A Maryland Firearm Bill of Sale is a legal document required for selling or transferring a firearm between private parties. It serves as proof of the sale and transfer of ownership, protecting both the buyer and seller. In Maryland, both parties must sign the bill of sale, often in the presence of a notary public.
Maryland law enforces a seven-day waiting period for the sale or transfer of regulated firearms (handguns or assault weapons). There is no waiting period for rifles or shotguns.
State Laws for Selling a Gun in Maryland
Minimum Age to Purchase
In Maryland, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase regulated firearms such as handguns and assault weapons. Federal law permits those aged 18 or older to purchase rifles or shotguns.
Permit for Purchase
Maryland requires a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) to purchase regulated firearms, including handguns and assault weapons [1] . Buyers must complete the MSP 77R Application and Affidavit to Purchase a Regulated Firearm, which applies to all sales, including:
- Licensed dealers
- Gun shows
- Private and secondary sales
- Gifts and inheritances
Register a Gun
All regulated firearms in Maryland must be registered with the Maryland State Police [2] . The state keeps a permanent record of all firearm transfers, including private sales and gifts.
Open Carry Permit
Maryland permits open carry of handguns only if the individual has obtained a wear and carry permit. Open carry without a permit is prohibited [3] .
Concealed Carry Permit
Maryland requires permits for both open and concealed firearms carry. Individuals must apply for a concealed carry permit through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal [4] . Maryland is a “may issue” state, meaning law enforcement has discretion when issuing permits.
How to Apply
- Step 1 – Complete Training: Applicants must complete a state-approved handgun safety training course.
- Step 2 – Submit Fingerprints: Provide fingerprints collected by an approved vendor.
- Step 3 – Attach Photo: Include a passport-sized color photo.
- Step 4 – Submit Application: Apply for a permit through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.
- Step 5 – Pay Fees: Pay the required application fee.
- Step 6 – Approval/Denial: The Maryland State Police will issue a decision within 90 days of receiving the application.
Gun Reciprocity
Maryland does not recognize concealed carry permits from other states. However, Maryland permit holders may carry in 29 states [5] .
Restrictions on Firearm Ownership
Maryland law prohibits firearm ownership by individuals who:
- Are under 21 years old (for regulated firearms).
- Have been convicted of felonies, certain misdemeanors, or are subject to protective orders.
- Have a history of violent behavior due to mental disorders.
- Are habitual drug users or alcoholics.
- Are fugitives from justice.
- Are under court-appointed guardianship (for reasons other than physical disability).
Additionally, Maryland’s Red Flag Law allows law enforcement to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others through an Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO) [6] .
Firearm Inheritance Laws
When inheriting regulated firearms, the recipient must register the firearm and complete the necessary application (§ 29.03.01.10). If the recipient is under 21 years old, the firearm must remain with the estate until the individual turns 21. Assault weapons may only be inherited if the decedent owned them before Maryland’s 2013 ban on assault weapons.
