Maryland Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map
*Page Last Updated: March 19, 2024Maryland is a shall-issue state that offers both resident and non-resident concealed carry permits to those who meet certain qualifications.
In Maryland, a wear and carry permit is issued at the state level by the Maryland State Police. Non-resident permits are also issued to those who meet the same requirements as residents.
In order to qualify for a pistol permit in the state of Maryland, you must be at least 21 years old (or 18 years old if carrying a firearm is required for your employment), successfully complete a firearms training course within two years of your application, and meet all federal requirements. There are also several factors that may disqualify you from being issued a CCW permit.
Open carry is prohibited in Maryland as of October 1, 2023.
To learn more about Maryland concealed carry laws, review Maryland statutes here, visit the Maryland State Police’s website, or contact state authorities.
*Disclaimer: This Maryland concealed carry reciprocity map is not legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, check your state laws or consult an attorney.
Maryland Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance
Issue Type |
Shall issue |
Constitutional Carry |
No |
Open Carry |
No |
Nonresident Permits |
Yes |
Enhanced Permits |
No |
Legal Age |
21 |
Permit Valid |
2-3 years |
Legal to Conceal Weapons Other Than Handguns? |
No |
Reciprocating States |
26 |
States Honored |
0 |
Duty to Inform |
No |
Castle Doctrine |
Yes |
Stand Your Ground |
No |
Issuing Agency |
Maryland Concealed Carry FAQ
What is Reciprocity?
Concealed carry reciprocity refers to a mutual agreement between two states to honor CCW licenses issued by one another. Depending on the state, concealed carry reciprocity can vary greatly. Some states simply accept permits from other states, while others do so with some added caveats. To learn more about this topic, check out “What is Concealed Carry Reciprocity”.
Which States’ Permits Does Maryland Honor?
Maryland does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. However, it does offer non-resident permits to those who qualify.
What States Does Maryland Have Reciprocity With?
Gun laws vary from state to state. When traveling with firearms, it’s your responsibility to know and comply with the laws of the state you’re visiting. Before transporting a gun over state lines, always check the laws in that state to ensure you’re doing so legally.
The following states have a reciprocity agreement with Maryland. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer Maryland concealed carry reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply.
- Alabama
- Alaska*
- Arizona*
- Arkansas
- Florida*
- Georgia*
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa*
- Kansas*
- Kentucky*
- Maine*
- Michigan*
- Mississippi*
- Missouri*
- Montana
- Nebraska*
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio*
- Oklahoma*
- South Carolina*
- South Dakota
- Tennessee*
- Texas*
- Utah*
- Vermont
- Virginia*
- West Virginia*
- Wisconsin*
- Wyoming*
Can You Carry a Gun in Maryland Without a License?
No. You must have a valid Maryland wear and carry permit to legally conceal carry in the state.
What are the Requirements for a Concealed Carry Permit in Maryland?
To obtain a Maryland CCW permit, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
-
Be at least 21 years old (or 18 if required for employment).
-
Successfully complete a firearms training course.
-
Meet all federal requirements.
There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to conceal carry or obtain a Maryland carry permit:
-
A felony or misdemeanor conviction with a sentence of over one year.
-
A conviction for a criminal offense for which you could have been sentenced to over two years of incarceration.
-
A criminal conviction involving the possession, use, or distribution of a controlled substance.
-
Alcohol or drug addiction or abuse.
-
Having exhibited a tendency toward violence or instability that would make it dangerous for you to possess a handgun.
For a full, detailed list of concealed carry eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in the state of Maryland, visit the Maryland State Police’s website.
Can a Non-resident Concealed Carry in Maryland?
Yes. Those who don’t live in the state can conceal carry once they’ve obtained a non-resident CCW permit issued by Maryland.
Can You Open Carry in Maryland?
No. Open carry is illegal in the state of Maryland.
Where CAN’T You Conceal Carry in Maryland?
Even with a concealed carry permit, some locations are off-limits to concealed carry in the state of Maryland, including schools; within 1,000 feet of a public demonstration; in legislative buildings; aboard aircraft; in lodging establishments; on dredge boats; in or around state-owned public buildings and grounds; on Chesapeake Forest lands; in State Parks; at state highway rest areas; in community adult rehabilitation centers; and in childcare centers.
Where Can I Learn More About Maryland Carry Laws?
You can visit the Maryland State Police’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit eligibility or to apply for a Maryland wear and carry permit. For the official laws regarding Maryland concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read state statutes here.
This reciprocity map is provided for informational purposes only. Any activity involving firearms is potentially dangerous and could result in property damage, serious injury, disabling injury or death. All firearms must be handled in a responsible manner and in accordance with applicable law. The author disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy, misuse of, or misinterpretation of information contained in this reciprocity map.