Empire Shield FAQ’s

NYC Concealed Carry License FAQs

Getting a New York City Concealed Carry License can feel complicated. Empire Shield helps simplify the process by guiding clients through the application, required documentation, training, submission, and licensing process from start to finish.

What is a NYC Concealed Carry License?

A New York City Concealed Carry License is a handgun license issued through the NYPD License Division that allows an eligible license holder to carry a concealed handgun, subject to New York State and New York City laws, restrictions, and prohibited locations.

Do I need a NYC license to carry a handgun in New York City?

Yes. A handgun license issued outside New York City does not, by itself, generally authorize you to carry a handgun within New York City. You must have the appropriate NYC authorization to lawfully carry within the five boroughs.

Do I have to live in New York City to apply?

No. New York City has established a process for qualified non-New York State residents to apply for a NYC concealed carry handgun license. Your residency and existing licenses will determine the documentation required for your application.

Can New Jersey residents apply for a NYC Concealed Carry License?

Yes. A qualified New Jersey resident may apply for a New York City concealed carry license through the NYPD License Division’s non-resident process. Empire Shield can assist with preparing the NYC application and supporting documentation.

Do I need to show a special reason or “proper cause” to get a NYC Concealed Carry License?

No. New York’s former “proper cause” requirement was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022. Applicants are still required to satisfy the other eligibility, documentation, training, background, and licensing requirements.

How old do I have to be to apply?

Generally, applicants must be at least 21 years old unless a specific statutory exception applies.

Where do I apply?

NYC handgun license applications are processed through the NYPD License Division. Applications are initiated through the NYPD Permitting & Licensing online portal.

What documents will I need?

The exact documents depend on your individual circumstances. Applicants should expect to provide identification, proof of residence, required affidavits and questionnaires, character references, training documentation, and other supporting records requested by the NYPD.

Certain circumstances—including prior arrests, summonses, orders of protection, military service, name changes, prior licenses, or other background history—may require additional documentation.

Empire Shield reviews your individual situation and helps identify what should be included before your application is submitted.

Do I need character references?

Yes. NYC concealed carry applicants are generally required to provide character references as part of the licensing process.

Do I need firearm training before receiving my license?

Yes. New York’s concealed carry training standard includes 16 hours of in-person classroom instruction and 2 hours of live-fire training, commonly referred to as the NYS 18-Hour Concealed Carry Course.

Applicants must successfully complete the required written and live-fire proficiency components.

Do I need to already own a handgun to apply?

No. You do not need to already own a handgun simply to begin the NYC concealed carry application process. Firearm purchasing and registration are handled in accordance with NYPD procedures once you reach the appropriate stage of the licensing process.

Do I need firearm experience before applying?

No. You do not need to be an experienced shooter to begin the process.

Empire Shield can help new applicants become comfortable with basic firearm safety, handling, range procedures, and the overall licensing process before completing the required training.

Will I be fingerprinted?

Yes. Fingerprinting and a background investigation are part of the NYC handgun licensing process.

Is there an interview?

Applicants should be prepared for the NYPD licensing process to include an interview and requests for additional information or documentation when applicable.

What if I’ve been arrested before?

A prior arrest does not automatically answer whether you will or will not qualify.

The circumstances, disposition, and other factors matter. Applicants should fully and accurately disclose information required by the application and provide supporting documentation when requested.

If you have prior arrests, summonses, orders of protection, or other potentially relevant history, Empire Shield can help you identify the documentation that may be needed for your application.

What if my arrest was dismissed, sealed, or expunged?

Do not assume that a sealed, dismissed, or otherwise closed matter does not need to be addressed.

NYC firearm licensing applications contain detailed background questions. Your answers should be complete and accurate based on exactly what the application asks. Supporting dispositions or other court records may also be required.

How much are the NYPD application fees?

The NYPD currently lists a $340 handgun license application fee and an $89.75 fingerprint fee. Government fees are separate from Empire Shield’s service fees and are generally non-refundable.

How long does the NYC CCW process take?

Processing times vary. The NYPD states that the entire application process can take several months, and an individual application may move faster or slower depending on the applicant, documentation, investigation, and License Division workload.

Empire Shield does not guarantee a specific approval date.

Does hiring Empire Shield guarantee that my application will be approved?

No. All licensing decisions are made by the NYPD License Division.

Our job is to help you navigate the process, properly prepare your application package, identify required documentation, complete the necessary steps, and reduce avoidable errors or missing information.

Can I carry anywhere in NYC once I receive my license?

No. A NYC Concealed Carry License does not give you unrestricted authority to carry everywhere.

New York law restricts firearm possession in numerous sensitive or otherwise prohibited locations, and additional restrictions may apply depending on the property and circumstances. License holders are responsible for understanding and complying with current New York State and New York City firearm laws.

Can I carry on the NYC subway?

Generally, no. New York law identifies public transportation as a sensitive location subject to firearm restrictions, with limited statutory exceptions.

Can I carry in restaurants?

It depends on the establishment and circumstances. New York law places restrictions on carrying firearms in certain locations, including locations where alcohol is consumed, and private property owners may also prohibit firearms.

License holders should verify the current law before carrying into any location where restrictions may apply.

Can I keep my firearm in my vehicle?

Possession and transportation of firearms in New York are subject to specific licensing, location, storage, and transportation requirements. Having a NYC carry license does not eliminate those requirements.

Can I purchase a handgun after receiving my NYC license?

Yes, subject to applicable federal, state, and NYC purchasing and registration requirements. NYC has its own procedures for purchasing and adding handguns to a license.

Is a NYC Concealed Carry License the same as a Rifle/Shotgun Permit?

No. NYC treats handgun licenses and rifle/shotgun permits separately.

If you want to possess a rifle or shotgun in New York City, you may also need an NYC Rifle/Shotgun Permit even if you already hold a concealed carry handgun license.

Can Empire Shield help me obtain both?

Yes. Empire Shield assists clients with NYC Concealed Carry applications as well as NYC Rifle/Shotgun Permit applications. Clients already completing a concealed carry application can also add Rifle/Shotgun application assistance to their service.

What does Empire Shield help me with?

Empire Shield provides hands-on guidance throughout the licensing process, including application preparation, required forms and supporting documentation, portal guidance, document review, firearm familiarization and live-fire training support, coordination for the required NYS concealed carry course, final application review, submission guidance, and continued support during the investigation process.

Our goal is simple: make a complicated process organized, understandable, and manageable from beginning to end.

I’m ready to start. What’s the first step?

Contact Empire Shield to begin your onboarding.

We’ll review your situation, explain the process, provide the documents and information needed to get started, and walk you through each stage of your NYC Concealed Carry License application.

EMPIRE SHIELD
NYC Firearms Licensing Guidance & Training

Empire Shield is an independent firearms licensing and training service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the NYPD, the City of New York, or any government agency. Licensing decisions are made solely by the applicable licensing authority. Information provided is for general informational and application-support purposes and should not be considered legal advice.