What are the requirements for a Connecticut Pistol Permit?

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, and submit fingerprints. The application is processed by Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU).

Is training required for a Connecticut Pistol Permit?

Yes. Connecticut requires firearms training to obtain the Pistol Permit. An approved handgun safety course — at minimum the NRA Basic Pistol Course — must be completed before applying (Conn. Gen. Stat. §29-28).

How long does it take to get a Connecticut Pistol Permit?

Connecticut has not published a specific processing-time estimate for the Pistol Permit — check with Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU) for current wait times.

Can non-residents get a Connecticut Pistol Permit?

Yes. Connecticut issues a Pistol Permit to qualifying non-residents.

How much does the Connecticut Pistol Permit cost, and how long is it valid?

The application fee is $70. $70 for the initial local permit and $70 for the state permit / renewal, payable to the Treasurer, State of Connecticut, plus fingerprint/background-check costs. The permit is valid for 5 years before renewal.

This is not legal advice.Concealed-carry reciprocity changes frequently and carries serious legal consequences. Verify current law with the destination state's official source before you carry.

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Connecticut Pistol Permit Requirements

How to get a Connecticut Connecticut State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers (Pistol Permit): fees, training, fingerprints, processing time, and renewal.

How to apply

Application fee: $70 — $70 for the initial local permit and $70 for the state permit / renewal, payable to the Treasurer, State of Connecticut, plus fingerprint/background-check costs.
Minimum age: 21
Training: Required — An approved handgun safety course — at minimum the NRA Basic Pistol Course — must be completed before applying (Conn. Gen. Stat. §29-28).
Fingerprints: Required
Processing time: See official source
Validity / renewal: 5 years, then renewal
Residency: Open to non-residents
Non-resident permit: Available

Applications are processed by Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU).

Steps to get a Connecticut Pistol Permit

Confirm you are eligible. Be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law.
Complete the required firearms training. An approved handgun safety course — at minimum the NRA Basic Pistol Course — must be completed before applying (Conn. Gen. Stat. §29-28).
Get fingerprinted. Submit fingerprints for the state and FBI background check as part of the application.
Submit your application to Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU). File your Connecticut State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers (Pistol Permit) application with Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU). See the official page for forms and instructions.
Pay the application fee. Pay the Pistol Permit application fee of $70. $70 for the initial local permit and $70 for the state permit / renewal, payable to the Treasurer, State of Connecticut, plus fingerprint/background-check costs.
Receive your permit and note the renewal date. Once approved, your Pistol Permit is valid for 5 years, after which it must be renewed.

Last verified 2026-07-10 against Connecticut DESPP — State Pistol Permit.

Verify Connecticut rules on the official page →

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Connecticut Pistol Permit FAQ

What are the requirements for a Connecticut Pistol Permit?: Applicants must be at least 21 years old, and submit fingerprints. The application is processed by Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU).
Is training required for a Connecticut Pistol Permit?: Yes. Connecticut requires firearms training to obtain the Pistol Permit. An approved handgun safety course — at minimum the NRA Basic Pistol Course — must be completed before applying (Conn. Gen. Stat. §29-28).
How long does it take to get a Connecticut Pistol Permit?: Connecticut has not published a specific processing-time estimate for the Pistol Permit — check with Local authority (police chief / first selectman) then Connecticut State Police (DESPP-SLFU) for current wait times.
Can non-residents get a Connecticut Pistol Permit?: Yes. Connecticut issues a Pistol Permit to qualifying non-residents.
How much does the Connecticut Pistol Permit cost, and how long is it valid?: The application fee is $70. $70 for the initial local permit and $70 for the state permit / renewal, payable to the Treasurer, State of Connecticut, plus fingerprint/background-check costs. The permit is valid for 5 years before renewal.

Sources

Connecticut DESPP — State Pistol Permit (2026-07-10)