Can a felon own a gun in Maryland?

Maryland prohibits firearm possession for persons convicted of a felony or any 'disqualifying crime.' The only mechanism to restore firearm rights is a gubernatorial pardon. Expungement is available for some convictions but does not restore firearm rights on its own.

How can a felon restore gun rights in Maryland?

Apply for a gubernatorial pardon through the Maryland Parole Commission.

What is the waiting period for gun rights restoration in Maryland?

Must complete sentence. Pardon applications are reviewed by the Maryland Parole Commission. No fixed waiting period.

Are there exceptions to gun rights restoration in Maryland?

Expungement under Maryland law does not automatically restore firearm rights. Only a full pardon restores the right to possess firearms. Even misdemeanor domestic violence convictions trigger the prohibition.

Can a felon own a gun in Maryland?

No, not unless you receive a gubernatorial pardon that specifically includes restoration of firearm rights. Maryland permanently prohibits all felons from possessing any firearm — handguns, rifles, and shotguns. There is no court petition process, no automatic restoration after a waiting period, and expungement alone does not restore gun rights for most felonies. A pardon is the only pathway.

How do I apply for a pardon in Maryland?

Obtain the Application for Pardon from the Maryland Parole Commission (dpscs.state.md.us or call 410-585-3200). Complete the application with your conviction details, employment history, character references, and reasons for the pardon. Submit it with certified copies of court docket entries. The Parole Commission will investigate and make a recommendation to the Governor. Be sure to specifically request restoration of firearm rights.

How long does the pardon process take in Maryland?

The process varies significantly. After submitting a complete application, the Parole Commission investigation typically takes 6-18 months. After the Commission makes its recommendation, the Governor has sole discretion and no timeline for action. From initial application to final decision, the process commonly takes 1-3 years. Some applications remain pending for years without a decision.

What are 'disqualifying crimes' in Maryland?

Under Maryland Public Safety Code 5-133, disqualifying crimes include all felonies, crimes of violence, certain drug offenses, and specific misdemeanors such as second-degree assault, carrying a dangerous weapon, and certain theft offenses. Even misdemeanor convictions can permanently strip your firearm rights in Maryland. Check the statute or consult an attorney to determine if your specific conviction is disqualifying.

Can I get a waiver to apply for a pardon before the full waiting period?

The Maryland Parole Commission has discretion to grant waivers of the standard waiting periods. For non-violent felonies, the 10-year wait can be reduced to 7 years. For violent felonies and drug offenses, the 20-year wait can be reduced to 15 years. Waivers are not automatic and require a showing of exceptional circumstances. Contact the Parole Commission to discuss waiver eligibility.

What is the federal 18 USC 925(c) process, and is it available to Maryland residents?

Yes. The 18 USC 925(c) process was revived by the DOJ in 2025 and allows any federally prohibited person to petition the Attorney General for relief from federal firearms disabilities. This is a federal pathway that does not depend on Maryland's gubernatorial pardon process. It is particularly valuable for Maryland residents because the state's pardon-only system is slow and difficult. Applications are processed by the Office of the Pardon Attorney.

What happens if I possess a gun before my pardon is granted?

Possession of a firearm while prohibited is a serious criminal offense in Maryland and under federal law. Under Maryland law, unlawful possession of a regulated firearm can result in imprisonment of 1-10 years. Under federal law (18 USC 922(g)(1)), it is punishable by up to 15 years. A new conviction would also destroy your chances of obtaining a pardon.

Are there any organizations that can help with the pardon process in Maryland?

Yes. The Maryland Office of the Public Defender can provide guidance. The Navigating Barriers to Reentry in Maryland project (navigatingreentry.org) has pardon process information. The Firearms Industry Consulting Group offers specialized assistance with gun rights restoration. Local legal aid organizations such as the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service may also provide assistance.

My conviction was a long time ago. Does that help my pardon application?

Yes. The length of time since your conviction is one of the key factors the Parole Commission and Governor consider. A longer period of law-abiding conduct demonstrates rehabilitation and strengthens your application. However, time alone is not sufficient — you should also demonstrate employment stability, community involvement, character references, and a clear reason why the pardon serves the public interest.

Felon Gun Rights in Maryland

Pardon only

No, unless you receive a gubernatorial pardon. Maryland permanently prohibits firearm possession for all felony convictions and many 'disqualifying crimes.' The only way to restore your gun rights is through a pardon from the Governor that specifically includes restoration of firearm rights. Expungement alone does not restore gun rights for most felonies. The pardon process requires 10-20 years of crime-free conduct depending on the offense type.

