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Maryland Firearms Safety Training
Public Safety Article § 3-208(b)
MPCTC - Firearms Training 6852 4th Street
Sykesville MD, 21784-7433
410-552-6300, Toll Free: 866-856-2961, Fax: 410-552-4615
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Maryland's firearms safety training requirement?
A. General instruction regarding safety in the use and storage of firearms, required for purchase or acquisition of handguns and other regulated firearms after January 1, 2002.
Q. Do I have to take firearms safety training every time I buy a regulated firearm?
A. No. The course is only mandated for the first acquisition of a firearm after January 1, 2002.
Q. Do I have to take a course offered by the Police Training Commission?
A. No. You may attend any program meeting legal requirements.
Q. Does this law cover all guns?
A. The training provision applies to handguns and other regulated firearms such as assault weapons.
Q. Do I have to take a test?
A. The Police Training Commission training course may not, by law, require any skills or knowledge testing.
Q. I already own a gun and don't plan to purchase another after January 1, 2002. Do I still have to take the class?
A. No. The law does not apply to firearms acquired prior to January 1, 2002. You may, however voluntarily attend the firearms safety training program.
Q. I have already completed the NRA Handgun Safety Course. Do I still have to take the class if I obtain a regulated firearm after January 1, 2002?
A. Not if the NRA safety course was taken after January 1, 2004.
Q. Where and when are the Police Training Commission classes given?
A. Throughout Maryland on a weekly basis. Check the schedule for the next available class near you.
Q. Who teaches the classes?
A. Certified law enforcement officers and firearms instructors.
Q. How much does the class cost?
A. There is no cost for the course offered by the Police Training Commission. Other organizations may charge a fee.
Q. Do I need to pre-register to attend the class?
A. You need not pre-register for Police Training Commission programs. Check with other offering organizations prior to attendance.
Q. Will the class cover everything I need to know to be able to handle a gun safely?
A. The course cannot cover all the areas of gun safety but it will cover the information you will need to satisfy the Responsible Gun Safety Act.
You may want to consider further education in gun safety and use at your local range or firearms organization.
Q. May I take the class after I purchase a firearm?
A. No. You must take the class prior to the acquisition of a handgun or other regulated firearm.
Q. How do I prove that I took the course?
A. You will be issued a certification that you should retain to show you firearms seller.
Q. Do I need to provide positive identification when I take the course?
A. You should provide the same identification required for the purchase of a firearm. A photo ID such as a Maryland Drivers License is satisfactory, but not required.