How to Apply for a NYC Handgun License (NYPD)

New York City maintains its own firearms licensing regime, entirely separate from the county-level system that governs the rest of New York State. All handgun licensing within the five boroughs is administered by the NYPD License Division under Rules of the City of New York (RCNY) Title 38.^[1] NYC requires a license not only for carrying a handgun but also for mere possession at home or at a business -- a requirement that goes beyond what most counties outside the city impose.

NYC Handgun License Types

The NYPD issues several types of handgun licenses, each with different permissions and restrictions:^[2]

Premises License - Residence or Business -- authorizes possession at the address listed on the license, plus transport expressly allowed by law
Carry License - New York Resident or Non-Resident -- authorizes concealed carry on the person, subject to sensitive-location and other restrictions
Carry Guard or Gun Custodian License -- limited to qualifying employment, assignments, and active-duty conditions
Special Carry License -- extends a qualifying carry license issued elsewhere in New York to approved carry in New York City
Special Carry Guard or Gun Custodian License -- limited to qualifying on-duty activity and any commute authorized by the rule

Step 1: Create an Account on the NYPD Licensing Portal

Since January 1, 2018, the NYPD License Division has only accepted online applications through its permitting and licensing portal. Visit the portal at licensing.nypdonline.org and click "Register" to create an account.^[3] You will need a valid email address to set up your account and begin the application process.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

The online application requires extensive personal information, including:

Valid state or federal photo identification (driver's license, non-driver ID, or passport)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency
Proof of NYC residency (current utility bills, lease agreement, or mortgage documents)
Employment information and history
Disclosure of any arrests, summonses, or orders of protection
Character references
Proof of completed firearms training (16 hours classroom plus 2 hours live-fire, per CCIA requirements)

All required documents must be uploaded through the portal in the accepted digital formats.^[4]

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for a NYC handgun license is approximately $340. This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether the application is approved or denied. Payment is processed through the online portal.^[1]

Step 4: Fingerprinting

Applicants must be fingerprinted at the NYPD License Division. After the application is submitted, the division contacts the applicant to schedule a date and time to pay applicable fees and be fingerprinted. Applicants should follow those instructions rather than appearing before the division schedules the visit.^[3]

Step 5: Background Investigation and Interview

The NYPD License Division conducts a thorough background investigation that includes criminal history checks (state and federal), mental health record checks, employment verification, and contact with character references. After the background check and document review are complete, the NYPD will schedule an in-person interview. Processing times typically range from four to six months but can extend longer depending on application volume.^[1]

Step 6: License Issuance

If approved, you will be notified to pick up your license at the License Division office. Your license card will list each handgun you are authorized to possess by make, model, caliber, and serial number. Any subsequent purchase requires an amendment to add the new firearm to your license before you may take possession.

Renewal

NYC handgun licenses expire every three years and must be renewed through the NYPD License Division. The renewal fee is approximately $340. Failure to renew before expiration can result in the license being suspended or revoked, and continued possession of a handgun with an expired license may result in criminal charges.^[2]

Non-Resident Applications

In August 2024, the NYPD adopted an emergency rule opening the concealed carry license process to certain non-New York residents who can demonstrate a significant connection to NYC, such as regular employment or business activities within the city.^[5]

Contact Information

The NYPD License Division is located at One Police Plaza, Room 110A, Lower Manhattan. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. For assistance with a handgun-license application, call the Handgun Section at (646) 610-5560. The Rifle/Shotgun Section can be reached at (718) 520-9300.