Last Updated: 01/01/2026

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Note: This guide covers statewide requirements. Although care is taken to examine the laws of New York City – some counties or cities may have additional procedures or regulations that are not listed here — always check with the local sheriff or police department before applying or purchasing. This information is for general guidance and is not legal advice.

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Statewide Disclaimer

New York’s firearm licensing system is one of the most decentralized in the country. While the core framework is established under New York Penal Law §400.00, the statute delegates broad discretion to local licensing officers — typically county clerks, judges, sheriffs, or police commissioners.

This means that requirements, forms, processing times, and even eligibility interpretations vary widely by county. What is accepted in Albany County may be rejected in Erie County. Some counties require additional interviews, reference checks, or training even when not explicitly required by statute.

Because of this decentralized system, applicants — particularly trans people and other marginalized individuals — may encounter inconsistent or discriminatory treatment under subjective standards such as “good moral character” or “suitability.”

If you experience bias or obstruction, consult legal assistance or advocacy organizations before abandoning your application.

We cannot overstate the complicated nature of navigating New York State and especially New York City firearms laws. However, we urge our community to not be deterred by complexity. Approach the process methodically, seek help when needed, and know that obtaining a license is not only achievable but your constitutional right.

Additionally, New York is frequently engaged in active litigation over its firearm laws following NYSRPA v. Bruen (2022). Statutes, licensing standards, and even administrative procedures are subject to ongoing legal challenges. Always verify the most current guidance through official channels before applying.

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Quick Cheat Sheet

Buying a Gun:

• Minimum age: 21 handguns, 18 long guns (important exceptions exist, see below).
• Licensing: Required for handguns statewide, known as a “License to Have and Possess” (also known as a Possess on Premise License). Required for all firearms in New York City.
• Dealer sales background check: Required
• Waiting period: None currently (legislation pending, see below).
• Private sales:  Private sales allowed in name only – all sales must be processed through an FFL with a required background check.

Concealed Carry:

• Permit required? Required. Known as a “License to Have and Carry” but also as a “Concealed Carry License”(CCL). Known as a “Special Carry License” in NYC.
• If permit required: Shall-issue – authorities must issue if applicant meets statutory criteria.
• Training required? Yes – both classroom and live fire training is required in New York State.
• Out-of-state permit recognition: None – New York State does not recognize any out-of-state permits.

Special Notes:

• New York State requires background checks for all ammunition purchases, and maintains a database of those purchases. That database and how it potentially interacts with trans identities is detailed in sections below.
• New York State has some of the toughest and most complicated firearm laws in the entire United States.
• New York State is at the forefront of firearms regulation, and as such is also consistently involved in active litigation defending its laws. Because of this it is important for firearm owners to stay informed and up-to-date on active litigation within the state.
• New York City expands on state laws with further and stricter regulation of firearms for residents and within city limits. Because of major regulatory differences within New York City (see separate section), be sure to check local rules if the firearm will be used, transported or stored in NYC.
• Private transfers and interstate transport rules are complex and have significant restrictions.

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How to Buy a Gun in New York State

Prerequisites

• Age: 21 Handgun. 21 semi-automatic rifles. 18 other long guns. 21 for all firearms in New York City.
• Residency: Federal law requires all handgun purchases to occur in your state of residency. Buyers must be U.S. citizens or legal residents. State residency is required for semi-automatic rifles as defined under the NY SAFE Act (see below) purchases. Non-semi-automatic rifle and other long gun purchases do not require residency, but will remain subject to New York State purchasing laws.
• ID requirements: Valid and current government-issued ID. Further proof of residency may be required.
• Prohibited-person highlights: Felons, domestic violence misdemeanors or restraining orders, unlawful drug users, fugitives, those adjudicated mentally defective or committed, and other federally prohibited categories.