Last updated: 2026-03-21

Overview

Maryland prohibits firearm possession for persons convicted of a felony or any 'disqualifying crime' under Public Safety Code 5-133 (handguns/regulated firearms) and 5-205/5-206 (rifles and shotguns). The only mechanism to restore firearm rights is a full gubernatorial pardon that specifically addresses firearms. Expungement is available for some offenses under the Justice Reinvestment Act, but does not automatically restore firearm rights for most felony convictions. The pardon process is managed by the Maryland Parole Commission, which investigates applications and makes recommendations to the Governor. Waiting periods for pardon eligibility range from 10 years (non-violent felonies) to 20 years (violent crimes and controlled substance offenses).

Quick Answer

Federal Law — 18 USC 922(g)

Under 18 USC 922(g)(1), any person convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year is federally prohibited from possessing firearms. In Maryland, a full gubernatorial pardon lifts the federal ban if it restores civil rights without expressly excluding firearms. However, a Maryland pardon does not automatically restore firearm rights — a separate, specific pardon document must expressly verify that firearm rights are restored. Expungement of certain offenses under the Justice Reinvestment Act may lift the federal ban for those specific offenses if it effectively erases the conviction. The revived federal 18 USC 925(c) process (2025) provides an additional federal pathway for individuals who cannot obtain a state pardon.

Can restore gun rights

✓Any person convicted of a felony may apply for a gubernatorial pardon after the applicable waiting period
✓Non-violent felony convictions: eligible for pardon application after 10 crime-free years (7 years with Parole Commission waiver)
✓Violent felony or controlled substance convictions: eligible for pardon application after 20 crime-free years (15 years with waiver)
✓Misdemeanor convictions: eligible for pardon application after 5 crime-free years (3 years with waiver)
✓Persons whose specific offense qualifies for expungement under the Justice Reinvestment Act may have firearm rights restored if the conviction is fully erased (limited offenses)

Cannot restore gun rights

✗Persons who have not completed their full sentence (incarceration, probation, parole, and all financial obligations)
✗Persons who have not maintained the required crime-free period (10-20 years depending on offense type)
✗Persons with pending criminal charges
✗Persons whose pardon does not specifically include restoration of firearm rights (a general pardon alone is insufficient)
✗Persons convicted of a disqualifying misdemeanor (such as certain assault and domestic violence offenses) — same pardon requirement
✗Persons subject to a protective order — separately prohibited regardless of pardon status
✗Persons whose conviction is expunged but the expungement does not meet federal criteria for lifting the federal firearms ban

Step-by-Step Process

Determine your eligibility timeline

Calculate how long it has been since your conviction and sentence completion. Non-violent felonies require 10 crime-free years (7 with waiver). Violent felonies and controlled substance offenses require 20 crime-free years (15 with waiver). Misdemeanors require 5 crime-free years (3 with waiver). Contact the Maryland Parole Commission at 410-585-3200 to verify your eligibility.

Obtain your criminal records

Request certified copies of docket entries for every conviction you wish to address. These must be stamped by the court with 'True Copy, Test,' bear the Clerk of Court's signature, and include the court seal. Also obtain a copy of your complete criminal history from the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS).

Complete the Pardon Application

Obtain the Application for Pardon from the Maryland Parole Commission (available online at dpscs.state.md.us). Complete all sections, including your personal information, conviction details, employment history, community involvement, and reasons for requesting a pardon. You must specifically request restoration of firearm rights in the application — a general pardon alone does not restore gun rights.

Submit the application and supporting documents

Mail the completed application, certified docket entries, character reference letters, employment verification, and any other supporting documentation to: Maryland Parole Commission, 6776 Reisterstown Road, Suite 302, Baltimore, Maryland 21215. Complete the Pardon Application Checklist to ensure all required documents are included.

Parole Commission investigation and review

The Maryland Parole Commission will conduct a thorough investigation, which may include interviews with you, victims, prosecutors, and community members. The investigation reviews your rehabilitation, community ties, employment, and criminal history. This process can take several months to over a year.

Recommendation to the Governor

After investigation, the Parole Commission makes a recommendation to the Governor. The Governor has sole discretion to grant or deny the pardon. If granted, ensure you receive a specific, separate pardon document that expressly verifies restoration of your firearm rights. A general pardon without this specific language may not restore gun rights.

Waiting Period

Non-violent felonies: 10 crime-free years after conviction (7 years with Parole Commission waiver). Violent felonies and controlled substance offenses: 20 crime-free years (15 years with waiver). Misdemeanors: 5 crime-free years (3 years with waiver). The waiting period is measured from the date of conviction, not the date of sentence completion. The Parole Commission has discretion to grant waivers of the waiting period in exceptional cases.

