Firearms Licensing

Massachusetts firearms licensing requirements, procedures, and regulations.

License to Carry (LTC)

Information about obtaining, renewing, and maintaining a Massachusetts License to Carry.

Firearm Licensing Review Board: Section 130B
The Firearm Licensing Review Board under Section 130B of Chapter 140 was originally created by Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2004 and amended by Chapter 284 of the Acts of 2014. Section 130B was not directly amended by Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024, though the Board's operations are affected by the restructured licensing framework under Section 121F. The board provides an administrative review process for applicants who are denied a firearms license, or whose license is revoked or restricted, supplementing the existing judicial appeal process.
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How to Apply for a Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC)
A complete walkthrough of the Massachusetts LTC application process, from safety course completion through license issuance. Updated for Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024, which transitioned applications to the Unified Gun Portal. The expanded Basic Firearms Safety Course curriculum, including live-fire training, is required as of April 2, 2026.

Firearms Identification Card (FID)

Information about the Firearms Identification Card for rifles, shotguns, and ammunition.

Massachusetts FID Card: Application Guide
The Firearms Identification Card (FID) allows Massachusetts residents to purchase, possess, and transport non-large-capacity, non-semiautomatic rifles and shotguns, and ammunition. Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024 significantly narrowed the FID's scope by requiring an LTC for all semiautomatic rifles and shotguns.

Dealer Licensing

Requirements and procedures for obtaining a Massachusetts firearms dealer license.

Massachusetts Dealer License Requirements
Massachusetts requires firearms dealers to hold both a state dealer license and a Federal Firearms License (FFL). This article covers the dual licensing requirements, zoning compliance, record-keeping obligations, and ongoing dealer responsibilities, updated for Chapter 135 amendments.

Non-Resident Permits

Temporary licenses and permits for non-residents of Massachusetts.

Non-Resident Temporary License to Carry
Non-residents may apply for a temporary License to Carry through the Massachusetts Firearms Records Bureau. The temporary license is valid for one year and requires a detailed application process including a background check and proof of residency in another state.