Q.
1. What is the MD HQL?
A Maryland HQL is generally required to purchase, rent or receive a handgun in Maryland unless you qualify for an exemption. You do not need an HQL simply to possess a handgun you already legally own.
Our 4-hour Basic Pistol 1 course is the course for individuals seeking the required HQL training.
Q.
2. Do firearm licenses/Concealed Carry permits have to be recertified?
Yes. Expiration and renewal requirements vary by jurisdiction.
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Maryland HQL: Valid for 10 years.
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Maryland Wear & Carry: Initially valid for approximately 2 years; renewals extend for 3 years.
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DC Concealed Carry: Valid for 2 years.
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Other States/Multi States: Valid time frame varies.
Be sure to renew 90 days before your credential expires. Additional training or a new application may be required.
Q.
3. How long are your courses?
Course lengths vary depending on the training selected:
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MD & DC Concealed Carry: 16 hours of classroom training plus applicable range requirements.
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Basic Pistol / MD HQL: 4 hours.
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Basic Pistol 2 & Ladies-Only: 4 hours each.
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Gun Cleaning: Approximately 1 hour.
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R.A.D.: Each session is 4-hours.
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CPR/AED, First Aid, Stop the Bleed & Emergency Preparedness: Duration varies by course.
Please review the individual course description for specific requirements.
Q.
4. Is there live shooting during your courses?
Yes! Live-fire training is included in many of our firearms courses, including Basic Pistol, Concealed Carry and private training sessions.
Range activities, ammunition requirements and equipment needs vary by course. Please review your course description before registering.
Q.
5. Can I get a firearm license or permit in another state?
Yes. Some states offer concealed carry permits to eligible nonresidents.
Each state has its own application process, training requirements, fees and reciprocity agreements. Holding a permit from one state does not automatically authorize you to carry in another.
We recommend reviewing the requirements of the state where you plan to apply or carry.
Q.
6. How can I register for a class?
Registration is easy!
Visit our homepage, select Courses from the main menu and choose the training that best fits your needs.
Review the course details, available dates and our Training Policies before completing registration.
Q.
7. Does the class cost the same if I bring my own ammo, firearm and/or protective gear?
Yes. Standard course pricing remains the same unless a specific course or private training package states otherwise.
Please do not bring your personal firearm without prior authorization from the lead instructor.
Review our Training Policies for additional information about equipment, ammunition and approved personal firearms.
Q.
8. Is there 1 Concealed license for the DMV area?
No. Maryland, Washington, DC and Virginia have separate concealed carry laws and licensing requirements.
Maryland and DC require separate permits. You may complete qualifying training for both jurisdictions through our combined MD/DC Concealed Carry course, but each jurisdiction has its own application process and fees.
Always verify the laws of any state or jurisdiction where you intend to carry.
*Maryland and DC do not recognize concealed carry permits issued by other jurisdictions.
Q.
9. Are men allowed to attend classes?
Absolutely! Pretty Shooters Firearms welcomes both men and women to our training programs.
Unless a course is specifically advertised as women-only, everyone who meets the course eligibility requirements is welcome.
Q.
10. Can children attend courses?
Yes! We offer age-appropriate firearms safety education and training opportunities for youth ages 6–17.
A parent or legal guardian must provide consent, complete the required waivers and be present during applicable training activities.
Youth participation in live-fire activities is subject to instructor approval, range requirements and applicable laws. Safety and readiness always come first.
Q.
11. Do I teach Private lessons?
Yes! We offer personalized one-on-one and semi-private firearms instruction for individuals who prefer a private setting or want additional support developing their skills and confidence.
Private sessions are limited and subject to availability.
To book, visit our website, select Courses, and choose One-on-One Training.
For additional questions, email prettyshootersfirearms@gmail.com
Q.
12. Where am I located?
Pretty Shooters Firearms offers training primarily in the District Heights, Maryland area.
Our live-fire qualifications are generally conducted at a local shooting range in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Training locations may vary depending on the course, private session or special event.
