A Guide to DE Permit to Purchase vs DE Concealed Carry
- Brass Banter
- Jun 15
- 3 min read
When it comes to firearms in Delaware, the rules can be a bit confusing. If you’re trying to figure out the difference between a Permit to Purchase and a Concealed Carry Permit, you’re not alone. These two permits sound like they could be secret agent code names, but they serve very different purposes. Let’s break down the essentials.
What Is a Delaware Permit to Purchase?
Think of the Permit to Purchase as your ticket to the gun store’s VIP lounge. This permit is required if you want to buy a handgun in Delaware. It’s not a free pass to stroll into a gun shop and walk out with a firearm like you’re picking up groceries. Instead, it’s a background check wrapped in paperwork.
How to Get One
Apply through your local police department or the Delaware State Police.
Provide fingerprints and a valid ID.
Pass a background check that looks for criminal records, mental health issues, and other disqualifiers.
Wait for the permit to be issued, which can take up to 30 days.
What It Allows
Purchase of handguns from licensed dealers or private sellers.
It does not allow you to carry the handgun in public.
For full instructions and the most up to date information visit https://dsp.delaware.gov/permit-to-purchase/
For Permit to Purchase Application Portal visit https://dsp.delaware.gov/p2p-applicant-portal/
Why It Matters
Without this permit, buying a handgun in Delaware is like trying to get into an exclusive club without an invitation. You’ll be politely turned away, and no amount of charm will change that.
What Is a Delaware Concealed Carry Permit?
Now, the Concealed Carry Permit is a different beast. This permit lets you carry a concealed handgun in public. It’s the legal equivalent of having a secret weapon in your back pocket—literally.
How to Get One
Be at least 21 years old.
Complete a firearms training course approved by the state.
Submit fingerprints and pass a thorough background check.
Provide references and a reason for carrying concealed
Apply through the Delaware State Police.
What It Allows
Carrying a concealed handgun in public places, with some exceptions.
It does allow you to buy a handgun without a Permit to Purchase.
For full instructions and the most up to date information visit: https://courts.delaware.gov/superior/weapons.aspx
Why Delaware Makes You Jump Through These Hoops
Delaware’s gun laws aim to balance the right to own firearms with public safety. The Permit to Purchase ensures that buyers are vetted before they get their hands on a gun. The Concealed Carry Permit adds a layer of responsibility for those who want to carry firearms in public.
If you think this sounds like a bureaucratic nightmare, you’re not wrong. But it’s better than the alternative: accidentally carrying a gun without a permit and getting arrested faster than you can say “oops.”
Practical Tips for Navigating the Process
Start early as Permit to Purchase and/or Concealed Carry Permit process can vary. Permit to Purchase can take a few days to a few weeks to obtain the Permit and Concealed Carry permit can take a month or months.
Keep copies of your paperwork. You never know when you’ll need proof.
Stay updated on laws. Gun laws change, and ignorance won’t save you.
Take the training seriously. It’s not just a hoop to jump through; it teaches you how to handle firearms safely.
Use official resources. For the latest info, visit the Delaware State Police website: Delaware State Police Firearms Services.
Understanding the difference between the Delaware Permit to Purchase and the Concealed Carry Permit is crucial for anyone interested in firearms in the state. One lets you buy a handgun, the other lets you carry it concealed. Both require patience, paperwork, and a bit of common sense.
If you’re serious about owning or carrying a handgun in Delaware, start with the right permit. It’s the best way to keep yourself out of trouble and your gun in your hands legally.
Comments