Constitutional Carry in Maryland

Status: Not Permitted

Maryland does not have constitutional carry. A permit is required to carry a concealed handgun in the state.

Permit Requirement

Maryland requires a Wear and Carry Permit (also referred to as a Handgun Permit) issued by the Maryland State Police in order to legally carry a concealed handgun. This is governed by the Maryland Annotated Code, Criminal Law, Title 4, Section 203 (CR § 4-203), which addresses the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun.

Key Evidence from Official Sources

• No permitless carry: The Maryland State Police Licensing Division actively administers a Wear and Carry Permit program, requiring applications to be submitted and processed electronically through the MDSP Licensing Portal.
• Training required: 16 hours of training is required for the initial issuance of a Wear and Carry Permit; 8 hours is required for renewal.
• No reciprocity: According to the Maryland State Police FAQ, "Maryland does not recognize permits/CCWs from any other state."
• Strict transport rules: Without a Wear and Carry Permit, handguns must be transported unloaded, in an enclosed case or enclosed holster, with ammunition separate, and only between specific locations (residence, repair shop, shooting sporting event, or place of business substantially owned and operated by the person), as referenced under CR § 4-203.

Relevant Legal Framework

• Maryland Annotated Code, Criminal Law, Title 4, Section 203 (CR § 4-203): Governs the wearing, carrying, or transporting of a handgun
• Firearms Safety Act of 2013 (SB 281): Established additional requirements including the Handgun Qualification License (HQL) for purchases and enhanced training requirements for carry permits
• Public Safety Article, Title 5: Governs regulated firearms, licensing, and related provisions

Summary

Maryland remains a permit-required state for concealed carry. There is no provision for constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) under current Maryland law. All individuals wishing to carry a concealed handgun must obtain a Wear and Carry Permit through the Maryland State Police Licensing Division, which involves background checks, training requirements, and an application process.