Connecticut law requires any person purchasing a pistol or revolver to hold either a valid State Pistol Permit or a Handgun Eligibility Certificate. The Handgun Eligibility Certificate, governed by CGS 29-36f through 29-36i, is designed for individuals who want to purchase a handgun but do not need or want a carry permit.[1]
What the Certificate Authorizes
The Handgun Eligibility Certificate authorizes the holder to purchase pistols and revolvers and transport them directly between the place of purchase and the holder's residence or place of business.[2] It does not authorize concealed carry or carrying a handgun on one's person in public. For that, a State Pistol Permit is required.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants for a Handgun Eligibility Certificate must meet the following requirements under CGS 29-36f:[1]
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a legal resident of the United States
- Have no felony convictions
- Have no convictions for the 11 disqualifying misdemeanors specified in statute
- Not be subject to a protective or restraining order involving the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force
- Not have been discharged from custody within the preceding 20 years after being found not guilty of a crime by reason of mental disease or defect
- Not be confined in a hospital for persons with psychiatric disabilities
- Not be subject to a firearms seizure order
- Not be an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States
Required Firearms Safety Course
All applicants must successfully complete a handgun safety course approved by the Commissioner of DESPP. The course must consist of no less than the NRA's Basic Pistol Course and must include live-fire instruction using actual pistols or revolvers.[2]
Application Process
Unlike the State Pistol Permit, the Handgun Eligibility Certificate uses a single-step process. Applicants apply directly to the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) through the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU).[1]
The application requires:
- Completed application form prescribed by the Commissioner
- Full disclosure of criminal record and relevant mental health history
- Submission of fingerprints and photographs for state and national criminal history record checks
- Proof of completed firearms safety course
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency (birth certificate, U.S. passport, or green card)
- Government-issued photo identification
- Application fee of $35.00, payable to the Treasurer, State of Connecticut
Processing Timeline
The Commissioner has 90 days to approve or deny the application.[2] If denied, the applicant receives a written explanation of the reason for denial and may appeal to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners (BFPE) within 90 days of receiving the denial notice.[3]
Certificate Duration and Renewal
The Handgun Eligibility Certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance. The renewal fee is $35.00. DESPP sends a renewal notice by first-class mail or electronic mail at least 90 days before the expiration date.[2]
Certificate vs. Pistol Permit
Holders of a valid State Pistol Permit do not need a separate Handgun Eligibility Certificate. The State Pistol Permit satisfies all eligibility requirements for purchasing handguns and additionally authorizes concealed carry.[2] The Eligibility Certificate is a practical option for individuals who want to own a handgun for home defense but do not intend to carry outside the home.
See also: How to Get a Connecticut Long Gun Eligibility Certificate