All applications can now be completed online through the MIRCS portal:
https://mircsportal.chs.state.ma.us/mircs-portal/login.xhtml
Fees for New or Renewal LTC/FID cards can be paid online:
https://unipaygold.unibank.com/Default.aspx?customerid=507
Fees can also be paid at the Ashby Police Department in the form of check or money order made out to the Town of Ashby.
Information regarding Massachusetts Firearms Laws, a list of approved Basic Firearms Safety Instructors, the status of your application, or other frequently asked questions can be found at https://www.mass.gov/firearms-services.
Firearms Licensing
Administrative Assistant Angela Garhart
To be eligible for an LTC (new or renewal), an applicant must be deemed by the chief of police to be a suitable person. The chief considers factors such as the applicant’s reputation in the community, his/her involvement in criminal activities that did not lead to an arrest or conviction, association with known criminals, etc. In addition, the following statutory restrictions affect an applicant’s suitability:
- The applicant was convicted or adjudicated as a youthful offender anywhere for:
o Commission of a felony or misdemeanor with a sentence greater than two years
o Commission of a violent crime
o Violation of any firearms law punishable by imprisonment
o Violation of any narcotics law - The applicant has been committed to an institution for mental illness or for alcohol or substance abuse
- The applicant is subject to any protective order in Massachusetts or similar domestic violence stay-away order in another state
- The applicant is subject to an outstanding arrest warrant
- The applicant was convicted of a misdemeanor offense punishable by imprisonment for more than two years
- The applicant was convicted of a violent crime
- The applicant was convicted of a felony
- Pursuant to Chapter 140 section 129B of the Massachusetts General Laws, the Chief of Police may not deny an applicant’s request for an FID Card unless he/she is subject to one of the statutory disqualifications listed above.
Important information for applicants:
- Read each application question carefully before answering. A false or materially incomplete statement on a signed application is a serious offense and may be prosecuted. Be certain that you are careful, thorough, and accurate with your answers.
- Processing typically takes 40 days to complete. Permits cannot be “expedited”.
- Bring all required paperwork to the police station to be processed. If submitting your application online, be sure to include all documents requested. Anything that is missing from an online application must be submitted to the police station before processing can be completed, including payment.
- The fee is NOT refundable, even if your application is denied. Therefore, it is suggested that you read the firearms law (MGL Chapter 140, Sections 129 and 131) to see if you are eligible, before you file your application. • Processing of new and renewal applications includes a state and federal background check, a fingerprint-based background check, and a check with the Department of Mental Health.
Any improper use reported to our department may result in the permanent revocation of your License to Carry Firearms on the grounds of suitability. If you are denied or disqualified for any reason, you will be notified in writing of both the reason for denial and the appeal process.
- Completed and signed application
- Completed and signed Massachusetts LTC / FID Affidavit
- Application Fee (non-refundable):
o One-hundred dollars ($100)
o Free if applicant is over 70 years old AND license is a renewal
- Completed and signed application
- Application Fee (non-refundable):
o One-hundred-dollars ($100)
o Twenty-five dollars ($25) for applicants ages 15 to 17 - Massachusetts Basic Firearms Safety Certificate or Hunter Safety Certificate (valid only for FID)
- Massachusetts Driver’s License or Mass ID with current address. FID applicants under the age of 18 must provide Minor Consent Form, signed by parent or guardian.
- In-person appointment to include fingerprinting and an interview. Applicants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Massachusetts law requires that you report a change of address within 30 days of moving. Report an address or name change through the MIRCS Portal: https://mircsportal.chs.state.ma.us/mircs-portal/login.xhtml.
In accordance with MGL Ch. 140, Sec. 131P (a) All first-time firearm license applicants must successfully complete an MA Certified Firearms Safety Course or a Basic Hunter Education Course and submit a certificate of completion with their firearms license application.
A FID card for Chemical Spray is not required unless the applicant is under the age of 18.
Courses are taught by independent instructors certified by the Mass. Department of State Police and are usually a 1-day course. Taking a firearms safety course is your best option if you are simply trying to fulfill the training requirement to apply for a Mass firearms license.
Courses are administered by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife and are taught throughout the state by certified volunteer instructors. The Basic Hunter Education course includes recommended performance guidelines for all novice hunters. People interested in obtaining a hunting license as well as applying for an FID, should take this course.
Licenses will be issued for the following reasons, and restrictions will apply in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140 Sections 129B and 131.
Licenses to carry are subject to the following restrictions relative to the possession, use, or carrying of firearms as the Licensing Authority deems proper.
1. No Restriction: Basic Safety Course Certificate plus proof of completion of an “Advanced Gun Course.”
2. Restricted – For Target, Hunting, Sporting, Collecting, and Re-enactment: Basic Safety Course Certificate