An original Connecticut State Pistol Permit expires five years after it becomes effective, and a renewed permit expires five years after the prior permit's expiration date, as specified in CGS 29-30.[1] Understanding the renewal timeline and process is essential to maintaining uninterrupted carry authorization.
Renewal Notice
DESPP sends a renewal notice to the permit holder by first-class mail or electronic mail not less than 90 days before the permit's expiration date.[1] Permit holders should ensure their address on file with DESPP is current to receive this notice. Failure to receive the notice does not relieve the holder of the obligation to renew on time.
Renewal Window
The issuing authority sends a renewal notice at least 90 days before expiration, and DESPP allows renewal up to 90 days after expiration.[1] This means permit holders have a 90-day grace period after expiration during which they may still renew. Under CGS 29-30, the permit remains valid for 90 days after expiration unless it has been revoked or revocation is pending.
It is important to understand the distinction between these two timeframes:
- Renewal fee period. CGS 29-30 applies the $70 renewal fee to renewals requested from 31 days before through 31 days after expiration.
- 90-day legal validity period. The permit remains valid for 90 days after expiration under CGS 29-30 unless it has been revoked or revocation is pending.
DESPP allows renewal during the 90-day period after expiration. Permit holders who have not renewed should submit their renewal before that period ends.
Renewal Methods
DESPP offers multiple methods for renewing a State Pistol Permit:[2]
Online Renewal
Permit holders may renew online through the DESPP/SLFU online portal. Online renewal is available before the permit expires if no legal name change has occurred. After expiration, renewal must be mailed.
Renewal by Mail
Permit holders may submit a renewal application by mail to SLFU. Applicants with a legal name change must mail their renewal application with the name change documentation.
Name Changes
DESPP accepts renewal applications by mail or online and does not offer in-person renewals. A holder with a legal name change must mail the renewal application with the name change documentation.[2]
Renewal Fee
The renewal fee is $70.00 for each state permit renewal.[1] Payment methods accepted vary between online and mailed renewals.
Renewal Background Check
DESPP must investigate each applicant for renewal of a state permit to ensure eligibility under state law. If new disqualifying information is discovered during the renewal investigation, renewal may be denied. DESPP must revoke the permit upon an event that would disqualify the holder from being issued it.[2]
What Happens if the Permit Expires
DESPP will not renew a permit that expired more than 90 days ago.[3] After the permit and 90-day grace period expire, carrying a pistol or revolver upon one's person without a permit violates CGS 29-35 unless an exception in that section applies. A violation of that permit requirement is a Class D felony.[4]
Eligibility Certificate Renewals
Handgun Eligibility Certificates and Long Gun Eligibility Certificates also expire every 5 years and follow a similar renewal process through DESPP/SLFU. The renewal fee for each eligibility certificate is $35.00.[5]
Address Change Requirement
Permit holders who move must notify the issuing authority within two business days of the address change. This can be done through the DESPP online portal or by mail.[2] Keeping address information current is important for receiving the 90-day renewal notice.
Lost or Stolen Permit Replacement
If a permit is lost or stolen, the holder should file a police report and then contact SLFU at (860) 685-8494 to report the loss or theft. A replacement is requested by completing form DPS-900-C-1 and mailing it with the processing fee. The replacement fee is $5.00.[2]
See also: Connecticut Two-Step Pistol Permit: Local to State