Applying for your carry permit in New Jersey can be broken down into a five-step process. Follow along the next five weeks where we break down each step. From getting your Firearms ID card to choosing the right gun for you, to shooting the qualification course. Each step is also broken down on our website GunForHire.com/NJCCW. If at any point you have questions, please send an email to [email protected] or stop in Gun For Hire anytime we are open.

Below is Gun For Hire’s five-step process to carry:

Step 1: I need to apply for a FID Card and/or Pistol Purchase Permit.

Step 2: I need to determine and purchase the right pistol I would like to carry.

Step 3: Before I qualify, I’d like lessons or to practice with my carry gun.

Step 4: I need to shoot the qualification course.

Step 5: I’m ready to apply for my carry license online.

This week we are discussing Step 1.

Step 1: I Need My FID Card and/Or Pistol Purchase Permit

What is an FID card? In New Jersey, you need a Firearms Identification (FID) card to own and transport firearms. With an FID card, you are able to purchase long guns (rifles and shotguns) as frequently as you would like in the State of New Jersey. To purchase handguns, you need an additional permit, a Pistol Purchase Permit, for every handgun you intend to purchase. You can only purchase one handgun every 30 days.

To apply for your FID card and/or get a pistol purchase permit, New Jersey has an online system called the Firearms Application & Registration System (FARS). You can visit the online system to apply here: www.njportal.com/njsp/FARS

GFH Tip: Here are a few things you should have ready before you visit the website to apply. You will need two references. Make sure to ask your references for their full name, phone number, email address, mailing address, and how long you have known them. Make sure they are OK with you listing them as they will receive an email with a questionnaire to answer on your behalf. You will also need to list a 10-year history of where you have lived with move-in and move-out dates. This 10-year history applies to moves in New Jersey and any places you have lived outside of New Jersey.

After you apply online for your FID card you will receive an email informing you how to make an appointment to be digitally fingerprinted. Please ensure you take care of this quickly as it will help expedite your FID card approval.

Once approved, which can take months depending on your town, your FID card and Permits to Purchase Handguns will be sent to you via email. Make sure to frequently check your spam if your permits are not issued within 60 days! You can then visit Gun For Hire to choose the best firearm for you!

We hope you enjoyed this week’s tip. Curious about shooting for the first time, or looking for advanced holster training? We would love to welcome you to Gun For Hire to experience our 6-Star Family Gun Range, Gun Store and Training!