Maryland Gun Laws 2026 — Complete Guide
Maryland firearms laws govern how residents and visitors may purchase, possess, carry, and use firearms within the state. This guide covers the most important aspects of Maryland gun laws as of 2026, including purchase requirements, carry permits, waiting periods, and self-defense statutes. Always consult official state statutes and legal counsel for binding legal guidance.
Purchasing Firearms in Maryland
Permit to purchase: Handgun Qualification License (HQL) required for handguns. Maryland requires a permit, license, or ID card before you can purchase certain firearms. This additional step involves a background check and may add processing time to your purchase. Buyers must be at least 21 years old for handguns and 21 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns). All purchases through licensed FFL dealers require a federal NICS background check.
Background checks: State and NICS background check. When you purchase a firearm on WeaponDepot, it ships to your chosen FFL dealer in Maryland who handles all required paperwork and background check processing.
Waiting period: 7-day waiting period.
Carrying Firearms in Maryland
Open carry: Prohibited without permit.
Concealed carry: Wear and carry permit required (shall-issue post-Bruen). Maryland operates under a permit-based carry system. Residents must apply for and obtain a concealed carry permit before legally carrying a concealed firearm in Maryland. Check local requirements for application procedures, fees, and training requirements.
Restrictions & Prohibited Items
Assault weapons ban, 10-round magazine limit, HQL for handguns. Federal restrictions on NFA items (short-barreled rifles, suppressors, machine guns) still apply and require ATF approval through the appropriate tax stamp process.
Self-Defense Laws
Maryland follows the duty-to-retreat doctrine, which generally requires individuals to retreat if safely possible before using deadly force in public. The state also provides Castle Doctrine protections, protecting individuals who use force against intruders in their home, vehicle, or place of business.
Red Flag Laws & Preemption
Maryland has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order). This law allows law enforcement or family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. Additionally, Maryland has state preemption, meaning local municipalities cannot enact firearms laws stricter than state law.
Buying Online & FFL Transfers in Maryland
Federal and state rules can affect an online firearm purchase and its transfer. Confirm the receiving dealer's requirements, availability, and fees before placing an order. Use our FFL dealer directory for Maryland to find local businesses and contact them directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Maryland?
- Handgun Qualification License (HQL) required for handguns. Maryland requires a permit or license to purchase certain firearms. All FFL purchases require a federal background check.
- Is concealed carry legal in Maryland?
- Wear and carry permit required (shall-issue post-Bruen). A permit is required for concealed carry in Maryland.
- Does Maryland have a waiting period?
- 7-day waiting period.
- Does Maryland have a red flag law?
- Maryland has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order).
- Where can I find FFL dealers in Maryland?
- Visit our FFL dealer directory for Maryland to find local businesses and contact them about transfer services and fees.
Source, Editorial Status & Scope
Dataset maintained by: WeaponDepot Editorial. Last recorded editorial update: 2026-05-01. No named individual reviewer or professional credentials are recorded, so this page does not claim professional review. This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Laws, agency guidance, local ordinances, and court decisions can change.
Change history: No itemized change note is recorded for this revision.
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