Key Laws

Law	Year	Description
Maryland Public Safety Code 5-133 — Regulated Firearms (Handguns)	2003 (amended periodically)	Prohibits possession of regulated firearms (primarily handguns) by persons convicted of a felony, crime of violence, or any 'disqualifying crime.' Also prohibits persons who have been confined for more than one year for any single conviction. The prohibition extends to persons convicted of misdemeanor crimes that are classified as 'disqualifying.'
Maryland Public Safety Code 5-205 / 5-206 — Rifles and Shotguns	2003	Extends the firearm prohibition to rifles and shotguns for persons convicted of felonies and disqualifying crimes. Maryland's prohibition covers all firearm types, not just handguns.
Maryland Criminal Procedure 10-110 — Expungement (Justice Reinvestment Act)	2016 (expanded 2020, 2021)	Allows expungement of certain convictions, including some misdemeanors and limited felonies. The Justice Reinvestment Act expanded eligibility to include second-degree assault and other offenses. However, expungement of a felony conviction does not automatically restore firearm rights — a separate pardon addressing firearms is still typically required.
Maryland Parole Commission — Pardon Guidelines	Ongoing	Informal guidelines governing the pardon application process. Establishes waiting periods: 10 years for felonies (7 with waiver), 5 years for misdemeanors (3 with waiver), 20 years for crimes of violence and controlled substance violations (15 with waiver). The guidelines are not statutory but are followed by the Parole Commission in practice.
18 USC 922(g)(1) — Federal Firearms Prohibition	1968	Federal law prohibiting any person convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year of imprisonment from possessing firearms. Lifted by a Maryland pardon that restores civil rights without excluding firearms. Expungement may also lift the federal ban for specific offenses if it fully erases the conviction.
18 USC 925(c) — Federal Firearms Disability Relief (Revived 2025)	1968 (revived 2025)	Federal process for petitioning the DOJ for relief from federal firearms disabilities. Particularly important for Maryland residents because the state's pardon-only pathway is slow and difficult. Provides a federal alternative that does not depend on the Governor's discretion.

Edge Cases

I had my conviction expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Are my gun rights restored?

Not automatically for most felonies. While the Justice Reinvestment Act expanded expungement eligibility, Maryland courts have generally held that expungement alone does not restore firearm rights for felony convictions — a separate pardon specifically addressing firearms is still required. However, for certain misdemeanor offenses that are fully expunged (such as second-degree assault), the expungement may effectively remove the disqualifying conviction. Consult a firearms attorney to determine if your specific expungement restores gun rights.

I received a general pardon from the Governor but it does not mention firearms. Are my gun rights restored?

Not necessarily. In Maryland, a pardon does not automatically restore firearm rights. You must obtain a specific, separate pardon document that expressly verifies the restoration of your firearm rights. If your pardon does not include this specific language, contact the Maryland Parole Commission to request a supplemental pardon document addressing firearms.

I was convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense. Can I get my gun rights back in Maryland?

Misdemeanor domestic violence convictions trigger both a Maryland state prohibition and a federal prohibition under 18 USC 922(g)(9) (the Lautenberg Amendment). A Maryland pardon can address the state prohibition, but the federal Lautenberg Amendment prohibition is only lifted if the conviction is expunged or pardoned. You would need a pardon that specifically addresses firearms AND meets the federal requirements for removing the domestic violence disability.

Can I possess a firearm at home while waiting for my pardon application to be processed?

No. You are prohibited from possessing any firearm anywhere — including your home — until your pardon is granted and specifically includes restoration of firearm rights. Possession of a firearm while prohibited is a separate criminal offense under Maryland law and federal law. Do not possess any firearm until you have official documentation of the pardon with firearms restoration.

The Maryland Supreme Court upheld gun bans for non-felony cases. How does this affect me?

In 2025, the Maryland Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of Maryland's gun possession ban for certain non-felony 'disqualifying crimes.' This means that even some misdemeanor convictions can result in a permanent firearms prohibition in Maryland. If you have any criminal conviction — felony or misdemeanor — verify whether it is a 'disqualifying crime' under Maryland Public Safety Code 5-133 before attempting to possess a firearm.

I was convicted in federal court while living in Maryland. Does Maryland's pardon process apply?

