Whether you’re new to owning a firearm or have had a gun for home defense for years, getting a concealed carry permit may seem daunting. It doesn’t have to be. There are many reasons and ways to carry a concealed weapon, but the first step is knowing the laws. Applying for a CCW varies by state. Read about the process for getting a New Hampshire Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) below.

Similar to permit requirements, states vary greatly in their processes for how an applicant obtains a concealed handgun permit, what their permits/licenses are called, whether licenses include photographs, whether fingerprinting is required, license duration, license costs and turnaround times. Some states allow an applicant to complete an application online, while others require an in-person visit to the office of the respective issuing authority. There are even states that require the applicant to provide a list of non-related character references.

Concealed Carry Permit Basics 

New Hampshire is a shall-issue, permitless carry state. Shall-issue means licensing authorities are compelled to issue a license as long as an applicant meets the basic requirements set out by state law. Residents apply to the local law enforcement office, and non-residents to the State Department of Justice.

Open carry and concealed carry are legal in New Hampshire without a license for anyone at least 18 years of age who can legally possess a firearm. Pistol/Revolver Licenses (PRLs) are issued to residents and non-residents for reciprocity purposes. No fingerprinting or photograph is required for a PRL.

In terms of reciprocity, since New Hampshire has permitless carry, any person 18 years of age and older that can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a license or permit.

Federally Prohibited Persons

The Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 and the Federal Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act of 1997 make it illegal for a person who fits into any of the prohibited categories to ship, transport, receive or possess firearms or ammunition. These laws prevent a state from issuing a concealed handgun permit/license as it would be illegal for people who fit in these categories, by federal law, to own or possess a gun.

What Are the License Requirements in New Hampshire?

An applicant must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Give the names and addresses of three references
  • Provide his or her driver’s license number
  • Meet federal law requirements

Do I Need Firearms Training in New Hampshire?

No. New Hampshire law does not require applicants for a license to carry a firearm to undergo firearms safety training or otherwise demonstrate knowledge of firearms safety. However, the USCCA recommends that anyone who makes the choice to carry a concealed firearm obtain as much training as possible in order to be a responsibly armed American.

Find a Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals Class from the USCCA near you!

How Do I Get a Concealed Handgun Permit in New Hampshire?

Step 1: Download the resident application or non-resident application.

Step 2: Take the completed application to your local law enforcement office (may be Town Selectman, Mayor, Chief of Police or County Sheriff) or the State Police if a non-resident. You will need the names of three persons for references.

Non-resident applications should be mailed to:

NH State Police
Permits and License Unit
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305

Step 3: You will be notified within 14 days whether your application has been approved or denied.

 

For more information, visit the USCCA New Hampshire gun laws page now…