Assault Weapons:


     There is no permit required to purchase a handgun


     Registration of handguns is required under Maryland gun laws


     No license is required at time of purchase


     A permit is required to carry a handgun under Maryland gun laws


     A background check is required to purchase a handgun


The difference with these groups exists to dissuade the sale of handguns. Purchase of handguns or assault weapons are subject to disapproval from the state and law enforcement during a seven day waiting period.


During this time, the authorities will review the prospective buyer's application which includes questions pertaining to the expected use of the weapon, criminal history, and a description of the gun being purchased. The administrators will review the application, and if denied, the sale of that particular gun will be dissolved. An appeal is offered where further documentation must be sent to the secretary of police.


A permit is also mandatory to carry a handgun, but the requirements to obtain such a right are minimal. Fingerprints, safety training testing, and law enforcement are not involved in the permit process. The logic for a discrepancy between the two permits is simple-the process to purchase a handgun in Maryland is difficult; instituting a rigorous application process to conceal would be redundant.


Maryland law on gun is rigid for distributors of firearms. In addition to extensive record keeping which is later filed by the state, a license is required to sell all firearms under Maryland gun laws.


Limits on bulk purchases are also present-a buyer can only purchase one handgun per month with no exceptions. Maryland gun laws are also very strict in regards to guns in public places, juvenile purchases (must be 21) and child safety locks present on all firearms. These restrictions are among the most strict in the country, and have helped to control the illegal firearms market.


Although mostly strict, there are casual aspects to Maryland's gun laws. Inspections by police are not permissible on gun dealers, nor are security precautions required by the state for retail gun stores. Although ballistic fingerprinting is present under Maryland gun law, there is no mandatory micro-stamping on semi-automatic handguns.


Even with such strict restrictions on guns, Maryland routinely ranks among the most dangerous states in terms of violent crime statistics. One in every 156 citizens is the victim of a violent crime, while one in 11,427 is murdered.


These bleak numbers can be mainly attributed to Baltimore's struggles and failure to revitalize. Numbers may be misleading given the presence of dangerous urban landscapes. Although unpleasant, one can only imagine how the statistics would look if Maryland gun laws were mitigated.