The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of New York as of 8/20/2025. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to  the State of New York legislation.  Another great resource is the New York State Police's web page on the topic of firearms.

The State of New York will issue a Non-Resident Permit under the same eligibilty requirement set for a Resident Permit.  The rules, types, and process to attain one are stated below.

Gun License: Summary of Eligibility

• Age and service: Applicants must generally be at least 21 years old; the age requirement is waived for honorably discharged veterans.
• Character and criminal history: Applicants must be of good moral character and must not have been convicted of a felony or a “serious offense.” Licenses are denied or revoked for qualifying convictions.
• Mental‑health and other disqualifiers: Applicants must disclose any history of mental illness or confinement for mental health reasons; certain mental‑health or family‑court orders or past license revocations/suspensions are disqualifying.
• Safety training (where required): Some localities (e.g., Westchester County) require completion of a firearms safety course and test; military or prior licensing/qualification can substitute in specified circumstances.
• “Good cause” and licensing officer discretion: A license will not be issued if the licensing officer finds good cause to deny it; the officer must investigate and confirm the truth of application statements before issuing or renewing a license.

Gun License: Types

• Business licenses: Separate licenses exist for gunsmiths and firearm dealers; business applicants must meet citizenship, age, and local‑business‑location requirements.
• Pistol/revolver licenses: Statutes permit licenses for possession in a dwelling by a householder, possession in a place of business by a merchant, concealed‑carry by certain employees (e.g., messengers), and concealed‑carry for specified public officials or institutional employees. Licenses can also be issued where “proper cause” exists for non‑employment concealed carry.
• Antique firearms: Special recognition is given to antique pistols and replicas that meet specified criteria.

Gun License: Application process

• Where to apply: Applications for carry/possession licenses are filed with the licensing officer in the city or county where the applicant resides, is principally employed, or has a business location; business/gunsmith licenses are filed where the business is located.
• Required information and documents: Applications must be signed and verified, include identifying information and recent photographs, and state compliance with eligibility criteria. Supporting documentation (training certificates, proof of military qualification, etc.) must be supplied as required.
• Background checks and investigation: Licensing officers will request police investigations and review criminal history and other records before deciding; special exemption requests (where applicable) trigger additional review steps and coordination with local police.

Key Resources & Contacts

• New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS):  Official portal for licensing, laws, and application procedures.

• New York Penal Law § 265.00 et seq.:  The legal backbone of firearms regulation in New York.

• BATFE - Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives:  Federal regulations regarding firearms.

• Local Law Enforcement Agencies
  Contact your county sheriff’s office or city police department for guidance on application procedures, restrictions in your jurisdiction, and licensing.