New York State Permit Requirements – Non-CCL (Have and Possess/Possess on Premise License)

• Pistol and semi-automatic rifle permits use the same form.
• Age: Must be 21 or older.
• Residency: Typically required. Exceptions may exist for pistol permits if your place of business is within NY State.
• Training: Officially not required by state statute; county-dependent as delegated by statute.
• Background Check: Required.
• Validity Period: Undefined by state statute. Varies by county (commonly 3–5 years). Some counties explicitly issue permanent until revoked, especially for premises-only licenses.
• References: Applicants must typically provide multiple (commonly four) non-relative character references who attest to their good moral character and suitability to possess a handgun. The exact number and form of the references varies by county. When choosing references, avoid relatives, household members, and ensure each reference has known the applicant for a sufficient period (often 1 year or more). Contact your local issuing authority for exact requirements.
• Notes:
  • In some counties where training requirements are equal between “concealed-carry” licenses and “possess-on-premise” licenses, there have been reports that “possess-on-premise” licenses are virtually-unissued in favor of “concealed-carry” licenses.
  • New York State’s character reference system persists mostly by neglect —not because courts have affirmatively blessed it, but because it hasn’t yet been the center of a well-targeted lawsuit. There’s noted tension between the Bruen framework (which emphasizes objective criteria) and the de facto social-vetting system that many counties use to deny or delay applications. As such, this system may be subject to litigation in the future.

New York State Permit Steps – Non-CCL

1. Complete the PPB‑3 application form for pistols or semi-automatic rifles (pdf found here).
2. Gather a valid and current government-issued photo ID and proof of residency or principal place of business.
3. Collect character references (typically four non-relatives who have known you for at least one year).
4. Obtain passport-style photos and submit fingerprints as required by your local licensing authority.
5. Submit your application, references, and any required fees to your local sheriff or police licensing authority.
6. Undergo state and federal background checks as conducted by the licensing authority (NICS + state databases).
7. Cooperate with any reference verification or discretionary investigation by the local authority.
8. Await review and approval; the licensing authority issues the have-and-possess permit if eligibility and character requirements are met.
9. Possess and store your firearms on approved premises.
10. Notify the licensing authority of any changes in address, business, or legal status.
11. Renew or update your permit according to county-specific validity periods and procedures.

Dealer Purchase Steps

1. Visit a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer.
2. Present current and valid government-issued photo ID, proof of residency or principal place of business, your current, applicable and valid Have-and-Possess Permit and complete the ATF Form 4473.
3. Dealer conducts a background check through the New York State and federal systems (state Pistol Permit database and NICS).
4. If approved, complete the purchase.

Private Sales / Gun Shows

• All private transfers and gun show sales must go through a licensed dealer (FFL).
• Both parties must be present for background check submission and permit verification.
• No direct, unmediated private transfers are legal.

Special Categories / Exceptions

• Long guns (rifles/shotguns): Generally fewer licensing requirements than handguns; however, semi-automatic rifles and shotguns are regulated under the SAFE Act, including restrictions on magazine capacity, assault weapon features, and registration requirements (official SAFE Act website found here).
• Out-of-state residents generally cannot purchase firearms in New York State without establishing residency or a principal place of business. Exceptions exist for long-guns not regulated under the SAFE Act.
• NFA items (suppressors, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, machine guns): Federally regulated under the National Firearms Act (ATF); additionally, New York State prohibits possession of many NFA items unless explicitly allowed (e.g., registered pre-1994 assault weapons or certain grandfathered items). See section “State Specific Considerations” below for further detail. Always verify both ATF compliance and NY state restrictions with official sources before purchase.
• NYC residents must hold a separate NYC-issued license (see below).

Waiting Period & Timing

• Waiting period (days): There is no current waiting period in New York State for firearm purchases.
• Notes / exceptions: SB 362, a bill to establish a 10‑day waiting period in New York State, has passed the State Senate as of 06/09/2025. The bill has not yet passed the Assembly, but it is still active and is not currently considered “dead.”

