Step-By-Step Guide to the NYS Pistol & Semi-Automatic Rifle Permit Application Process

 

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

You must:

• Be 21 years or older (military exceptions may apply)
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Live or work in Onondaga or Madison County
• Have no disqualifying criminal history
• Demonstrate good moral character

 

Step 2: Complete Required Training

Before applying, you must complete:

• 16-hour classroom course
• 2-hour live-fire training
• Minimum passing score: 80%
• This is required for both pistol permits and semi-automatic rifle privileges

 

Step 3: Obtain Your Application Packet

Get your application from your county:

• Visit resources

 

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Requirements include:

• Completed PPB-3 application
• Character references (commonly 4; must meet county rules and may require notarization)
• Any county-specific paperwork
• Visit resources

 

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Schedule Appointment

• Submit your completed packet to your county licensing office
• Pay required fees (varies slightly by county)
• Schedule Review Appointment
• Visit resources

 

Step 6: Fingerprinting Process

Once you have your review appointment scheduled:

• Schedule fingerprinting through IdentoGO
• Used for:
•   NYS background check
•   FBI background check
• Visit resources

 

Step 7: Background Investigation

Your application will be reviewed and may include:

• Reference checks
• Criminal history review
• Possible interview (varies by county)

 

Step 8: Permit Decision & Types

If approved, depending on your application type you may receive:

• Concealed Carry License
• Possess on Premises License
• Visit resources

 

Step 9: Recertification & Maintenance

• Concealed Carry: Every 3 years
• Premises License: Every 5 years
• Visit resources

 

Don’t Delay — Get Started Today

• Complete your required training
• Prepare your paperwork carefully
• Submit early to avoid delays

Class sizes are limited—reserve your training spot today.

Pro Tip 

Pistol Permit Applicants who are organized, prepared, and complete their training early typically experience faster, smoother approvals.

 

COMMON MISTAKES

Avoiding these common issues can help prevent delays or denials in your application:

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Applications

• Missing signatures, unanswered questions, or errors on the PPB-3 form can delay processing
• Always review your application carefully before submitting

 

2. Choosing Ineligible Character References

• References may need to:
• Live in your county
• Know you for a required period of time
• Not be family members
• Incorrect references are one of the most common reasons for delays

 

3. Not Completing Training First

• Your 16+2 hour training certificate is required before applying
• Submitting without it will result in rejection or delay

 

4. Delays in Fingerprinting

• Waiting too long to schedule fingerprinting can slow your application
• Book your IdentoGO appointment as soon as instructed

 

5. Not Following County-Specific Instructions

• Onondaga and Madison Counties may have:
• Different forms
• Specific reference rules
• Additional steps
• Always follow your county’s exact instructions

 

6. Lack of Attention to Detail

• Small mistakes can create major delays
• Double-check:
• Names and addresses
• Dates
• Notarization (if required)

 

7. Waiting Too Long to Apply

• Processing times can be 3–6+ months
• Delaying your application delays your ability to legally possess or carry

 

8. Not Updating Your Permit After Changes

• You must file an amendment if you:
• Move
• Change counties
• Add or remove firearms