Maryland Gun Laws 2026: What You Need to Know

Every year, thousands of people die from firearms. Some are intentional, like acts of violence or mass shootings, and others are accidental. No matter the reason, the state of Maryland is fighting against it through strict gun laws.

Maryland handgun laws change regularly. In this blog, we’ve outlined the current 2026 guidelines and upcoming changes. Keep reading to learn more.

What is the Firearms Safety Act in Maryland?

The Firearms Safety Act is a major law that reformed gun laws in the state. It also details penalties, bans, and other controls to reduce gun violence. We outline key elements of the gun laws below:

• Mandatory background checks and permits
• Certain firearms sold in Maryland must comply with state safety device requirements
• Certain assault weapons are prohibited
• Selling detachable magazines with more than 10 rounds is prohibited
• Strict ghost gun regulations
• Age 21 or over restriction for regulated firearms, with some exceptions
• Restricted in some locations, including schools, certain college buildings, bars and restaurants licensed for on-site alcohol or cannabis consumption, and certain government buildings or public infrastructure areas

Next, we’ll outline some of the key changes in 2026.

2026 changes to Maryland gun laws

Find more about the key components of Maryland firearm law changes below:

Mandated dealer reporting

A key update for 2026 is mandated dealer reporting. Beginning October 1, 2026, licensed firearms dealers must notify the Secretary of State Police within 24 hours after first having knowledge of certain burglaries, attempted burglaries, robberies, or thefts involving firearms or ammunition.

Auto sears, switches, and convertible pistols

Auto sears, commonly called Glock switches, are generally treated as machine guns under federal law and are prohibited under Maryland law except in limited circumstances. In 2026, Maryland enacted SB 334, which goes further by (on or after January 1, 2027) restricting the sale and transfer of certain handguns that lawmakers determined can be readily converted into fully automatic firearms using those devices.

Maryland gun law FAQs

Many people have questions about Maryland’s gun laws. We’ve answered the most common questions below:

What are the gun licensing requirements?

Many applicants must complete at least four hours of training and fingerprinting to obtain a handgun qualification license, although exemptions exist. Most individuals seeking wear-and-carry permits must complete 16 hours of training, fingerprinting, and live-fire practice.

Dealers must be licensed to sell firearms in Maryland. All regulated firearm purchases must be processed through a licensed dealer or designated law enforcement agency.

New residents generally must register all regulated firearms, including handguns, within 90 days of establishing Maryland residency.

Can you carry concealed in Maryland?

Concealed carry in Maryland is only allowed with a permit. A good and substantial reason is not required for a concealed carry permit. This means people can get permits without showing a special reason if they meet the statutory requirements. Wear-and-carry permits require the above qualifications before being issued.

Who is prohibited from owning firearms?

The state of Maryland prohibits many people from possessing firearms, including:

• Convicted felons
• Some drug offenders
• People with domestic violence misdemeanors
• Certain individuals who have been involuntarily committed or otherwise become disqualified under Maryland mental health provisions
• People under the age of 21 from possessing regulated firearms, with some exceptions
• People found incompetent to stand trial

The state also has several places where it is illegal to possess a firearm. Even accidentally having it can result in charges.

Can I have a firearm in my vehicle?

If someone isn’t a prohibited person, yes, they may transport a firearm in a vehicle under circumstances permitted by Maryland law. However, there are guidelines that people must follow. Handguns must be unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or enclosed holster for those without permits. If someone does not have a wear-and-carry permit, handgun transportation is generally limited to situations specifically authorized by Maryland law, such as traveling to or from a shooting range, hunting location, firearms training course, repair shop, or residence.

What are the penalties for illegal possession of a gun?

Illegal gun possession in Maryland comes with serious penalties. This is especially true for repeat offenders. Penalties vary depending on the specific firearm offense and the individual’s criminal history.

Repeat offenders see increasingly stricter consequences, depending on the circumstances. Each case is unique, so it’s important to speak to a defense attorney about the possible punishments for your specific situation. In general, penalties may include:

• For illegal wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun, a second offense may carry one to ten years of jail time, often with a one-year mandatory sentence
• For that same offense, third or subsequent offenses typically carry a three-year mandatory sentence and can carry up to ten years
• Certain firearm offenses committed on school property may carry enhanced penalties

Sometimes people forget they have a gun on them or in their vehicle. These situations can still lead to charges and possible penalties.

Individuals using guns for violence may face mandatory imprisonment. This often increases for repeat offenders. If you were charged with illegal gun possession, contact a criminal defense attorney to learn more about your legal options.

Do I need an attorney for illegal gun possession charges in Maryland?

Gun laws in Maryland often come with mandatory jail time, so it’s a good idea to speak to a defense attorney. They help clients understand the charges and possible outcomes. They also craft defense strategies to try to reduce the punishments. Common defense strategies may include:

• Challenging searches
• Disputing possession of the gun
• Exceptions to statutes
• Challenging the firearm classification

An experienced defense attorney helps their clients to form the most appropriate strategy for their unique situation.

Contact Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, for a consultation

Gun laws in Maryland are strict and constantly changing. Sometimes people find themselves breaking these laws without even realizing they have been updated. When this happens, the accused do not have to navigate the legal process alone.

If you’ve been charged with illegal gun possession, Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, wants to help. Contact the office today to request a consultation to learn more about your legal options.