Maryland Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following qualifies a person for exemption from the Handgun Qualification License requirement?

1. Prior military service

2. Current law enforcement officers

3. Completion of a firearms safety training course

4. B and C

The correct answer is: B and C

The correct answer encompasses both current law enforcement officers and those who have completed a firearms safety training course. This is important because Maryland has specific provisions that exempt these two groups from needing a Handgun Qualification License (HQL). Current law enforcement officers are exempt due to their extensive training and ongoing responsibilities related to firearms. Their professional experience and the requirement to carry a handgun as part of their job make them capable of safely handling firearms without needing to go through the standard HQL process. Similarly, individuals who have completed an approved firearms safety training course are considered knowledgeable in handling firearms safely and responsibly. This training ensures that they have a foundational understanding of firearms laws and safety practices, which is why they may be deemed qualified to bypass the HQL requirement. This exemption reflects the state’s acknowledgment of existing training and expertise in firearms handling among these groups, allowing them to carry handguns without going through the additional licensing process.