Firearms Licensing Instructions and Application
An appointment is not required to drop off an application or renewal form
For any Licensing Processing inquiries, please contact Det. Christopher Mauti
New Firearms Applicants who are applying for a License to Carry or Firearms Identification Card are required to provide the following documentation:
- Completed Application (Must be the current LTC-FID Application revised May 2015). You can also apply online via the new MIRCS Firearms Licensing Portal
- Copy of Safety Course Certificate
- PROOF OF CHELMSFORD RESIDENCY: Government-issued ID (drivers license, government issued ID
- A CHECK FOR $100 PAYABLE TO “THE TOWN OF CHELMSFORD” ***If applying via the MIRCS Firearms Licensing Portal, you will still need to provide a check before you application is processed by the firearms officer.
You will then be contacted by phone to schedule a time to come in for fingerprinting
(Expect delays).
LTC – Handgun Safety Course OR Massachusetts Hunter Safety Course
FID – Handgun Safety Course OR Massachusetts Hunter Safety Course
(Active military and members of the National Guard may provide documentation in lieu of safety course.)
Renewal Applicants, please turn in the following:
- Completed Renewal Application (Must be the current LTC-FID Application revised May 2015) Renewals can also be completed on MIRCS Firearms Licensing Portal
- PROOF OF CHELMSFORD RESIDENCY: Government issued ID (drivers license, government issued ID)
- A CHECK PAYABLE TO “THE TOWN OF CHELMSFORD” The payment schedule for renewals is as follows:
License to Carry Firearms: $100
Firearms Identification Card: $100
Current or retired Law Enforcement: $25
(No fee for renewal applicants age 70 or older)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the new Basic Firearms Safety Course be available?
A: The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security is actively working with the Massachusetts State Police and the Massachusetts Police Training Commission to implement the requirements of Section 74. This includes developing a new curriculum for the Basic Firearms Safety Course, which will be ready by the deadlines set by the new law.
Q: Can the Chelmsford Police Department accept a Basic Firearms Safety Certificate under the current law before the new law takes effect?
A: Yes, the Chelmsford Police Department may continue to accept Basic Firearms Safety Certificates under the current law until Section 74 goes into effect in April 2026.
Q: If I am issued a Firearms Identification (FID) card or License to Carry (LTC) after August 1, 2024, but before the new law takes effect, will I need to take the new Basic Firearms Safety Course when I renew my license?
A: Yes, if you applied for the permit or license after August 1, 2024.
For example, if you applied on August 2, 2024, you will need to complete the new Basic Firearms Safety Course, including live fire requirements, when you renew in 2030. The details of the new course will be posted on our website once determined.
Q: Can I apply for or renew a License to Carry (LTC) in the town where I own a business?
A: No. Applicants can only apply for or renew a firearms license in the city or town where they reside. Non-residents can apply through the Firearms Record Bureau.
Q: I am moving to Massachusetts. Do I need to register my firearms and obtain a License to Carry (LTC)?
A: Yes. New residents of Massachusetts have 60 days to obtain a firearms license. Once the license is issued, firearms must be registered.
Q: Do I need to register all of my firearms?
A: Yes, but registration in the new system will not be required until October 23, 2026. The Commonwealth is currently developing a new registration system and will provide further instructions closer to that date.
Q: How do I update my address on my LTC?
A: Address changes for your LTC must be updated through the new MIRCS Firearms Licensing Portal. Paper address change submissions will no longer be accepted by the Chelmsford Police Department or the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.