New York handgun licenses identify licensed handguns by manufacturer, model, caliber, and serial number.[1] Outside New York City, Penal Law Section 400.00(9) permits the licensing officer to amend a license to add or cancel handguns. New York City uses the NYPD License Division process. Follow the applicable authority's instructions before taking possession after an acquisition and after a disposition.
Adding a Firearm to Your Permit
When you purchase or otherwise acquire a new handgun, you must add it to your pistol permit before you can lawfully take possession. The process generally works as follows:
- Purchase from a dealer (FFL): The dealer obtains the required federal transaction form and submits a background-check request to the New York State Police. The State Police serves as New York's point of contact and contacts NICS as part of the check.[7] Follow the dealer and licensing authority's instructions for the receipt and firearm details needed for the amendment.
- File an amendment: Submit the required transaction documentation and amendment form to your licensing authority. Procedures may permit mail, online, or in-person filing.
- Wait for approval: The licensing officer reviews and approves the amendment, adding the firearm to your permit. In many counties, you cannot take possession of the handgun until the amendment is approved and the firearm is listed on your updated permit.
The exact sequence varies by licensing authority. Some authorities issue a purchase authorization before the dealer releases the handgun, while others use a different amendment sequence. Check with your licensing authority before beginning the transaction.[3]
Private Transfers
Except for a sale, exchange, or disposal between spouses, domestic partners, children, or stepchildren, private handgun transactions must use a licensed firearms dealer under General Business Law 898. The dealer submits the background-check request to the New York State Police and maintains the required transaction record.[4] The parties must also follow their licensing authorities' amendment requirements.
Removing a Firearm from Your Permit
When you sell, trade, gift, or otherwise dispose of a handgun, follow your licensing authority's process to remove the firearm from your license. Required information commonly includes:
- The make, model, caliber, and serial number of the firearm being removed
- The reason for removal (sold, traded, transferred, destroyed, or surrendered)
- If sold or transferred, documentation of the transaction (the buyer's name and, in some counties, their permit number)
If a firearm listed on your license is lost or stolen, report it to local law enforcement and notify your licensing authority promptly.
Fees and Processing
Penal Law Section 400.00 sets a $3 amendment fee outside New York City and the counties of Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester, and a $5 fee in Suffolk County. New York City, Nassau, and Westchester use their applicable local fee schedules. For example, Westchester County lists a $25 amendment fee for specified changes.[1][5] Processing time depends on the licensing authority and requested change.
Keeping Your Permit Current
Your permit must accurately reflect every handgun you possess at all times. Possessing a handgun that is not listed on your permit -- or failing to remove a firearm you no longer possess -- can create legal complications, including potential criminal charges. When you recertify your permit through the NYSP portal, you will be asked to confirm or update the list of firearms on your license. Ensure your records are current before recertifying.[6]