Common Pitfalls / Practical Tips

• Many aspects of New York State firearm regulation, including character references, fees, processing times, and permit validity, are determined by counties or cities rather than state statute. Applicants should contact their local issuing authority for exact requirements.
• Because firearm licensing and regulation vary by county in New York State, you must pursue licensing and registration in your county of residence and update your records if you move to a new county.
• Be aware of local-licensing officer discretion; even though post-Bruen standards may apply, practice may differ by county.
• All counties require handguns to be listed on your pistol license by make/model/serial number; many counties require a county-issued purchase document or amendment before you may take possession — procedures vary, so confirm with your local pistol licensing office.
• Ensure safe storage requirements are met — New York law mandates strict safe storage warnings and requirements for homes with minors or prohibited persons.
• Confirm dealer requirements for proof of residency.
• Ensure all information on the ATF Form 4473 is accurate to avoid delays.
• Federal law creates various exceptions for law enforcement and military personnel which are not covered by these guides. Consult your official sources.
• Marijuana users are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms. The ATF and many courts treat a medical marijuana card as presumptive evidence of unlawful use. Marijuana use while possessing a firearm is a felony, though recent court rulings are challenging this, and the Supreme Court has taken up a relevant case with a ruling likely in June or July of 2026.

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How to Carry Concealed in New York State

System Type

• Shall-issue in law. After NYSRPA v. Bruen (2022), New York authorities are legally required to issue a concealed carry permit if the applicant meets statutory criteria. However, in practice, local authorities retain extensive procedural discretion — including over fingerprinting, fees, references, and documentation — which can significantly affect approvals. In some cases, a de facto may-issue regime still exists.

Prerequisites

• Age: 21
• Residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. New York residency or business ownership in county or city of application required.
• Training: Minimum 18 hours of instruction (16 classroom + 2 hours live fire) at a state-accredited institution.
• Disqualifying factors: Felony convictions, certain “serious offense” misdemeanor convictions, pending criminal proceedings, adjudicated mental incompetence, and any condition that makes the applicant prohibited under federal law (e.g., involuntary commitment or unlawful controlled substance use). This list is not exhaustive, consult an official county resource.
  • Note on disqualifying factors: Counties cannot formally expand this list, but local licensing officers retain broad procedural discretion — including moral character reviews, reference checks, and documentation requirements — which can function as additional barriers.

Application Steps

1. Concealed Carry Licenses (CCL) are applied for at your local county licensing officer (sheriff, police commissioner, or county judge depending on jurisdiction).
2. Complete the New York State Pistol/Revolver License Application (PPB-3).
3. Any firearms you wish to carry concealed must be listed on the application.
4. Provide fingerprints through an approved vendor (such as IdentoGO) and passport-style photo (may require two copies, may only require a digital copy; check issuing sources).
5. Submit proof of completion of a state-approved firearms training class.
6. Pay required fees.
7. Issuing agency runs background check and review; if approved, license is issued and mailed. License is valid for 3 years.

Training Requirements

• Hours: 16 in total: 14 hours classroom – 2 hours live-fire.
• Proficiencies required: The New York CCL requires both a written test and a live fire range proficiency test.
• Instructor certification: Must be DOJ-certified or recognized by licensing authority.

Processing Time

• Typically 3-9 months; no established statutory limit.

License validity period

• Initial: 3 years.
• Renewal: 3 years.

Restrictions / Prohibited Places

• Schools (K–12), colleges and universities, summer camps, nursery schools, and school grounds (including school-sponsored events).
• Daycare centers and child-care facilities.
• Polling places on Election Day.
• Courts, jails, and correctional facilities.
• All private property is presumed off-limits unless the owner explicitly consents (posted signage or express permission).
• Bars, restaurants, or any establishment where alcohol is served.
• Entertainment venues – theaters, concert halls, and performance spaces.
• All areas of all government buildings, including those restricted under federal law.
• Public transit, including airports.
• Homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters, and similar facilities.
• Places of worship (unless the property owner grants written consent).
• Financial institutions.
• Healthcare facilities of any kind, including mental health and addiction treatment centers.
• Zoos, museums, and amusement parks (including parking areas).
• Libraries, public playgrounds and parks (including state parks).
• Casinos and stadiums (including parking areas).
• Public gatherings or events requiring a permit.
• Do not carry while consuming alcohol; carrying while consuming alcohol is illegal and punishable by law.
• This list is not exhaustive, consult your official resources.

