Firearms Licensing

Massachusetts firearms licensing requirements, procedures, and regulations.

Start here: Massachusetts Gun License (LTC): How to Apply in 2026

Where to apply for an LTC or FID in your town

The police department, its address and phone, and the rules it publishes, for each of the 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts.

License to Carry (LTC)

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

Firearm Licensing Review Board: Section 130B
Section 130B provides a limited restoration path for applicants whose sole disqualifier is an eligible Massachusetts conviction or adjudication. It is not a general appeal board for license denials, suspensions, restrictions, or revocations.
Effective
How to Apply for a Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC)
A complete walkthrough of the Massachusetts LTC application process. The amended Section 131P took effect January 25, 2026, and courses conducted on or after April 2, 2026 use the expanded curriculum, without live fire until implementing regulations are in place.

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 narrowed the FID's scope by requiring an LTC for semiautomatic rifles and shotguns, with limited exceptions.

Dealer Licensing

Requirements and procedures for obtaining a Massachusetts firearms dealer license.

Massachusetts Dealer License Requirements
Massachusetts General Laws chapter 140, section 122 provides the state license to sell firearms, and section 128 punishes a person who sells, rents, leases or otherwise transfers a firearm without that license or an exemption under section 129C. Federal law separately requires a federal license for a person engaging in the business of dealing in firearms. This article covers licensing, premises, records, and current transaction duties.

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 generally valid for one year, or up to two years for certain endorsed employees and stationed military members, and processing includes a state and federal background check, a fingerprint based background check, and a check with the Department of Mental Health.