Handgun Permits

Online Handgun Permit Forms (Complete all Three Forms)

Do not sign the application upon completion. All applications for pistol permits must be signed in front of Sheriff's Office personnel.

Information

Location and Hours of Operation

Application for a handgun permit takes place on the 2nd floor (main entrance) of the Sheriff’s Office Administration Building located at 120 West Third Street in downtown Winston-Salem.
Monday through Friday (excluding holidays)
8:30 - 10:30 am and 1:30 - 3:30 pm

Fees

Each permit is $5.00 (up to 6 permits per application) plus a $3.00 notary fee per application.

Method of Payment

Cash Only (division does not maintain funds to make change)

Number of Permits Allotment

Individuals may apply for up to 12 permits per calendar year and up to 6 permits on each application. An exception may be made in writing directly to the Sheriff for additional permits providing the Sheriff finds acceptable justification.

Application Requirements

  • Must apply in person.
  • Must be able to properly complete application process.
  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Must provide current/valid identification in the form of either a N.C. Driver's License or N.C. State Identification Card.
  • Must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • Must be a resident of Forsyth County for a minimum of 6 months.
  • Must provide proof of residency.
  • Must provide a list of previous addresses for the past 20 years.
  • Must be of good moral character.
  • Must not have any pending charges or unserved papers.
  • Must pass criminal history background check.
  • Must be eligible to own, posses or receive a firearm under the provisions of State or Federal Law. See N.C. Firearm Laws. Deniable offenses include but are not limited to:
    • All assault charges
    • Carry concealed weapons charges
    • Numerous DWI charges and any DWI within the past 3 years
    • Any felony conviction
    • Any drug conviction in the past 5 years
    • Any assault on law enforcement officer
    • Any delay or resist/obstruct charge

Processing Information

The processing time for a handgun permit is 7 business days (State law mandates up to 30 days). Criminal history information may result in a denial of an application. Letters of denial are sent to the applicant within the 7 business day time frame. Individuals receiving a denial of application letter may appeal the denial to the Chief District Court Judge.

Once application is approved, the permit will be kept on file for pickup for a period of 30 days from the application date. Thereafter, the permit expires. Applicant must provide proper identification when permit is picked up.

General Information

  • Permit applications are taken under oath and notarized. False or fictitious information provided during the application process may cause the applicant to be criminally charged.
  • Handgun permits are for the purpose of making a purchase of this type of weapon. The permit does not entitle the applicant to carry a concealed weapon.
  • Once the permit is issued to the applicant, the permit is valid for a period of 5 years.
  • Permit is not renewable or replaceable if lost or stolen.
  • Division does not provide application status over the phone.