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Maryland Department of State Police

Qualified Handgun Instructor Certification

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What is a Qualified Handgun Instructor?

A Qualified Handgun instructor is  someone authorized to certify applicants for Maryland’s Handgun Qualification License (HQL) and Wear & Carry permit. The types of Instructor credentials are:

  • Certified Qualified Handgun Instructor (QHIC): You’ve been certified by the Maryland State Police and Correctional Training Commission (MPCTC) or a nationally recognized firearms organization.
  • Licensed Qualified Handgun Instructor (QHIL): You hold a license issued directly by the Maryland State Police. 

You can search for a list of Qualified Handgun Instructors online.

Note: If your course fails to meet state standards or you improperly certify students, your instructor status can be revoked. The types of instructor credentials

Who needs to apply

You need a certification If you want to legally teach and certify individuals applying for either:

  • Handgun Qualification License (HQL)  or
  • a Wear & Carry permit