Can you legally own a gun in Maryland, United States?
Yes, you can legally own a gun in Maryland, United States. However, there are specific requirements and regulations that need to be met and followed for an individual to own a firearm in the state. Maryland has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, with a focus on reducing gun violence and keeping firearms out of the hands of those who may pose a risk to public safety.
How do you obtain a license for gun ownership in Maryland?
To obtain a license for gun ownership in Maryland, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Complete a certified firearms safety training course
- Not have been convicted of a disqualifying crime
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be a habitual drunkard or drug addict
- Not suffer from a mental disorder that would make you a danger to yourself or others
- Not be under a protective order
- Not have been convicted of a crime of violence, including assault, battery, or burglary
- Not have been convicted of a felony
- Not be a respondent in a domestic violence case
Once these requirements are met, you can apply for a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) through the Maryland State Police Licensing Division.
What are the open carry and concealed carry laws in Maryland?
In Maryland, open carry of a firearm is not permitted. Concealed carry is allowed, but only with a valid Maryland Wear and Carry Permit. To obtain this permit, applicants must meet the same requirements as for the HQL, in addition to demonstrating a good and substantial reason for needing to carry a concealed firearm, such as personal protection or employment purposes.
Some of the laws and penalties related to gun laws in Maryland include:
- Illegal possession of a firearm can result in imprisonment and/or fines
- Use of a firearm in a crime of violence or felony can result in a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years
- Illegal sale or transfer of a firearm can result in imprisonment and/or fines
- Straw purchases (buying a firearm for someone who is prohibited from owning one) can result in imprisonment and/or fines
Law enforcement agencies, such as the Maryland State Police and local police departments, are responsible for enforcing gun laws in the state.
What is the list of current gun regulations in Maryland, United States?
Some of the current gun regulations in Maryland include:
- Handgun Qualification License (HQL) requirement for handgun purchases
- 7-day waiting period for handgun and assault weapon purchases
- Background checks for all firearm purchases
- Restrictions on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines
- Concealed carry permits issued on a may issue basis
- Firearm registration for handguns and assault weapons
- Restrictions on firearm possession for those convicted of certain crimes or with mental health issues
Which guns are prohibited in Maryland, United States?
Some guns that are prohibited in Maryland include:
- Assault weapons, as defined by Maryland law
- Machine guns and fully automatic firearms
- Sawed-off shotguns
- High-capacity magazines (over 10 rounds)
What are the rules regarding air rifles, crossbows, and airsoft guns in Maryland, United States?
In Maryland, air rifles, crossbows, and airsoft guns are generally not considered firearms and are not subject to the same regulations as traditional firearms. However, some local jurisdictions may have specific regulations regarding their use and possession.
What is the gun ownership per capita and other gun statistics in Maryland?
According to the RAND Corporation, Maryland has a gun ownership rate of 20.7% among adults, which is lower than the national average of 29.1%. In 2019, there were 558 gun-related deaths in Maryland, with 372 being homicides and 173 being suicides.
Are there any ammunition and high capacity magazine restrictions in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland has restrictions on high-capacity magazines. Magazines with a capacity of more than 10 rounds are prohibited. There are no specific restrictions on ammunition purchases, although a background check is required for all firearm purchases, which includes the purchase of ammunition.
Is there a red flag law in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland has a red flag law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO). This law allows family members, household members, or law enforcement officers to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from an individual who poses a significant danger to themselves or others.
Some government resources related to gun laws in Maryland include: