Delaware State Police to Launch New Permit to Purchase Program
The Delaware State Police has announced the upcoming launch of its Permit to Purchase Program through the State Bureau of Identification. The program will open for registration in the coming weeks.
Beginning November 16, 2025, Delaware law will require a handgun qualified purchaser permit for all handgun purchases or transfers in the state. The State Bureau of Identification within the Delaware State Police will issue these permits.
Delaware residents planning to purchase handguns are encouraged to visit the Permit to Purchase website. The site provides information about training requirements and documentation needed under the new law. Officials urge individuals to review the process before the November deadline to ensure they meet all criteria.
The registration link remains temporarily inactive. However, the webpage offers a complete program overview and will be activated once the online application portal becomes operational.
Application Requirements
To obtain a handgun qualified purchaser permit, applicants must complete several steps. They must finish a firearms safety course with an approved instructor and obtain fingerprints and a photograph through an IdentoGO appointment. A background check conducted by the State Bureau of Identification is also required.
The online application requires specific documents. These include a government-issued photo ID, military orders if applicable, and a firearms training course certificate or proof of exemption.
Individuals holding a valid Delaware Concealed Carry Deadly Weapon license issued by the Superior Court do not need to apply for a handgun qualified purchaser permit.
Exemptions Available
The permit requirement applies to most individuals except active or retired law enforcement officers and current CCDW holders. Qualified law enforcement officers, retired officers, military members, and other specific groups may be exempt from the firearms training course requirement. Proof of exemption must be submitted with the application.
Delaware law specifies all exemptions to the firearms training requirement. A list of approved firearms instructors is available on the Permit to Purchase website. The list receives regular updates as new instructors become certified.
Application Process
Applicants will be able to access and submit their applications through the Permit to Purchase Portal once it becomes available in the coming week. All application-related correspondence will be managed through DSP_SBIP2PMail@delaware.gov.
Due to the anticipated volume of submissions, State Bureau of Identification staff will not respond to individual questions about the application process. The Permit to Purchase website will serve as the main source for program updates and detailed information.