No. Maryland's gubernatorial pardon only applies to Maryland state convictions. Federal convictions require a presidential pardon or relief under the revived 18 USC 925(c) federal process. If you have both state and federal convictions, you may need to pursue separate restoration pathways for each.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a felon own a gun in Maryland?: No, not unless you receive a gubernatorial pardon that specifically includes restoration of firearm rights. Maryland permanently prohibits all felons from possessing any firearm — handguns, rifles, and shotguns. There is no court petition process, no automatic restoration after a waiting period, and expungement alone does not restore gun rights for most felonies. A pardon is the only pathway.
How do I apply for a pardon in Maryland?: Obtain the Application for Pardon from the Maryland Parole Commission (dpscs.state.md.us or call 410-585-3200). Complete the application with your conviction details, employment history, character references, and reasons for the pardon. Submit it with certified copies of court docket entries. The Parole Commission will investigate and make a recommendation to the Governor. Be sure to specifically request restoration of firearm rights.
How long does the pardon process take in Maryland?: The process varies significantly. After submitting a complete application, the Parole Commission investigation typically takes 6-18 months. After the Commission makes its recommendation, the Governor has sole discretion and no timeline for action. From initial application to final decision, the process commonly takes 1-3 years. Some applications remain pending for years without a decision.
What are 'disqualifying crimes' in Maryland?: Under Maryland Public Safety Code 5-133, disqualifying crimes include all felonies, crimes of violence, certain drug offenses, and specific misdemeanors such as second-degree assault, carrying a dangerous weapon, and certain theft offenses. Even misdemeanor convictions can permanently strip your firearm rights in Maryland. Check the statute or consult an attorney to determine if your specific conviction is disqualifying.
Does expungement restore gun rights in Maryland?: Generally no, for felony convictions. Maryland expungement under the Justice Reinvestment Act does not automatically restore firearm rights for most felonies. A separate gubernatorial pardon specifically addressing firearms is still required. However, for certain misdemeanor offenses that are fully expunged, the expungement may remove the disqualifying conviction. The interaction between expungement and firearm rights in Maryland is complex — consult an attorney.
Can I get a waiver to apply for a pardon before the full waiting period?: The Maryland Parole Commission has discretion to grant waivers of the standard waiting periods. For non-violent felonies, the 10-year wait can be reduced to 7 years. For violent felonies and drug offenses, the 20-year wait can be reduced to 15 years. Waivers are not automatic and require a showing of exceptional circumstances. Contact the Parole Commission to discuss waiver eligibility.
What is the federal 18 USC 925(c) process, and is it available to Maryland residents?: Yes. The 18 USC 925(c) process was revived by the DOJ in 2025 and allows any federally prohibited person to petition the Attorney General for relief from federal firearms disabilities. This is a federal pathway that does not depend on Maryland's gubernatorial pardon process. It is particularly valuable for Maryland residents because the state's pardon-only system is slow and difficult. Applications are processed by the Office of the Pardon Attorney.
What happens if I possess a gun before my pardon is granted?: Possession of a firearm while prohibited is a serious criminal offense in Maryland and under federal law. Under Maryland law, unlawful possession of a regulated firearm can result in imprisonment of 1-10 years. Under federal law (18 USC 922(g)(1)), it is punishable by up to 15 years. A new conviction would also destroy your chances of obtaining a pardon.
Are there any organizations that can help with the pardon process in Maryland?: Yes. The Maryland Office of the Public Defender can provide guidance. The Navigating Barriers to Reentry in Maryland project (navigatingreentry.org) has pardon process information. The Firearms Industry Consulting Group offers specialized assistance with gun rights restoration. Local legal aid organizations such as the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service may also provide assistance.
My conviction was a long time ago. Does that help my pardon application?: Yes. The length of time since your conviction is one of the key factors the Parole Commission and Governor consider. A longer period of law-abiding conduct demonstrates rehabilitation and strengthens your application. However, time alone is not sufficient — you should also demonstrate employment stability, community involvement, character references, and a clear reason why the pardon serves the public interest.

Take Action — Direct Links

Maryland Parole Commission — Pardon Information
Official state resource for pardon applications, guidelines, and contact information. Includes links to the pardon application form and checklist.
Maryland Parole Commission — Pardon Guidelines (PDF)
Detailed guidelines for the pardon application process, including eligibility timelines, required documentation, and investigation procedures.
Carey Law Office — Gun Rights Restoration After a Maryland Conviction (2026)
Comprehensive 2026 legal guide covering Maryland gun rights restoration, including the pardon process, expungement limitations, and federal compliance.
Firearms Industry Consulting Group — Expungements and Pardons in Maryland
Specialized firearms law resource covering the interaction between Maryland expungement, pardons, and firearm rights restoration.
Navigating Barriers to Reentry in Maryland — Pardon Guide
Reentry resource with step-by-step guidance on the Maryland pardon process, including tips for strengthening your application.
Collateral Consequences Resource Center — Maryland Restoration Profile
Comprehensive profile of Maryland's restoration of rights landscape, including firearms, expungement, pardons, and other civil rights. Regularly updated.
DOJ — Federal Firearm Rights Restoration (18 USC 925(c))
Federal pathway for relief from federal firearms disabilities, revived in 2025. Important alternative to Maryland's difficult pardon-only state process.