New York City

Purchase License: The city has its own regulations, which differ from the state’s. Individuals must appear in person to file a 17-page Handgun Purchase Authorization Form and pay $340 for the application and $89.75 for fingerprinting. They must provide an original Social Security card, birth certificate, two recent color photographs and other documents. Applicants who have lived in the United States for less than seven years must also provide two letters of reference certifying to their good character. Any adults living with the applicant must give consent for the awarding of the license and storage of a firearm in the home. Applicants must also appoint a guardian for any firearms in the event of disability or death.

Information requested in the form include:

Employment dismissals

Rejections from military service

Mental health history, including medications taken, hospitalizations and treatment

Narcotics and tranquilizer use, with contact information of prescribers

History of epilepsy, diabetes, fainting spells, blackouts, temporary loss of memory or any nervous disorder.

The New York Police Department also interviews all applicants.

Background Checks: Besides the standard federal checks, the Police Department can reject anyone it determines lacks the “character and fitness” for a license. The department examines individuals’ arrest histories, even if charges were dismissed and sealed. A history of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or even a history of moving violations and failure to appear for summonses could be grounds for rejection.



Minimum Age: 21



Limits on Handgun Purchases: One handgun, pistol or revolver may be purchased every 90 days.

Registration: Handguns must be registered within 72 hours of purchase.