You have to go through a process that includes passing a background check when purchasing a handgun legally in the United States. However, a bit more involvement is required if you want the ability to carry your new handgun in a concealed fashion. Known as a concealed carry, this permit gives you the legal right to carry your handgun in public on your body or in close proximity but in a hidden, or concealed, manner. Although there are no federal requirements, concealed carry permits may be issued to you according to qualifications outlined by your state of residence. Use this guide to prepare yourself for the process of applying for a concealed carry permit.

Research State Qualifications

First and foremost, you need to check your current state of residence's laws regarding the concealed carry permit. This is especially important since some states do not require an actual approved permit to conceal carry a firearm. The states that do not require a concealed carry permit include Alaska, Arizona, Kansas, Maine, Vermont, and Wyoming. States such as California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island are more restrictive on approving concealed carry permits.

Of course, gun laws and regulations change periodically, so be sure to check your local government before beginning the application process.

Train to Handle Firearms

Before you are legally permitted to conceal carry a handgun in public, you should familiarize yourself with firearm basics. Educating yourself on the proper way to carry the firearm on your body, store it in your vehicle or bag, and clean the weapon is imperative for keeping you and others safe.

Always treat the firearm like it is loaded and ready to shoot. You may have checked, double checked, and triple checked, but you should still assume the gun is loaded. Also, never hand someone a loaded handgun. Safely unload the gun before handing it to another person.

Make sure the muzzle is always pointed in a safe direction, so it should never face yourself, another human, an animal, etc.

Do not place your finger on the trigger unless you are ready to fire. When carrying a handgun, rest your fingers on the index point, which is the area above the trigger designed for resting your fingers when carrying a pistol.

Familiarize yourself on your specific handgun's safety mechanism, as well. Safeties built into the handgun's trigger, hammer, or grip are especially dangerous to inexperienced users, so consult a professional to learn how the proper operation of these designs.

Cleaning and caring for your handgun are also important elements to consider when owning a gun. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning your gun after each use. Wear safety goggles while cleaning your gun since springs and other components may launch and dislodge from the firearm during disassembly.

Certain guns may require you to pull the trigger to disassemble, but you still must check and clear the chamber beforehand to prevent negligent discharge. Conducting these steps in the correct order could mean the difference between life and death. To learn how to clean your handgun the correct way, contact the manufacturer.

Train to Fire

Before you are able to safely carry a handgun, you must train to safely and correctly fire your weapon.

During these classes, licensed and experienced teachers will offer education on the following:

• Basic gun handling
• Different types of handguns
• Types of ammunition and proper use
• Basics of shooting
• Gun cleaning and maintenance
• Maintaining shooting skills

Even if you feel you have experience in handling, carrying, shooting, and maintaining firearms, a pistol training class may very likely be required by your state before applying for your concealed carry permit.