Please review your course details for the specific location before registering.
Q.
13. Do I have to bring my own firearm to class?
No! Firearms are provided for applicable training courses.
Please do not bring your personal firearm without prior approval from the lead instructor.
Students enrolled in designated courses, including Basic Pistol 2, private lessons and firearm cleaning classes, may be permitted to bring their own firearms with authorization.
Please review our Training Policies for complete details.
Q.
14. Do I need a permit or experience before attending class?
No! Most of our beginner firearms courses do not require previous experience or an existing permit.
Whether you're new to firearms, looking to build confidence, or preparing to apply for a concealed carry permit, we offer training options for different experience levels.
Certain advanced courses may have prerequisites. Please review the individual course description before registering.
Q.
15. How long does it take to receive my firearm license?
Processing times vary by state and the type of license or permit requested.
Maryland Wear & Carry applications may take up to 90 days to process. DC concealed carry applications may also take approximately 90 days, depending on the circumstances.
Pretty Shooters Firearms provides the required training and applicable documentation, but all licensing decisions and processing timelines are determined by the issuing authorities.
For application updates, please contact the appropriate licensing agency directly.
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16. What is the dress code for live shooting classes?
For your safety and comfort, please dress appropriately for the shooting range.
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Shoes: Closed-toe shoes are required. No sandals, Crocs, or open-toe footwear.
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Clothing: Wear a comfortable shirt that covers your shoulders and upper chest. Avoid low-cut tops, spaghetti straps and crop tops.
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Hair: Long hair should be secured away from your face.
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Eyewear: Bring your prescription glasses if needed. Appropriate eye and ear protection must be worn during live-fire training.
Hot shell casings can cause burns, so proper clothing is important. Safety is always our priority!
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17. What do the new law changes mean for people wanting Maryland Wear & Carry License?
Maryland no longer requires applicants to provide a "Good and Substantial Reason" to apply for a Wear & Carry Permit.
However, applicants must still meet Maryland's eligibility requirements, complete approved firearms training (unless exempt), obtain fingerprints, and submit the required application and documentation.
Completing training does not guarantee permit approval. All decisions are made by the Maryland State Police.
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18. What’s the best course for you?
The best course depends on your experience, comfort level, and training goals.
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New to firearms? Basic Pistol 1 is a great starting point for beginners and Maryland HQL applicants.
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Need a refresher? Basic Pistol 1 or 2 training can help rebuild your confidence and skills.
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Interested in concealed carry? Our Maryland and DC Concealed Carry courses provide the required training for eligible applicants.
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Want personalized instruction? Private one-on-one sessions allow training tailored to your individual needs.
Not sure where to start? Contact Pretty Shooters Firearms via email, and we'll help you select the course that best fits your goals.
Q.
19. Do you offer CPR, First Aid, and Stop the Bleed training?
Yes! Pretty Shooters Firearms offers CPR/AED, First Aid, and Stop the Bleed training for individuals, families, businesses and organizations.
Whether you're seeking certification, workplace training, or simply want to be better prepared for an emergency, we offer training options to fit your needs.
Visit our Courses page to explore available classes and registration options.
Q.
20. Do my course completion papers have an expiration date?
Yes. From the date that I sign your certificate and/or course papers they have a time frame in
which you must use them to apply to the proper jurisdiction.
MD HQL- 3 years
MD CCW- 2 years
DC CCW- 1 year
Multi states vary, but the most popular ones give you a year to submit your full application after class.
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21. Do you offer safety assessments and emergency preparedness consulting?
Yes! In addition to training, Pretty Shooters Firearms provides safety and preparedness consulting services to help individuals and organizations become better prepared.
Services may include safety assessments, emergency action planning, preparedness education and customized safety recommendations.
Our approach is guided by the Pretty Shooters Method — Building Confidence Through Preparedness, centered on our PREPARE framework.
Contact us to discuss your needs and available consulting services.