Reciprocity

• Out-of-state permits recognized: No
• State permits recognized elsewhere? Somewhat limited; check reciprocity maps and official resources ahead of any travel.
• Exceptions / caveats: None. New York does not recognize any out of state licenses.

Denial & Appeal Process

• Applicants denied a CCL may appeal in writing to the issuing authority.
• Further recourse is available via judicial review under Article 78 of the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules.
• Denials based on disqualifying factors generally cannot be overturned without expungement or restoration of rights.

Common Pitfalls / Practical Tips

• Delays due to incomplete fingerprint submissions or missing reference letters are common.
• Character references must meet local residency, or relationship duration requirements.
• Even with a permit, private property owners must give express and explicit permission to carry on their premises.
• Training certificates must match current state-approved course format.
• Carrying in prohibited places can result in serious penalties.
• Carrying while intoxicated can result in serious penalties.
• Ensure your CCL is renewed before expiration to avoid legal issues.
• Federal law creates various exceptions for law enforcement and military personnel which are not covered by these guides. Consult your official sources.

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Associated Fees

• Permit Costs (initial): Vary entirely and largely by county – typically ranges from $100-250 depending on the issuing authority. Fees may include non-refundable application fees and separate issuance fees upon approval.
• Concealed Carry Permit Renewal: Vary entirely and largely by county – typically ranges from $10-50. Renewal may require an updated background check and re-certification of training.
• Other Fees / Notes:
• Training fees will vary widely by location, expect a range of $350-500.
• Fingerprinting is again a range and depends on county requirements. Services such as IdentoGO are in the ~$90 area.
• Amendment fees may apply when adding or removing specific firearms from the license.
• Private dealer transfer or background check fees apply for any firearm purchase.

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Trans-Specific Considerations

Name or Gender Marker Changes in Progress

• New York State Pistol License and Firearm Purchases: Your ID must be current and valid at the time of purchase. New York requires a Pistol License to purchase, possess, or own a handgun. If your name and/or gender marker change is finalized but your ID and your license have not yet been updated and / or do not match, you may face delays or denial. If possible, complete your ID and Pistol License update before attempting to purchase.
• CCL Applications: New York State Firearms Licenses are issued at the county level (excluding NYC), and processing times vary widely by county (ranging from several months to over a year in some jurisdictions). This creates particular complications for trans people who undergo a name change during the application process. If you submit an application and your legal name changes during processing, notify your issuing authority immediately. Failure to update your information could result in application denial or a permit issued under an incorrect name, which may create legal complications when carrying.
• Form 4473 Accuracy: The ATF Form 4473 must reflect your current legal name as it appears on your government-issued ID. The form also asks for sex information; at present, using the gender marker on your current government-issued ID is the standard practice. Using identifying information that does not match your ID could constitute providing false information and may result in denial or legal consequences.
• Practical Implications: It cannot be overstated that in New York State it is important if at all possible to complete all legal name and gender marker changes and obtain updated government ID before beginning the pistol license application process. This avoids potential complications with background checks, the recertification process, and application processing. Given the county-level processing times (which can exceed 6-12 months in some counties), planning ahead is critical.

