Maryland Handgun Qualification License
Basic - The Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) course is generally considered a New Shooter course — though it can also serve as a Beginner-level course
Duration: 4 hours classroom, plus range
$100.00
Fee
| Date | Availability | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Register Now | October 25 Saturday |
Greenbelt, MD
|
3 - 10 Students | 9:00-2:00p | Andre Walker |
Description
Maryland HQL training is a New Shooter course — designed to provide first-time handgun buyers with the minimum safety, legal, and operational training needed to own and purchase a handgun in Maryland. It is not a defensive shooting or tactical course.
What courses to take after you complete Maryland HQL Course.
Phase 1 — Strengthen the fundamentals (0–2 months)
Courses
• NRA Basic Pistol (or equivalent Basic Handgun course) — formal fundamentals, safe handling, live fire.
• Private lesson (1–2 hrs) — one-on-one assessment & coaching to correct early bad habits.
Phase 2 — Build reliable live fire skills (2–6 months)
Courses
• Beginner/Intermediate Pistol (look for “Defensive Fundamentals” or “ Basic CCW Course or Maryland Wear and Carry”)
• Range Time / Coaching: several supervised range sessions with a qualified instructor.
Phase 3 — Defensive mindset & concealed carry skills (4–9 months)
Courses
• NRA Personal Protection In The Home (PPITH) — if you own a firearm for home defense.
• NRA Personal Protection Outside The Home (PPOTH) Level One — concealed carry-focused defensive skills.
Phase 4 — Advanced defensive/real world training (8–18 months)
Courses
• PPOTH Level Two or NRA Defensive Pistol — advanced shooting, movement, multi-targets.
• Low-light/No-light training — flashlight use, sighted vs point shooting.
Topics Covered
The 4 universal safety rules
Safe storage laws and practices
Handling, loading, and unloading a handgun
Legal requirements for handgun purchase
Transportation and possession rules
Overview of Maryland's self-defense laws (not in-depth)
Basic handgun parts and function
Ammunition types and safety
Dry-fire practice and safe handling
Must include a minimum of one shot fired with a handgun
Focus is on safe handling, not marksmanship or defensive shooting
Drawing from a holster
Defensive handgun techniques
Advanced accuracy, speed, or tactics
Use-of-force decision-making in depth
Expectations and Outcomes
Training certificate of completion and Handgun Qualification License that is good for ten (10) years from the date of issuance from Maryland State Police.
Types
Basic
Documentation Requirements
Requirements
No prior experience required
Meant to fulfill legal requirements for handgun purchase
Suitable for people who have never owned or handled a gun