1. What types of gun permits are there and how much do they cost? (Permits are referred to as Firearms Identification Cards or FID's and License to Carry or LTC).
The license types that most people apply for are:
- Firearms Identification Card (FID) – Restricted (self-defense spray) – Cost $25.00 under 18 years old but older than 15 years old – no license needed for people over 18 years old.
- Firearms Identification Card (FID) – Cost $100.00 for 18 and over- between 15 years old and 17 years old the cost is $25.00
- License to Carry (LTC) Class A – Cost $100.00 (large and no-large capacity rifles, shotguns, and firearms)
All permits are issued for a period of six years.
2. How old must you be to obtain an FID or LTC?
You must be 21 to obtain a LTC. You may obtain an FID card if you have reached the age 15, provided the child has a letter from their parent allowing the child to obtain a permit.
3. Do I have to take a firearms safety course?
Yes. All applicants must successfully complete a Massachusetts Firearms Safety course or a Hunter Safety Course. The course is required for first time applicants. Those seeking renewals are not required to retake the safety course. If you were licensed in another state or are in the military, you will still need to complete a Firearms Safety course.
4. Where can I take a Firearms Safety Course?
Some local places that offer approved Firearms Safety courses are: Northampton Revolver Club 413-586-7821, Holyoke Revolver Club 413-539-9345 or through the Massachusetts Wildlife Hunter Education Course 1-617-727-3623.
5. If I live in another town or city, can I still get a permit in Northampton?
Generally, no. However, if you own a business in Northampton you may be eligible to obtain a permit from Northampton.
6. How do I get a permit?
You can pick up an application in the police department lobby or click the link under forms and reports that will direct you to Mass.gov to get an application.
New applicants:
- Complete the Massachusetts Resident LTC/FID/Machine Gun Application.
- Attach a copy of the Massachusetts Basic Firearms Safety Certificate or Hunter Safety Course Certificate.
- A check for $100.00 made out to the City of Northampton. The payment is non-refundable.
- The Firearms Clerk will start to process your application and then call you to set up an appointment to be fingerprinted.
Renewal applicants:
- Complete the Massachusetts Resident LTC/FID/Machine Gun Application.
- Be sure to also complete page 4 which is the Massachusetts LTC/FID Affidavit.
- A check for $100.00 made out to the City of Northampton. The payment is non-refundable.
- There is no fee for applicants who are 70 years or older at the time of application.
All applicants:
- You may mail it to Northampton Police Department, 29 Center Street, Northampton, MA 01060 or put in the drop box next to the Records Bureau in the lobby of the Police Department.
- A criminal check will be completed. This will determine if you have any criminal matters that would disqualify you from obtaining a permit.
- A check with the Department of Mental Health for any involvement will be completed. If you have ever been confined for mental health treatment/substance abuse it could be a reason for denial of your permit.
- A check of the Northampton Police Department’s in-house records will be completed.
7. Once I file my application, how long does it take to receive my FID or LTC?
Generally, it takes approximately 8-10 weeks to process from application submission to an FID/LTC card being issued.
8. Once I am licensed, how do I store my weapons?
It is mandatory that all weapons must be stored in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device so as to render the weapon inoperable by any person other than the owner or lawfully authorized person.
9. Where do I register my firearms?
To record the ownership, sale, transfer, or loss of a firearm go to the Massachusetts Gun Transaction Portal on the Mass.gov website.