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1. How do I apply for a permit to carry weapons?

• Must be 21 and a resident of Iowa;
• An Application for Iowa Permit to Carry must be filled out. This can be found on our site.
• TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:
  • Handgun safety training course utilizing an instructor certified by a state law enforcement agency;
  • Handgun safety training course utilizing an instructor certified by the National Rifle Association;
  • Completion of a hunter education program approved by the Natural Resource Commission, if handgun safety training is noted on the certificate of completion;
  • Armed forces small arms training (for those released or retired from Active Duty) - requires documentation of honorable discharge OR general discharge under honorable conditions (DD-214, DD-256, NGB-22, or similar);
  • Armed forces small arms training (for those on Active Duty) - requires certificate of completion of basic training or similar;
  • Handgun safety training course for security guards, investigators, or special deputies, if such course has been approved by the Iowa Department of Public Safety.
  • TRAINING EXEMPTION - Documentation that applicant holds or held an Iowa Permit to Carry Weapons issued on or after 01/01/2011;
• Applicant must apply in county you reside in;
• Applicant must have driver’s license or ID with applicant’s current address on it;
• $50.00 Payment must be made at time of application;
• There is an approximate 2 week waiting period;
• Permit is good for 5 years.
• This is a uniform card that will be issued by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. This card will be mailed directly to the mailing address provided by the applicant.

2. How do I apply for a permit to acquire a pistol or revolver?

• Must be 21 and a resident of Iowa;
• An application for Iowa permit to acquire a pistol or revolver must be completed;
• There is no training required;
• Applicant must apply in county you reside in;
• $ 25.00 Payment must be made at time of application;
• Applicant must have driver’s license or ID with applicant’s current address on it;
• There is an approximate 2 week waiting period;
• Permit is good for 5 years.
• This is a uniform card that will be issued by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. This card will be mailed directly to the mailing address provided by the applicant.