Application Help

Application Help

At Tactical Shepherd, we understand that applying for the Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) and the Maryland Wear and Carry Permit (MD W&C) can feel complex and time-consuming. That’s why we offer personalized, in-person assistance to guide you through every step of the process—ensuring your application is completed correctly, so you can focus on what really matters: your training and safety.

⚠️ Please note: We do not offer online or phone assistance at this time. It is nearly impossible to diagnose or troubleshoot problems without seeing your computer screen firsthand, which makes face-to-face interaction essential for accurately completing the application. Our in-person support ensures we can resolve any issues quickly and guide you through the process efficiently.

Why Do Prices Differ for Students and Non-Students?

We provide discounted application assistance for our students because we already cover much of the application process as part of our training classes. This makes in-person help faster and more efficient for returning students. For non-students, the process typically requires more time and guidance, which is reflected in the pricing.

All appointments must be scheduled in advance and are conducted in person.

To schedule, please contact Kenny at (443) 309-0208.

Application Help Options

Check out the in-person application help options below for both the HQL and MD W&C permits.

 

 

MD Handgun Qualification License (HQL) Application Help

MD Handgun Qualification License (HQL) Application Help

A person may not purchase, rent, or receive a handgun in Maryland after October 1, 2013, unless they possess a valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) issued by the Maryland State Police (MSP) or qualify for exemption status. To apply, you must complete a Firearms Safety Training Course instructed by a Qualified Handgun Instructor, consisting of a minimum of 4 hours of instruction, within 3 years prior to submitting your HQL application.

  • Application Help Cost: 
    • Our Students: $25
    • Non-students: $40

  • Time Needed:  approximately 20-30 minutes
  • What to bring: 
    • Valid State ID (driver's license),
    • Copy of LiveScan Fingerprint receipt,
    • Valid email address (you can access and log into), 
    • HQL Certificate of Training that states your instructors name and MSP instuctor number, 
    • Visa or Mastercard to pay the online MSP application fee (listed below)

  • MSP Application Fee for HQL:  
    • Original/Initial – $50.00 
    • Renewal – $20.00

  • More information: For more information on the application process, visit the MD State Police Handgun Qualification License page. 

Initial MD Wear and Carry (MD W&C) & Renewal Application Help

Initial MD Wear and Carry (MD W&C) & Renewal Application Help

Before you may legally wear and carry a regulated firearm in Maryland, you must possess and maintain an MSP-issued Handgun Wear and Carry Permit. Submission of the application does not authorize you to wear, carry, or transport a handgun until the permit is issued.

  • Initial Application Help Cost: 
    • Our Students: $50
    • Non-Students: $75
  • Renewal Application Help Cost:
    • Our Students: $25
    • Non-Students: $50
  • Time Needed:  approximately 30-40 minutes
  • What to bring: 
    • Valid State ID (driver's license),
    • Copy of LiveScan Fingerprint receipt (fingerprints are not required for renewals),
    • Valid email address (you can access and log into),
    • MSP29-14 Qualification Score Sheet,
    • Veterans only: DD214 that must advise "honorably discharged"
    • Digital Passport Photo (can be taken at the shop)
    • 3 references that are not related to you with the following information:
      • Name
      • Address
      • Phone Number
    • Employer name, address and boss
    • If you have had any previous criminal charges expunged or pardoned, please bring copies of the relevant expungement or pardon documents.
    • Naturalized Citizens only - Must bring appropriate paperwork showing naturalization
    • Visa or Mastercard to pay the online MSP application fee below

  • MSP Application Fee for MD W&C:  
    • Original/Initial – $125.00 
    • Renewal – $75.00
    • Replacement/Modification - $20.00

  • More information: For more information on the application process, visit the MD State Police Handgun Wear and Carry page. 

New Jersey

NJ Application Help

If you hold a concealed carry permit in another state or have received training to meet other state standards, you will still need to meet the specific requirements for NJ. You do not need to apply for a firearms purchaser identification card, or any other permit, to obtain a concealed carry permit. 

Applicants renewing their Concealed Carry Permits do NOT need to be fingerprinted again. Once you have been fingerprinted for a New Jersey firearm application you are assigned an SBI number. After that, you do not need to be fingerprinted again unless there is an unresolved issue with your fingerprints from a past application. You will use your SBI number when you apply. 

  • Initial Application Help Cost: 
    • Our Students: $50
    • Non-Students: $75
  • Time Needed:  approximately 30-40 minutes
  • What to bring:
    • Valid State ID (driver's license),
    • Social security number (you just need to know your number),
    • Valid email address (you can access and log into),
    • PTC Safe Handling and Proficiency Certification (S.P.182),
    • Instructor certification,
    • Consent for Medical Health Records Form (only fill out part one),
    • Veterans only: DD214 that must advise "honorably discharged",
    • Digital Passport Photo (can be taken at the shop),
    • 4 non-family related references. The references cannot be related by blood or by law and you must have known them for at least three years. You will need the following information:
      • First Name Last Name
      • Address
      • Phone Number
      • Valid email address (incorrect email addresses WILL delay your application)
    • Employer name, address and boss,
    • All residence addresses within past 10 years (month/year and city/state),
    • PTC Additional Handguns Intended to be Carried Form (S.P.182a) This is a fillable form for information on any handgun your intend to carry (make, model, caliber, serial number). If you do not own a handgun yet, do not apply.
    • If you have had any previous criminal charges expunged or pardoned, please bring copies of the relevant expungement or pardon documents.
    • Citizenship documentation (Alien Registration Number) if applicable.
    • Visa or Mastercard to pay the online NJSP application fee below

  • NJSP Application Fee for CCW:
    • Original/Initial – $205.00