With some of the most robust gun laws in the nation, Massachusetts claims one of the lowest gun death rates among the states. It also has one of the lowest rates of gun ownership in the country. These statistics and others that will follow in this two-part gun law series examine how the Commonwealth regulates the sale, possession, and use of firearms and ammunition.
According to the Annual Gifford Gun Law Scorecard, the states with the strongest and most restrictive gun laws have fewer gun deaths. Massachusetts has long been a leader in the country in terms of gun laws and is one of the only states to bar gun purchases by people with outstanding warrants and to require secure storage for any firearm not in the owner’s immediate control.
In this first part of our gun law series, let’s take a closer look at some of the requirements and terminology used in gun ownership and possession.


What Firearm Licensing Does Massachusetts Require?
To obtain proper gun licensing in Massachusetts, a resident should visit their local or municipal police department where they can fill out the proper forms. Two of the main forms of licenses are broken down by the type of firearm being applied for. These fall into the categories of Firearm Identification Card or License to Carry.
A firearm Identification Card (FIC) is required to purchase, possess, and transport non-large-capacity rifles, shotguns, and ammunition.
License to Carry is required to purchase, possess, transport, and carry of all large- and non-large-capacity handguns, rifles, shotguns, and feeding devices, as well as ammunition.
What Is the Application Process Like in Massachusetts?
Since the municipal police department is the licensing authority in Massachusetts, a visit to your local police headquarters is the best place to start. There you will find the forms, fees and processes that will be required to obtain a license in the state.
After filling out the forms, proving age requirements and identification, the police department will undergo a background check to determine if you have any disqualifying conditions such as a past felony, a past misdemeanor that required imprisonment over two years, a mental illness that required hospitalization, a substance abuse issue, domestic violence history, or an active warrant for your arrest.


What Are the Age Requirements for Owning or Possessing a Firearm?
According to Mass State Law, no one under 18 years of age may purchase a firearm or ammunition, and no one under 21 years of age may purchase a handgun, large capacity weapon or large capacity feeding device.
As a side note, the law also states that “Persons more than 15 but less than 18 years of age” may apply for an FID if the applicant submits a certificate from his or her parent or guardian granting the applicant permission to apply for an FID.
What Training Is Required in Massachusetts?
In accordance with Mass State Law MGL Ch. 140, Sec. 131P all first-time firearm license applicants must successfully complete a MA Certified Firearms Safety Course or a Basic Hunter Education Course and submit a certificate of completion with their firearms license application.
Many local police departments offer safety courses that can keep families and individuals safe.
Massachusetts’ stringent firearm laws go into further detail about concealed and open carry laws, transporting guns, safe storage, and Stand Your Ground.
For more information about firearm requirements, disqualifiers and charges, contact the team at the Law Office of Patrick Conway in Salem, Massachusetts.