Looking to apply for a Suffolk County pistol permit or obtain your Suffolk NY CCW (concealed carry license)? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process as required by the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD). Updated for 2024–2025, this resource ensures you’re compliant with New York State and local laws.
📍 Who Handles Pistol Permits in Suffolk County, NY?
There are two pistol licensing authorities in Suffolk County:
- Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) — Serves residents of:
Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown - Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office — Serves residents of:
East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Southampton, and Southold
📝 This guide covers the application process through the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD).
✅ Step-by-Step Guide: Suffolk County Pistol Permit Application
1. ✔️ Determine Your Eligibility
To qualify for a Suffolk County pistol license, you must:
- Be 21 years of age or older
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Be a full-time resident of Suffolk County
- Have no felony convictions
- Be of good moral character
- Not be under an Order of Protection or a Prohibited Person
2. 📅 Download the Suffolk County Pistol Permit Application Packet
You must download and complete the following:
- Pistol License Application (PDCS-4406n)
- Detailed Application Instructions (PDCS-4406-2i)
- Guide to Obtaining a Suffolk County Pistol License (PDCS-4016a)
3. 🎯 Complete the NYS 18-Hour Firearm Safety Training Course
To apply for a Suffolk County NY pistol license, you must complete the NYS-mandated firearm safety training course, as required under the Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA).
🔹 Training Requirements:
- 16 hours of classroom instruction
- 2 hours of live-fire range time
- Must be completed before submitting your application
🎓 Register for the NY SAFE 18-Hour Training Course Here
This certified course meets all NYS and Suffolk County requirements for both premises and concealed carry licenses.
4. 🧳️ Prepare Your Suffolk County Pistol License Application Packet
Your complete application must include:
- ✅ Completed and signed application (PDCS-4406n)
- ✅ Certificate of firearm safety training (18-hour course)
- ✅ Four (4) notarized character references (non-family, Suffolk County residents)
- ✅ Two (2) passport-style photographs (2″ x 2″)
- ✅ Proof of Suffolk County residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- ✅ Copy of driver’s license or state ID
- ✅ Notarized mental health affidavit
- ✅ Completed instruction checklist (PDCS-4406-2i)
5. 📍 Submit Your Application in Person
Applications cam be submitted in person:
Suffolk County Police Department – Pistol Licensing Bureau
30 Yaphank Avenue, Yaphank, NY 11980
📞 (631) 852-6311
6. 📝 Attend the Interview and Fingerprinting
At your scheduled appointment:
- 🔹 You’ll be interviewed by SCPD officials
- 🔹 Your fingerprints and photo will be taken on-site
- 🔹 Pay the fingerprinting fee ($88.25) via money order or certified check payable to the Suffolk County Police Department
7. ⏳ Background Check and Final Review
Your application undergoes a full background investigation by the SCPD.
🗖️ Processing can take up to 6 months, depending on caseload and investigation time.
If approved, you’ll receive your Premises License and may legally purchase and store handguns at your residence or place of business.
🔄 Upgrading to a Suffolk NY CCW (Concealed Carry License)
Once issued a Premises License, you may apply to amend your license to concealed carry (CCW).
✅ As of 2022 (NYSRPA v. Bruen Supreme Court decision), applicants are no longer required to demonstrate “proper cause” to obtain a concealed carry license.
To upgrade:
- Submit a formal amendment request to SCPD in person
- Include your Premises License and Training Certificate
- Submit any additional documents requested by SCPD
- Pay the amendment processing fee
🔁 Suffolk County Pistol License Renewals (NOT Recertification)
Suffolk County does not participate in the NYS online recertification system.
All Suffolk County licenses must be renewed directly with the SCPD:
- 🔁 Premises Licenses: Renew every 5 years
- 🔁 Carry Concealed Licenses (CCW): Renew every 3 years
🗕️ Renewal notices are mailed, but it’s your responsibility to stay current.
📋 Quick Suffolk County Pistol Permit Checklist
✅ Meet eligibility requirements
✅ Download and complete official SCPD forms
✅ Take the NYS 18-hour firearm safety course
✅ Gather character references and ID documentation
✅ Schedule in-person submission with SCPD
✅ Attend interview and on-site fingerprinting
✅ Wait for background check and license approval
✅ Renew every 3 or 5 years, depending on license type
📩 Need help registering for the 18-hour NY pistol permit course? Have questions about applying for your Suffolk NY CCW license? Contact NY SAFE today for expert guidance and training support.
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