A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Your Permit

If you’re a Minnesota resident considering getting a concealed carry permit or non-resident looking to legally carry in Minnesota, it’s essential to understand the process to ensure you’re compliant with state laws and fully prepared. 

Minnesota has specific regulations governing concealed carry, and knowing how to navigate this process can make all the difference in securing your permit. In this blog post, we’ll break down the step-by-step process to help you understand how to obtain a concealed carry permit in Minnesota, including important requirements, application procedures, and tips to make the journey smoother.

1. Understand the Eligibility Requirements for Concealed Carry in Minnesota

Before applying for a concealed carry permit in Minnesota, ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements. These include:

• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a concealed carry permit.

• U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents.

• Criminal Background: You cannot have been convicted of a felony, nor can you have been convicted of certain misdemeanor offenses, particularly those involving violence or firearms.

• Mental Health: If you’ve been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility or deemed mentally incompetent by a court, you will be ineligible.

• Drug and Alcohol Issues: Applicants with a history of drug or alcohol abuse may not qualify for a permit.

• Domestic Violence Convictions: A conviction of domestic violence could prevent you from obtaining a concealed carry permit.

2. Complete a Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) Certified Training Course

Minnesota law requires that all applicants for a concealed carry permit complete a certified handgun safety training course. This course ensures that you are proficient in the proper handling and use of a firearm. Training courses must include both classroom instruction and a live-fire qualification exercise.

During the course, you will cover topics such as:

• Firearm safety

• Mindset

• Fundamentals

• Laws governing the use of deadly force

• Proper firearm handling and storage

• How to respond in dangerous situations

• What to do after the use of your firearm

• Live fire qualification

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a certificate that you will need when submitting your application for the concealed carry permit.

3. Submit Your Concealed Carry Application

Once you’ve completed the required training, the next step is to submit your application to the sheriff’s office in the county where you reside. Non-residents can apply at any sheriff’s office. You will need to submit the following:

• Completed application form: Available at your local sheriff’s office.

• Training certificate: Proof of completing the handgun safety training course.

• Your ID: Drivers license or other government issued ID

• Application fee: The cost typically ranges between $75 and $100. This fee is non-refundable, so ensure you meet all requirements before submitting your application.

It’s essential to be honest on your application and ensure that all information is accurate to avoid delays or denials in the process.

4. The Background Check Process

After submitting your application, the sheriff’s office will conduct a thorough background check. This process is crucial and can take up to 30 days. During the check, the sheriff’s office will verify your criminal history, mental health history, and any other factors that could impact your eligibility.

5. Wait for the Approval or Denial

Once the background check is complete, the sheriff’s office will notify you of their decision. Minnesota law mandates that a decision on your permit application must be made within 30 days. If your application is approved, you will be issued a concealed carry permit. If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision in court.

6. Receive Your Concealed Carry Permit

Once you are approved for your permit, you’ll receive it by mail. Your Minnesota concealed carry permit is valid for five years. You’ll need to renew your permit before it expires to continue carrying concealed legally.

7. Renewing Your Concealed Carry Permit

Renewal of your Minnesota concealed carry permit is relatively simple, but there are still a few things to keep in mind. To renew your permit, you must:

• Take another training course

• Apply for renewal with your local sheriff’s office.

• Pay the renewal fee (typically less than the original fee).

Renewals are required every five years, and if you meet all the eligibility requirements, you should not face any significant challenges in getting your permit renewed.

8. Important Considerations for Concealed Carry in Minnesota

While carrying a concealed weapon in Minnesota is legal with the proper permit, there are some important legal considerations to keep in mind:

• Open Carry: Your permit is good to carry a pistol open or concealed.

• Places where carry is prohibited: You cannot carry your concealed weapon in certain places, such as schools, government buildings, or anywhere under the influence of an intoxicant.

• Use of Force Laws: Minnesota law allows you to use deadly force in self-defense if you are facing a threat of death or great bodily harm. However, it is important to know when the use of deadly force is legally justified to avoid legal consequences.

• Traveling with your firearm: When traveling in or out of Minnesota, it’s crucial to understand other states’ laws regarding concealed carry. Minnesota has reciprocity agreements with some states, allowing permit holders to carry in those states, but not all states recognize Minnesota’s concealed carry permit.

9. Final Thoughts: The Importance of Responsible Concealed Carry

Obtaining a Minnesota concealed carry permit comes with significant responsibility. Along with the right to carry a concealed firearm, you must remain committed to maintaining proper firearm safety, continually educating yourself about the laws that govern concealed carry and exercising your right with great care.

Be sure to regularly practice your shooting skills and stay informed about any changes in Minnesota’s gun laws. With diligence and respect for the law, you can enjoy the benefits of concealed carry while keeping yourself and others safe.

Conclusion

Navigating the Minnesota concealed carry process can seem daunting at first, but by following these clear steps, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your permit. Remember to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, complete your training, and submit your application properly. 

Always be aware of local laws and the responsibilities that come with carrying a concealed weapon.

By staying informed and prepared, you can legally carry in Minnesota and have the confidence that you’re upholding both your rights and your responsibilities as a concealed carry permit holder.

Our course excides the minimum requirements of the state of Minnesota, and will set you up for success on your concealed carry journey!

Learn more about the course we offer here: https://life2a.com/class/mn-concealed-carry/

We offer these mostly in Winona, MN and Holmen, WI but can bring this course to you. Check out the courses we have coming up here: Upcoming Events

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