New Jersey Gun Permit Laws: What Has Changed Recently

New Jersey’s gun laws have changed in recent years. Following the Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen ruling, the state removed the “justifiable need” requirement for carry permits. Learn more from the weapons charges lawyers at Lace Law.

Permit to Carry (PCH) Changes

The Permit to Carry process includes several new rules for all applicants, in addition to standard background checks and references. Key updates are:

• In-person interview with local police
• Mandatory live-fire training and qualification
• Higher application and processing fees

Open Carry Ban

It remains illegal to carry a handgun openly in New Jersey. Even with a Permit to Carry, the firearm must always be concealed in public. Exposing a weapon in public may result in criminal charges, regardless of permit status. This law is unchanged and strictly enforced.

Sensitive Places Ban

More locations now prohibit firearms, even for those with a valid permit. Among the newly added sensitive places are:

• Bars, restaurants serving alcohol, and casinos
• Public parks, beaches, and recreation areas
• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Polling places and government buildings
• Public transportation hubs
• Entertainment venues and stadiums

Fees and Insurance

Permit costs have climbed substantially under the new rules. The costs for various permits and qualifiers are as follows:

• New Jersey Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (FPIC): $50.00
• Per Handgun Permit: $25.00
• Fingerprinting Fee: $54.00
• Carry Permit: $150.00
• Training Qualification Course Fee: $100 - $250 or more (varies by instructor)
• NICS Background Check: $15.00 for long guns or $16.00 per pistol

The combined cost of fees, training, ammunition, and other qualifications can run well into the hundreds of dollars before a permit is even issued.

Permit Data Reporting

State agencies now collect and report detailed data on permit applications, approvals, and denials. These agencies use the information to track how the new rules apply across counties and give the public a clearer picture of how often permits are granted or denied in each part of New Jersey.

Wait Times and Limits

Recently, wait times for Firearms Purchaser Identification Cards and Permits to Purchase a Handgun have increased. Local police have up to 30 days for background checks, but delays are common in busy areas such as Atlantic County.

Disqualification Factors

Several conditions can prevent someone from getting or keeping a firearms permit in New Jersey. State law spells out the disqualifiers, and officials review them during every application:

• Domestic violence restraining orders
• Mental health commitments
• Drug dependency issues
• Certain misdemeanor convictions
• Pending criminal charges

New Jersey does not recognize permits from other states, so only New Jersey-issued permits remain valid here.

Speak to an Atlantic County Firearms and Weapons Charges Attorney

Are you concerned about how these new gun law changes could affect your rights or future? Take control of your situation, call LACE Law at (609) 225-4065 or contact us online now. Schedule your free 30-minute consultation with an experienced Atlantic County firearms and weapons charges lawyer and get the tailored legal guidance you need to protect yourself and your interests.