May Issue

What Does May Issue Mean?

May Issue means that applicants must pass basic requirements and the issuing authority (county sheriff, police department, etc.) is allowed to use their own discretion in either issuing or denying a permit. Some may-issue states require an applicant to show “good cause” for obtaining a permit, while others require the applicant to show he or she is of suitable character and may require character references in order to authorize a permit. Other states require a mental health records check. There are currently nine may-issue states.

California
Connecticut
Delaware
Hawaii
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Jersey
New York
Rhode Island (for permits issued by the Attorney General’s Office)

May Issue States

Related Articles From the USCCA Ask An Attorney Series

What Is the Difference Between May-Issue, Shall-Issue and Constitutional Carry?

USCCA — August 17, 2019

May-Issue vs. Shall-Issue Concealed Carry States

USCCA — April 20, 2019

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