Updating an Existing Firearms License After Name or Gender Marker Change

• Where to update: Contact your original county issuing authority (typically the County Clerk’s office) for local guidance on updating your existing firearm license documentation. Each county has different procedures – some use amendment forms (commonly called PPB-5 forms for Pistol and Rifle/Shotgun Licenses found here), while others may have proprietary processes.
• Required documentation: While processes vary by county, be prepared to provide proof of your legal name change, such as a court order, updated birth certificate, or other official documentation.
• Update process: Varies significantly by County. The general process includes:
  1. Complete the county’s pistol license amendment form (often the PPB-5 found here).
  2. Gather required documentation (see above).
  3. Submit by mail, email, or in person (check county requirements).
  4. Pay applicable fees.
  5. Receive updated license (processing times vary from 7-14 business days to several weeks).
• Processing fee: Varies by County. Total fees generally range from $3-$13 depending on the county.
• Processing time: Varies by County from 7-14 business days to several weeks.
• Important notes on carrying:
  • Your local issuing authority may not require a gender marker update, depending on whether or not gender is noted on the issued license itself. In NYC for example, a gender marker is not displayed on Special Carry License, however this is not true throughout the state.
  • Your CCW permit and other firearms licenses should reflect your current legal name before you carry concealed. A mismatch between your ID and permit could create complications during a law enforcement encounter.

Notes on New York’s Ammo Background Check system

• New York State requires background checks for all ammunition purchases, and maintains a database of those purchases.
• When you update your pistol license after a name change, your county licensing authority forwards the amendment to the state database. The state database system includes fields for previous names / aliases, which allows ammunition background checks to match your records even after a name change.
• This process should not require further personal intervention past updating your licenses.
• Practical tip: If you experience delays or denials when purchasing ammunition after a name change, it may be because the alias has not yet been added to the state system. Contact either the New York State Police for clarification (found here), or your local issuing authority.

Notes:

• New York State allows for “X” gender markers on its state-issued licenses. How this interacts with Federal systems is an area that Arm the Dolls is currently looking into, but public information is either hard to find or not available. This guide will be updated as soon as we have concrete information on the subject.
• There are ongoing regulatory developments regarding sex designation requirements on Form 4473. We are monitoring this situation and will update this guide as more information becomes available.

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New York State-Specific Considerations

• Local ordinance preemption: No – New York state does not have local ordinance preemption. Counties and cities retain unparalleled discretion to impose additional restrictions and application procedures.
• Assault weapons / magazine limits: Yes – “assault weapon” features restricted; magazine capacity limited to 10 rounds at the state level (a banned feature can be found on this state website).
• ERPO / Red flag laws: Yes – allows courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves (NY State Red Flag Gun Protection Law website can be found here).
• Registration requirements: Yes – all handguns must be registered to the permit holder by serial number.
• Safe storage laws: Yes – firearms must be locked or secured when minors or unauthorized persons could gain access (NY State Safe Gun Storage website can be found here).
• Transportation rules: Must be unloaded and secured in a locked container. Ammunition may be transported separately or in the same container if the firearm is unloaded. Permit holders may carry loaded, concealed handguns listed on their license subject to state and county restrictions. Check with your local official resources to ensure compliance with all laws. (NY State website guide to SAFE Act impacts on transportation can be found here. Official penal code related to the transportation of firearms can be found here.)
• Other unique issues:
  • Ammunition background check system:
    • New York law requires sellers of ammunition to maintain detailed electronic records for all ammunition transactions (including date, purchaser’s name, age, address, occupation, and ammunition details) as of September 1, 2022. 
    • All ammunition purchases in New York require a background check through the state’s database system (fee: $2.50 per transaction). Currently, ammunition background checks in New York are conducted exclusively through the New York State Police’s Statewide License and Record Database, not the federal NICS system (NY statute technically allows the superintendent to certify NICS use for ammunition checks, but the FBI itself does not currently certify NICS for ammunition purchases).
    • Importantly, the state database maintains records of previous names and aliases, theoretically allowing the system to match your records even after a legal name change.
    • There is no standardized state form for ammunition purchases. Dealers use their own internal forms or point-of-sale systems to collect the required information (name, address, date of birth, occupation, and ammunition details).
  • Microstamping: New York law requires semi‑automatic pistols to be capable of microstamping and mandates the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) to establish standards and approve models. While the statute is in place, enforcement has not yet begun – no models have been certificated and no dealers are required to sell only microstamping‑enabled pistols. The implementation schedule continues to evolve and is subject to future regulatory action.

