Q.
1. What is the MD HQL?
Unless otherwise exempt, as of October 1, 2013, a Maryland resident must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) before he/she may purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. You do not need a Handgun Qualification License to own a gun you already have.
Q.
2. Do firearm licenses/Concealed Carry permits have to be recertified?
Yes, firearm permits and concealed carry licenses require recertification. In Maryland, the HQL must be renewed every 10 years, while the concealed carry permit is valid for 2 years initially and 3 years for renewals. D.C. concealed carry permits must be renewed every 2 years. Multi-state permits vary, ranging from 3 to 7 years depending on the state. If your permit expires, you must retake the required class and reapply from scratch.
Q.
3. How long are your courses?
Course lengths vary based on the training type:
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MD & DC Concealed Carry – 16 hours plus range time
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MD HQL (Basic Pistol 1) – 4 hours
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Ladies-Only & Basic Pistol 2 – 4 hours each
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Gun Cleaning – Around 2 hours (varies by firearm condition)
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R.A.D - 4 hours for each session (this course has 4 sessions for completion)
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CPR, Stop the Bleed & Emergency Preparedness courses – Duration depends on the specific class track selected. These courses have different options based on prior experience.
Q.
4. Is there live shooting during your courses?
Yes, live shooting is included in many courses such as HQL (Basic Pistol 1), Basic Pistol 2, Ladies-Only Firearms, Concealed Carry courses, Multi-State CCW courses, 1-on-1 sessions, Shotgun courses, and more. The required amount of ammunition varies by course—check the course description for details.
Q.
5. Can I get a firearm license or permit in another state?
Yes, most states allow non-residents to obtain a firearm permit. However, you must follow the laws and regulations of any state where you carry, even if they honor your out-of-state permit.
Q.
7. Does the class cost the same if I bring my own ammo, firearm and/or protective gear?
Yes, the class will cost the same if you bring your own ammo, firearm & protective gear. I
provide 10 rounds of ammo for Basic Pistol/ HQL courses & 25 rounds per concealed carry
courses. You are more than welcome to bring additional ammo and shoot if time permits.
*Unless the course or personal session specifies “to bring your own firearm”, please leave your
firearm at home!
Q.
8. Is there 1 Concealed license for the DMV area?
No, there isn’t a single concealed carry license for the DMV area. Maryland and D.C. do not have reciprocity with any other state, meaning you must apply directly for their permits. The same applies to Pennsylvania and New Jersey—each state only grants carry rights within its own borders.
Q.
9. Are men allowed to attend classes?
Yes. Unless specified as Women's only then men are permitted and welcome.
Q.
10. Can children attend courses?
Yes. A parent or guardian over 21 will need to sign their waiver for live shooting activities and be
present during their class. I welcome children ages 6 -17.
(The best way to gauge if a child is ready is by asking them and not forcing them. Let them
show you that they are ready to learn. Never make them scared of this activity by forcing them.)
Q.
11. Do I teach Private lessons?
Yes, but slots are very limited. Please go to courses and select 1 on 1 training. If you have other questions, please email me directly at [email protected].
Q.
12. Where am I located?
My training courses are located in Forestville Maryland unless classes are specified for another location. All shooting qualifications are done at the local Range in Upper Marlboro, Maryland unless another location is specified under course tab. Please check out our course list for that info.
*We also love traveling so book us for other ranges and events!
Q.
13. Do I have to bring my own firearm to class?
No. I will supply the appropriate firearm for your class. For personal lessons please see the
policy page for details.
Q.
14. Do I need a permit or experience before attending class?
No. Class is to learn and gain the appropriate knowledge needed to be a safe firearms owners.
Your ultimate goal and comfort level should help to determine which course is right for you.
Q.
15. How long does it take to receive my firearm license?
Processing times vary by state. Once you apply, states have up to 90 days to issue a decision. Most multi-state licenses are processed within 60 days, while the MD HQL typically takes up to 3 weeks. Some states issue digital licenses via email, while others send a physical card—both serve as valid proof of your permit and must be carried while armed.
Q.
16. What is the dress code for live shooting classes?
Close top shoes are best. Please no sandals or crocs. Please wear a comfortable shirt such as
a tee shirt. Please no spaghetti strap or belly shirts. When doing live shooting, the shells can hit
you and they can burn your skin especially if your skin is exposed. Please ensure that if you
wear glasses that you bring them as you’ll need to see as best you can for all activities. Make
sure that long hair is pulled back to ensure you can see.
Q.
17. What do the new law changes mean for people wanting Maryland Wear & Carry License?
Maryland has done away with the “Good and Substantial” Reason for permit. In retrospect, you
no longer have to provide a reason to obtain your MD WCHP. As long as you can pass
Maryland’s background check & have successfully completed your Maryland state approved
Firearm’s course and shooting qualification you then can move on to obtaining fingerprints &
passport photo and submitting your application.
Q.
18. What’s the best course for you?
The course that is right for you depends on a few factors.
1. What area are you a legal resident of?
2. What is your ultimate goal with obtaining training?
Feel free to email me these responses so we can match you up with the correct level
course.
Q.
19. Do I need to get fingerprinted for my firearm license?
Yes, but your class is the first step, as fingerprints are time sensitive. Your fingerprints are only valid for 30 days, and it is your responsibility to obtain them after class. Each firearm license requires its own set of fingerprints, even if you’ve recently been fingerprinted for another purpose. Even individuals with security clearances are not exempt from this requirement.
Q.
20. Do my course completion papers have an expiration date?
Yes. From the date that I sign your certificate and/or course papers they have a time frame in
which you must use them to apply to the proper jurisdiction.
MD HQL- 3 years
MD CCW- 2 years
DC CCW- 1 year
Multi states vary, but the most popular ones give you a year to submit your full application after class.
Q.
21. What do I do if I lose my certificate and paperwork after completing a course?
If paper work or certificate is lost it will incur an additional fee of $45 per document.
*Reminder- These documents are to be kept up with as they include my Instructor credentials
and my wet signature. There could be legal ramifications if someone who is not approved to
use these documents gets a hold of them or forged their name upon these papers. Keep up
with your items please!