Buying a Handgun in New York:
Step-by-Step

In New York, you cannot legally purchase or possess a handgun without first obtaining a pistol permit under Penal Law 400.00^[1]. Possessing a handgun without a valid license is a Class E felony under PL 265.01-b, punishable by up to four years in prison^[2]. This guide covers the complete process from application to pickup.

Step 1: Complete the Firearms Safety Training Course

You must complete a DCJS/NYSP-approved firearms safety course before your license can be issued^[3]. The course consists of:

• 16 hours of in-person classroom instruction
• 2 hours of supervised live-fire range training
• A written examination (80% passing score required)

Find approved instructors through the NYSP or DCJS websites. Keep your certificate of completion -- you will need to submit it with your application. Training costs vary by instructor but typically range from $200 to $500. Some counties will not accept an application without proof of completed training, so finish this step first.

Step 2: Submit Your Pistol Permit Application

Outside NYC: Contact your county licensing officer (typically the county court judge or county clerk's office) to obtain and file the PPB-3 application form^[4]. You will need:

• Completed application form with four character references (non-family members who have known you for a specified period, often one to five years depending on the county)
• Proof of training course completion
• Two passport-style photographs
• Fingerprint submission (done through an authorized vendor; fingerprinting fees vary but are typically $90 to $110)
• Application fee (varies by county -- for example, Monroe County charges $129)

If you have not been a resident of New York for at least three consecutive years, some counties require additional references. Check with your county clerk's office or the court for specific local requirements, as procedures and supplemental documentation can differ significantly from county to county.

Inside NYC: Submit your application online through the NYPD License Division portal^[5]. The application fee is approximately $340. You will select the license type you are applying for, such as a Premises Residence License, Premises Business License, or a Carry Business License^[6]. NYC also requires fingerprinting, passport photos, and a thorough questionnaire about your background, employment history, and reasons for seeking the license.

Step 3: Complete the Background Investigation

The licensing officer will conduct an investigation into your background, including criminal history, mental health records, and character references. Your references may be contacted and interviewed. The licensing officer may also review any history of domestic incidents, protection orders, or substance abuse treatment. This investigation takes time -- processing periods vary from a few months in some upstate counties to over a year in NYC and the surrounding downstate region. State law allows up to 6 months for processing under PL 400.00, though many counties aim to complete it sooner.

Step 4: Receive Your License

Once approved, you will receive your pistol permit. Common license types outside NYC include^[7]:

• Premises license -- Possess a handgun at your home or place of business only
• Carry license -- Concealed carry on your person (requires the full CCIA training)
• Target/hunting license -- Limited to specific activities

Step 5: Select and Purchase Your Handgun

With your license in hand, visit a federally licensed firearms dealer. The dealer will:

1. Verify your valid New York pistol permit
2. Have you complete ATF Form 4473 (federal background check form)
3. Submit a NICS background check request through the New York State Police^[8]
4. If the check returns "proceed," process the sale
5. Provide a gun locking device and a safety warning label with the firearm^[9]

If the NICS check is delayed, the dealer cannot transfer the firearm until approval is received or 30 calendar days have elapsed without a denial. Ammunition purchases also require a background check under the CCIA.

Step 6: Add the Handgun to Your Permit

Every handgun you acquire must be listed on your pistol permit. Follow your county's specific procedure for adding firearms -- some counties require you to bring the handgun to the clerk's office for inspection within a set number of days (often 48 to 72 hours), while others allow you to submit the information by mail or online. Until the handgun is officially added to your permit, carrying or transporting it may be restricted. Keep a copy of your purchase receipt and the make, model, caliber, and serial number readily available.

Step 7: Recertify on Schedule

All pistol and revolver licenses must be recertified with the New York State Police -- every 3 years for concealed carry licenses and every 5 years for premises and other non-carry licenses^[10]. Recertification is done online through the State Police portal and does not require a fee at the state level. In Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties, and in NYC, licenses expire and must be renewed (with a fee). Failure to recertify or renew is grounds for revocation, and your license may be suspended or cancelled.

Key Reminders

• Private party handgun sales must also go through a licensed dealer for a background check under GBL 898 (maximum $10 dealer fee)
• Never possess a handgun not listed on your permit -- each pistol or revolver must be registered to your license
• A premises license does not authorize concealed carry outside your home or business
• Store your handgun in compliance with PL 265.45, especially if minors or prohibited persons live in your household

See also: Buying a Rifle or Shotgun in New York