If you are in possession of a regulated firearm before October 1, 2013, you must apply for the HQL (Handgun Qualification License). However, you won't need to undergo the mandatory training component as you are exempt from it. After October 1, 2013, you may not rent, buy, or receive a handgun unless you possess a valid HQL that the Maryland State Police has issued.
What’s HQL Training?
Handgun
Qualification License (HQL) training refers to a four-hour instruction block. It includes both
classroom and on-field training components. If you plan to enroll in Practical
Training Professionals’ HQL classes and training in Central Maryland, near
Baltimore, you can expect to learn and train for the following:
The
classroom training part will teach you about Maryland’s firearm law pertaining
to firearms and self-defense. You will also learn about the diverse varieties
of handguns and their parts, the basics of shooting, and disassembly, cleaning,
and reassembly of a handgun.
The on-field
or hands-on training section will give you the chance to disassemble, clean,
and reassemble handguns. You will also learn about the various holster types
and practice safe and efficient procedures to draw and reholster your handguns,
in addition to shooting more than 50 rounds of ammunition on the range.
You must
take HQL training
courses approved by the MSP (Maryland State Police). With qualified and
experienced handgun instructors of Practical Training Professionals, you can
rest assured of being trained the right way and getting your HQL with ease.
It will be
wise to remember that your HQL training remains valid for three years. You must
complete it before applying for a
Handgun Qualification License.
Do I Need an HQL in Maryland?
You are
exempt from possessing a Handgun Qualification License if you are:
A member or
retired member of the United States Armed Forces or National Guard.
A Licensed
Firearms Manufacturer.
An active
law enforcement officer or an individual retired on good terms from a law
enforcement agency of the nation, the State, or a local law enforcement
organization of the State.
An
individual renting, buying, or getting a curio, an antique, or a relic as
outlined in federal law or in determinations issued by the BATFE (Bureau of
Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives).
If you
belong to any of the above-listed categories, you must provide adequate
documents or legitimate credentials to a regulated firearms dealer before
buying or transporting a regulated firearm.
For all
other Maryland residents, it’s mandatory to possess and present a valid HQL
before buying or transporting a regulated firearm.
You will be
needed to have a HQL but get an exemption from the training component if you:
Are
presently a qualified handgun instructor.
Have
finished a series of lessons and received a Certificate of Competency in
Firearms and Hunter Safety from the Maryland DNR (Department of Natural
Resources).
Have finished an MSP-approved certified firearms
safety course.
Are an honorably
discharged member of the United States Armed Forces or National Guard.
Work at an
armored car company with a legitimate Wear and Carry
Permit issued by the MSP.
Are the
lawful possessor of a regulated firearm. If you are in possession of a regulated
firearm before October 1, 2013, you don’t need to finish the training and may
apply for your HQL.
From knowing
whether you need to train for your HQL to undergoing the training, applying for
your HQL, and finally, getting it, everything is super-easy with the guidance
of Practical
Training Professionals.
Original Sources: https://www.ptpgun.com/post/hql-classes-and-training-in-central-maryland-near-baltimore