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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Massachusetts LTC Requirements
How to get a Massachusetts Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC): fees, training, fingerprints, processing time, and renewal.
How to apply
- Application fee
- $100 — $100 for a License to Carry (M.G.L. ch. 140 §131), valid six years.
- Minimum age
- 21
- Training
- Required — A Massachusetts-approved Basic Firearms Safety Course (or a Basic Hunter Education certificate) is required for a first-time LTC applicant (M.G.L. ch. 140 §131P).
- Fingerprints
- Required
- Processing time
- See official source
- Validity / renewal
- 6 years, then renewal
- Residency
- Open to non-residents
- Non-resident permit
- Available
Applications are processed by Local Police Department (licensing authority).
Steps to get a Massachusetts LTC
- 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. A Massachusetts-approved Basic Firearms Safety Course (or a Basic Hunter Education certificate) is required for a first-time LTC applicant (M.G.L. ch. 140 §131P).
- Get fingerprinted. Submit fingerprints for the state and FBI background check as part of the application.
- Submit your application to Local Police Department (licensing authority). File your Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC) application with Local Police Department (licensing authority). See the official page for forms and instructions.
- Pay the application fee. Pay the LTC application fee of $100. $100 for a License to Carry (M.G.L. ch. 140 §131), valid six years.
- Receive your permit and note the renewal date. Once approved, your LTC is valid for 6 years, after which it must be renewed.
Last verified 2026-07-10 against Massachusetts — Firearms License FAQs.
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Massachusetts LTC FAQ
- What are the requirements for a Massachusetts LTC?
- Applicants must be at least 21 years old, and submit fingerprints. The application is processed by Local Police Department (licensing authority).
- Is training required for a Massachusetts LTC?
- Yes. Massachusetts requires firearms training to obtain the LTC. A Massachusetts-approved Basic Firearms Safety Course (or a Basic Hunter Education certificate) is required for a first-time LTC applicant (M.G.L. ch. 140 §131P).
- How long does it take to get a Massachusetts LTC?
- Massachusetts has not published a specific processing-time estimate for the LTC — check with Local Police Department (licensing authority) for current wait times.
- Can non-residents get a Massachusetts LTC?
- Yes. Massachusetts issues a LTC to qualifying non-residents.
- How much does the Massachusetts LTC cost, and how long is it valid?
- The application fee is $100. $100 for a License to Carry (M.G.L. ch. 140 §131), valid six years. The permit is valid for 6 years before renewal.
Sources
- Massachusetts — Firearms License FAQs (2026-07-10)