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NY State Official Links & Documents

State Statutes / Codes

• Section 400.00 – Licensing and other provisions relating to firearms

State Police / Firearms Division

• New York State Police – Firearm website

Permit Applications / Forms

• New York State PBB-3 – Pistol / CCL / Semi-Auto Rifle form
• New York State PBB-5 – Pistol / Revolver / Semi-Automatic Rifle Amendment Form

Attorney General Opinions / Court Decisions

• New York Attorney General Opinions
• New York Supreme Court Decisions

Other Official Resources

• New York State Police – Firearms FAQ
• New York State Police – CCL Minimum Training Requirements
• New York Instant Criminal Background Check Website – SAFE Act / Mental Health Reporting FAQ
• Madison County list of permit disqualifications

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New York City-Specific Considerations

New York City expands significantly on state laws with additional requirements. All statewide requirements apply plus the following NYC-specific provisions. Always verify current requirements at the NYPD licensing website as this section is subject to consistent updates due to both legislation and litigation.

Important differences from rest of NY State

Magazine Capacity: NYC limits rifles and shotguns to 5 rounds (admin code found here). Handguns are only subject to the 10 round capacity which exists at the state level.

Firearms Licensing: Unlike the rest of New York State, rifles and shotguns also require a permit in NYC.

License Types: NYC offers several distinct license categories of which the Special Carry License (concealed carry) is the most broad and applies to the most people. The NYPD has a page describing the different licenses (found here) but it should be noted that there are discrepancies the NYPD’s website and the city code (found here), and that the primary Carry License itself is not listed.

Application System: NYC uses an online-only application system (found here).

Public Records: As with the rest of the state, NYC license holder’s applications are subject to Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests. The information provided to NYC FOIL requests is limited to names and zip codes, however seeking an exemption is still the best privacy practice. In NYC, the Firearms License Request for Public Records Exemption form is available directly on their website (found here), however you must be logged in to your license account in order to submit a request.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can non-residents buy a gun in this state?
Limited. Non-residents generally cannot purchase firearms in New York without establishing residency or a principal place of business in-state. Exceptions exist for non-semi-automatic long guns, but purchases remain subject to NY State laws.

Are private sales required to do background checks?
Yes. All private transfers and gun show sales must go through a licensed dealer (FFL) with a required background check. No direct private transfers are legal.

How long is the waiting period?
None currently. However, SB 362 (a 10-day waiting period bill) has passed the State Senate as of June 2025 and remains active in the Assembly.

What is the minimum age to buy a handgun?
21 years for handguns and semi-automatic rifles. 18 years for other long guns. 21 years for all firearms in New York City.

Do I need a permit to carry concealed?
Yes. A Concealed Carry License (CCL), also called a “License to Have and Carry,” is required. In NYC it’s called a “Special Carry License.” The state is shall-issue post-Bruen, though local procedural discretion remains extensive.

Where am I prohibited from carrying even with a permit?
Schools, daycares, polling places, courts, government buildings, bars/restaurants serving alcohol, entertainment venues, public transit, airports, places of worship (without written consent), healthcare facilities, libraries, parks, playgrounds, casinos, stadiums, and all private property unless the owner gives express permission. This list is not exhaustive – consult official resources.

Are ghost guns or unserialized guns legal?
No. New York banned ghost guns in 2022. It is illegal to possess, manufacture, sell, or ship any unserialized firearm or unfinished frame/receiver. Only licensed gunsmiths may possess them, and they must serialize and register them with the state.

Are out-of-state permits recognized here?
No. New York does not recognize any out-of-state permits.

How long does the permit process typically take?
Typically 3-9 months for CCL (6-9 months in NYC), with no statutory time limit. Processing times vary widely by county.

What happens if my concealed carry permit is denied?
You may appeal in writing to the issuing authority. Further recourse is available via judicial review under Article 78 of the NY Civil Practice Law and Rules. Denials based on disqualifying factors generally cannot be overturned without expungement or restoration of rights.