GLOSSARY
- Glossary of NYC Firearm Terms
NYC Firearm Terms
This glossary explains common firearm and licensing terms used in New York City.
Definitions are provided for educational purposes only and are not legal advice.
Concealed Carry License
A New York State license that allows an individual to carry a concealed handgun, subject to strict NYC and state restrictions, including sensitive location laws.
Approval is determined solely by the NYPD Licensing Division or applicable authority.
Premises License
A firearm license that allows possession of a handgun only at a specific residence or business address listed on the license. Carry outside that location is generally prohibited.
NYPD Licensing Division
The New York City agency responsible for reviewing firearm license applications, conducting background investigations, issuing approvals or denials, and enforcing licensing rules.
NYC Concealed Carry is not affiliated with the NYPD.
DCJS (Division of Criminal Justice Services)
A New York State agency that establishes training standards and curriculum requirements for firearm education and certification.
18-Hour Training Course
The state-mandated concealed carry training requirement, consisting of:
- 16 hours of classroom instruction
- 2 hours of live-fire range training
Completion of this course is required to apply for a concealed carry license.
Live-Fire Training
Supervised shooting instruction conducted at a licensed range using live ammunition. This portion is required by New York State for concealed carry certification.
Live-Fire Qualification
A required shooting exercise demonstrating basic firearm safety and handling under instructor supervision. This is not a competition and is focused on safety and compliance.
Sensitive Locations
Areas where firearm carry is restricted or prohibited under New York law. These may include:
- Government buildings
- Schools
- Public transportation areas
- Certain private properties
Students are responsible for understanding current sensitive location laws.
Purchase Order
Written authorization issued by the NYPD allowing an approved applicant to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer.
A firearm may not be purchased without this authorization.
Licensing Portal
The NYPD’s online system used to submit firearm license applications, upload documents, schedule fingerprinting, and track application status.
Fingerprinting
A required step in the licensing process where applicants submit fingerprints for background checks conducted by the NYPD.
Background Investigation
A comprehensive review conducted by the licensing authority that may include:
- Criminal history
- Mental health records (where applicable)
- Employment history
- Character references
- Application accuracy
Investigator Interview
A scheduled meeting with an NYPD investigator as part of the application review process. Applicants may be asked about background information and application details.
Legal Use of Force
New York Penal Law standards governing when and how force may be legally used in self-defense. These laws are complex and heavily fact-dependent.
Training provides education, not legal advice.
De-Escalation
Strategies taught to avoid or reduce conflict whenever possible. New York law strongly favors avoidance and retreat where legally required.
Secure Storage
Legal requirements and best practices for safely storing firearms to prevent unauthorized access, including by children or other household members.
Less-Lethal Defensive Tools
Items such as pepper spray or personal safety devices that are legal in New York when used appropriately. These are not firearms and are subject to their own regulations.
Certification of Training Completion
Documentation provided after successfully completing required training. This certificate is submitted as part of the license application.
Certification is not a license.
Permit Approval
The final decision issued by the licensing authority granting or denying a firearm license. Training completion does not guarantee approval.
License Renewal
A periodic process required to maintain a valid firearm license. Some license holders must complete a 2-hour live-fire refresher course as part of renewal.
Non-Resident Applicant
An individual who does not live in New York City or New York State but may apply for certain firearm licenses under New York law, subject to approval.
Range Safety Rules
Mandatory safety procedures enforced at licensed shooting ranges, including safe firearm handling, eye and ear protection, and instructor supervision.
Training Provider
An organization authorized to deliver firearm education and training. Training providers do not issue licenses or approvals.
Important Reminder
Firearm laws and regulations change frequently. Applicants are responsible for staying informed and compliant with all current federal, state, and local laws.
Need Help Understanding the Process?
If you have questions about any term or requirement, contact NYC Concealed Carry for clarification before applying.