Training in safe and legal handgun use for sport or self-defense.

» Where can I get a permit to carry a pistol?
Minnesota residents: Sheriff in the county where the applicant resides. Non-residents: any Minnesota Sheriff.

» What are the requirements for getting a permit to carry?
Must be at least 21 years of age. Must complete an application form. Must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm. Must not be listed in the criminal gang investigation system. Must provide certificate of completed authorized firearms training. Training by a certified instructor and completed within one year prior to applying for a permit to carry.

» How long do I have to wait to get my permit?
Sheriff must provide issue permit or written denial within 30 days of the application date.

» How long is my permit valid?
5 years from the date of issuance.

» How do I renew my permit?
Permits may be renewed at the issuing county sheriff’s office no sooner than 90 days prior to expiration of the current permit.

» Where can I get an application?
Applications will be available at the county sheriff’s office and on the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s website at www.bca.state.mn.us/permittocarry.

» Where is my Minnesota permit valid?
Minnesota permits are valid throughout the state of Minnesota. Individuals interested in obtaining information on whether their Minnesota permit to carry is valid in another state will have to contact that state directly to determine what the carry laws are.

» What would prevent me from getting a permit to carry?
Any applicant that does not meet the criteria as listed in number 2 above is not eligible for a permit to carry a pistol. The sheriff can also deny the application if there is a substantial likelihood that the applicant is a danger to self or others if issued a permit to carry.

» What is the cost for a permit to carry?
Determined by the Sheriff, not to exceed $100.00.

» Where am I prohibited from carrying my pistol?
School property. Public colleges and universities may have policy restricting the carrying of weapons on their premises by employees and students while on campus. Private establishments - if posted that establishment bans guns on premises or personally informed of the posting and ordered to leave. Places of employment, public or private, if employer restricts the carry or possession of firearms by its employees.

» Do I need to have my permit with me when carrying my pistol?
Yes, the permit holder must have the permit card and a driver’s license, state identification card, or other government-issued photo identification in immediate possession at all times when carrying a pistol and must display the permit card and identification document upon lawful demand by a peace officer.

» What happens with my old permit?
Permits issued prior to May 28, 2003, remain in effect and are valid under the terms of issuance until the date of expiration applicable at the time of issuance. However, a person holding a permit that was issued prior to the May 28, 2003 may apply for a permit under the new law.

» Can I get an emergency permit to carry?
Emergency permits may be issued by the sheriff if he/she determines that the person is in an emergency situation that may constitute an immediate risk to the safety of the person or someone residing in the person's household.

» Can private establishments prohibit carrying pistols on their premises?
Yes, private establishments must post a notice banning guns on their premises as well as personally notify patrons that guns are not allowed.

» Can I prohibit firearms in my private residence?
The owner of the residence may prohibit firearms in their home..

» Can my landlord restrict me from carrying or possessing firearms on residence premises?
Landlords may not restrict the lawful carry or possession of firearms by tenants or their guests.

» Can my employer prohibit carrying pistols in the work place?
Yes, an employer may establish policies that restrict the carry or possession of firearms by its employees while employee is working.

» Can I apply for a permit to carry if I am not a U.S. citizen but have permanent resident status in the United States?
Yes, when you apply you will need to provide the sheriff with your I-551 or I-151 card, whichever one you have been issued.

HTML Navigation for javascript-disabled browsers:

Home Classes Merchandise

About Us FAQ Links MN Carry Statute Editorial Reciprocity Contact Us