Pistol Licenses

The Rockland County Clerk accepts applications for and issues New York State Pistol Licenses under the direction of the Rockland County Court Justices. The Rockland County Clerk is also responsible for the issuance of New York State Dealer and Gunsmith licenses.

NOTICE: The Pistol License Application procedures have recently changed. Please see "How do I apply for a pistol license" FAQ item below for the new procedure.
 
Pistol Licenses should be recertified every five years with the NYS Police.  To recertify and "opt-out" (Receive an exemption from Public Record requests), log on to the NYS Police website:   https://firearms.troopers.ny.gov/pprecert/welcome.faces

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the requirements to obtain a pistol license?

The requirements to obtain a pistol license in Rockland County are as follows:

  1. You must reside in Rockland County, NY.
  2. You must be at least 21 years of age at the time of application.
  3. You must complete a firearms safety course. The approved course is given by the Rockland County Sheriff's Office.
  4. You must provide notarized letters from household members stating that they do not object to your possession of a pistol license.
  5. If you are NOT a U.S. citizen, you must submit a copy of your Alien Registration card.
For what purposes can I obtain a pistol license?

You can obtain a pistol license for the purposes of "Sportsman/Residence", which includes:

  • Target Shooting
  • Hunting
  • Fishing
  • Hiking and camping
  • Possess at residence

 Note to current and retired Police Officers: see County Clerk Staff for further information in this regard. 

How do I apply for a pistol license?

Using the links below, DOWNLOAD/PRINT THE INSTRUCTIONS, OPT-OUT, DISCLOSURE AND CONSENT forms. Download and complete the PDF-Fillable APPLICATION ONLINE.

You will pay the $150 application fee once you submit the completed application to the County Clerk's Office.

Illegible, incomplete, soiled &/or folded applications will be rejected upon submission.

I am a Police Officer, what do I need to apply for a pistol license?

If you are an active or retired police officer, you must attach a letter or “Certificate of Service” from your police department to your application. The letter must be on ORIGINAL LETTERHEAD and include duration of employment, and statements about whether you are in good standing, if there are any department charges against you, and whether any weapons have ever been removed from your possession.

Please check with County Clerk staff about application fees.

How long is the pistol license valid?
There is no expiration date on New York State pistol licenses. However, the State of New York has recently started a Recertification Program for all pistol license holders.  If you are up for recertification, you will receive a letter by mail.  Please make sure that your address is updated with our office if it has changed.
Do the character references on my application have to reside in Rockland County?
Yes, All references must be Rockland County residents and must have known you for at least 2 years. Relatives related to you by blood or marriage cannot be used as references. In the case of married couples who are unrelated to you, both the husband or wife can be used as references.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get a pistol license?
U.S. citizenship is not required. However, you must submit a copy of your green card with your application.
What if I've been arrested or convicted of a crime in the past?
You must submit a certified copy of disposition.
How do I add or remove pistols from my license or change my personal information (ie: address, telephone number)?

Fill out the Pistol License Amendment form (below). The form, needs to be completed online and printed (or typed), and must be submitted to our office with the appropriate fee. The cost is $5 per change (ie: two added pistols will be $10)

Pistol License Amendment Form


Have Questions?

Contact us at:

Pistol License Office
Rockland County Clerk's Office

1 South Main Street, Suite 100 (located in the Courthouse in the rear parking lot of 11 New Hempstead Road)
New City, New York 10956

Phone: (845) 638-5320
Email: rocklandcountyclerk@co.rockland.ny.us

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.