HQL Training Class 23 AUGUST 2026 10A-2P

The Engage Armament HQL course is designed to provide those persons who do not fall within any of the HQL or training exemptions an efficient way to obtain their required HQL training in order to purchase a handgun. We strive to impart a basic working knowledge of proper firearm usage and safety but also Maryland firearm regulations. Classes are held here at our retail location in Rockville Maryland.

We attempt to have fingerprinting done on site during every class, completed by ACIC for $65, but we cannot always provide this option.

Registration cutoff is 8PM the day before classes.

Unless otherwise exempt, as of October 1, 2013, a Maryland resident must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License before he/she may purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. Details on exemptions may be found below. YOU DO NOT NEED A HANDGUN QUALIFICATION LICENSE TO OWN A GUN YOU ALREADY HAVE. The Handgun Qualification License is only needed for purchasing, transferring, or renting a regulated firearm after October 1, 2013.

The following persons/transactions are EXEMPT from the HQL requirement. For the following four situations, the purchaser does NOT NEED TO POSSES AN HQL in order to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun.

(1) a licensed firearms manufacturer;

(2) a law enforcement officer or person who is retired in good standing from service with a law enforcement agency of the United States, the State, or a local law enforcement agency of the State;

(3) a member or retired member of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard; or

(4) a person purchasing, renting, or receiving an antique, curio, or relic firearm, as defined in federal law or in determinations published by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

MD PS §5–117.1

The following persons are REQUIRED TO GET AN HQL in order to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun, but the persons are EXEMPT FROM THE FOUR-HOUR TRAINING COURSE. A person that:

(1) has completed a certified firearms training course approved by the Secretary;

(2) has completed a course of instruction in competency and safety in the handling of firearms prescribed by the Department of Natural Resources under § 10–301.1 of the Natural Resources Article;

(3) is a qualified handgun instructor;

(4) is an honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the United States or the National Guard;

(5) is an employee of an armored car company and has a permit issued under Title 5, Subtitle 3 of the Public Safety Article; or

(6) lawfully owns a regulated firearm.

MD PS §5-117.1

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Engage Armament