May 29, 2025
How to get a gun license in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is well known to have some of the most strict set of gun laws in the country. The process can seem daunting to first time applicants but our guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Step 1: Choose the license type
Massachusetts has two types of gun licenses: the License to Carry (LTC) and the Firearms Identification Card (FID). The one you choose and apply for will depend on your specific needs and eligibility. For either license type, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and you must not be considered a "prohibited person" according to the Massachusetts General Laws chapter 140 section 121F. Both licenses are valid for 5-6 years.
Firearms Identifcation Card (FID)
A Firearms Identification Card (FID) enables the holder to purchase, transfer, possess, and carry rifles and shotguns that are not "large-capacity" or semiautomatic firearms. Bolt-action rifles and pump shotguns are a few examples of firearms you are eligible to obtain. To receive the FID:
- You must be a Massachusetts resident
- You must be at least 15 years old to receive the license. Applications can be submitted at 14 years old. Applicants under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian permission when submitting the application.
License to Carry (LTC)
A License to Carry (FID) allows you to purchase, rent, lease, borrow, possess and carry all types of firearms, including large capacity firearms and handguns, that are not considered "assault-style" and otherwise lawful. To receive the LTC:
- You may be a resident or non-resident of Massachusetts.
- You must be at least 21 years old to receive the license.
- You must not be deemed "unsuitable" by the licensing authority.
We generally recommend that if you are over 21 years old, you apply for the LTC even if an FID would meet your current needs, as it provides greater flexibility if your requirements were to change in the future.
Step 2: Complete the required training
Massachusetts law requires completion of a state-approved basic firearms safety course before applying for either license. Residents of certain towns (such as Quincy and Weymouth) must additionally complete a "live fire" exercise in order to qualify for a license. This will soon be required by all MA residents. We recommend contacting your local police department to determine if you are currently required to complete a live fire exercise. We offer the required training with live fire included. Check out our highly rated, Boston based class here.
Step 3: Submit your application
Once you have completed the training, you can submit your application to your local police department's firearms licensing unit. Generally, you will need to submit the following documents:
- A completed application form
- $100 application fee payment
- A copy of your training certificate
- A specified form of identification
- Proof of residency
Some towns may require additional documents, such as letters of reference. Please contact your local police department to determine if any additional documents are required. You can access the application forms below:
Step 4: Schedule a fingerprinting session and "interview"
After you submit your application materials, your local police department will begin processing your application and contact you at a later date to come in and get fingerprinted. Some police departments will also conduct an "interview".
For non-resident applicants, you will need to appear in-person at the Firearms Records Bureau in Chelsea, MA.
Step 5: Wait for your license to be issued
The licensing authority has 40 days to issue or deny your license according to Massachusetts law. Most of our students have reported significantly longer wait times, however. Once your license is approved, you will typically have to either wait for the license to arrive by mail or be contacted by your local police department to pick up the license. You will also be issued a PIN which is used when making firearm purchases.
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The information above does not constitute legal advice and we make no claims regarding the accuracy of any information. We do our best to gather information from reliable third-party sources but laws and regulations are subject to change and we are under no obligation to update the information provided. This material is simply provided for your convenience. Please do your due diligence in regards to legal matters. Please contact us if there are any inaccuracies present.