Pistol Permits

State Constitutional Provision – Part 1, Article 2-a
“All persons have the right to keep and bear arms in defense of themselves, their families, their property, and the state.”

 Over the last several years the State of New Hampshire has made critical changes to the requirements regarding the applying for and the carrying of firearms by its citizens. In 2017, NH Senate Bill 12, repealed the requirement to acquire a license in order to carry a concealed handgun (pistol or revolver) altogether. It also changed the license period from four to five years, directed the New Hampshire State Police to enter into reciprocity agreements with other states/jurisdictions regarding the license to carry and allows a person, unless they are prohibited by State or Federal requirements, to carry a loaded, concealed handgun. 

As of January 2025, NH House Bills 1186 and 1336 went into effect. HB 1186 deals with privacy protections as they pertain to receipt codes when credit cards are used to purchase a weapon, and HB 1336 bans employers from prohibiting employees from storing handguns in locked vehicles on the employer’s property. 

If, however, a New Hampshire resident wishes to have a physical license issued, they must apply for a Concealed Weapons Permit through their local law enforcement agency. To this effect, if you are a full-time Meredith resident you must apply at Meredith Police Department (MPD) for a Concealed Weapons Permit. On top of the state required permit, the MPD also requires applicants to read and sign off on a Use of Force form, because it is important to understand your rights under NH Statute 627:4. This form must accompany the permit application. 

The New Hampshire State Police Permits and Licensing Unit is where non-residents must apply for a Concealed Weapons Permit. You can also find additional carry laws such as they pertain to reciprocity, permits for private security/detectives, explosives, denials, and additional contact information. 

Hunting licenses are entirely different than a Concealed Weapons Permit, and for any hunting/fishing licenses you must go through the New Hampshire Fish & Game Department.