Maryland has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. Whether you’re a gun owner, thinking about purchasing a firearm, or facing gun-related criminal charges, understanding the state’s complex firearm regulations is essential. In this post, we break down the most important aspects of gun laws in Maryland, including who can own guns, how they can be carried, and what penalties apply for violations.
Who Can Legally Own a Gun in Maryland?
To legally purchase or possess a firearm in Maryland, individuals must meet specific eligibility requirements. You cannot legally own or possess a gun in Maryland if you:
- Are under 21 years old (for handguns)
- Have been convicted of a felony or certain violent crimes
- Are subject to a protective order or domestic violence restraining order
- Have been diagnosed with certain mental illnesses or involuntarily committed
- Are a fugitive from justice or an illegal drug user
All handgun purchasers must complete the Handgun Qualification License (HQL) process, which includes:
- A background check
- Fingerprinting
- A firearms safety training course
For long guns like rifles and shotguns, the process is less strict, but some weapons — such as assault-style rifles — are banned under Maryland law.
Can You Open Carry or Conceal Carry in Maryland?
Maryland is now a “shall issue” state for concealed carry permits due to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022). This landmark ruling struck down “may issue” permitting schemes that required applicants to show a “good and substantial reason” to carry a firearm. As a result, Maryland must issue a Wear and Carry Permit to any qualified applicant, unless the State can demonstrate that the person is legally disqualified.
To obtain a Wear and Carry Permit in Maryland, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Submit to fingerprinting and a background check
- Complete 16 hours of approved firearms training (plus 8 hours for renewals)
- Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law
Open carry of a handgun is legal only with a valid Wear and Carry Permit. Without a permit, open carry is generally prohibited. Concealed carry without a permit remains a criminal offense that can result in jail time and fines.
The Bruen decision significantly expanded access to carry permits in Maryland, but enforcement remains strict, and permit holders must comply with all other state gun laws — including restrictions on carrying in certain public places like schools, government buildings, and polling sites.
Prohibited Firearms and Magazine Limits
Maryland law bans the possession, sale, or transfer of:
- Assault weapons, including AR-15-style rifles
- High-capacity magazines that hold more than 10 rounds
- Machine guns and unregistered short-barreled rifles or shotguns
- “Ghost guns” (untraceable firearms without serial numbers)
Possessing or transporting these weapons can lead to felony charges and significant prison time.
Safe Storage and Transportation Laws
Firearms must be securely stored and transported properly under Maryland law:
- Guns should be unloaded and stored in a locked container when not in use
- Ammunition should be stored separately
- Transportation must be direct and uninterrupted (e.g., from home to a range)
Failure to follow these rules can result in misdemeanor charges and revocation of your gun rights.
Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Maryland
Gun law violations can range from misdemeanors to felonies. Common offenses include:
- Illegal possession of a regulated firearm: up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Possession by a prohibited person: up to 15 years, with a 5-year mandatory minimum
- Possession of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime: additional 5–20 years
- Possession on school property: up to 3 years in prison and fines
Gun Charges in Southern Maryland
Gun crimes are aggressively prosecuted in Charles, Prince George’s, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties. If you’re facing charges, it’s critical to work with a Southern Maryland criminal defense lawyer who understands both state and federal firearm laws.
At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we help clients fight back against unlawful searches, illegal stops, and questionable charges. Many gun cases can be dismissed, downgraded, or resolved through suppression motions and pretrial negotiation.
Call to Action
If you’ve been charged with a firearm offense in Maryland, don’t wait to build your defense. Contact Southern Maryland Criminal Defense today for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
