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The Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) course is a state-mandated training program required for residents of Maryland who wish to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. This 4-hour course is designed to promote safe and responsible firearm ownership and meets the standards set by the Maryland State Police.

Course Overview:

Introduction to Maryland HQL Requirements

  • Overview of HQL law and application process

  • Who needs an HQL and who is exempt

  • Responsibilities of handgun owners

  • Penalties for noncompliance

State Firearm Laws

  • Maryland firearm ownership and transfer laws

  • Regulated firearm definitions

  • Permissible and prohibited conduct

  • Safe storage laws (Child Access Prevention)

Firearm Safety and Responsible Storage

  • Four basic rules of firearm safety

  • Proper storage and transport methods

  • Use of locking devices and safes

  • Suicide and accident prevention

Handgun Mechanisms and Operation

  • Identifying parts of a handgun

  • Single-action vs. double-action mechanisms

  • Ammunition types and selection

  • Safe loading and unloading procedures

Operation and Handling Demonstration

  • Hands-on instruction with inert or training handguns

  • Proper grip, stance, and sight alignment

  • Dry-fire practice and safe handling drills

  • Clearing common malfunctions

Live-Fire Component

  • Supervised firing of at least one live round (required by law)

  • Emphasis on safety and marksmanship basics

  • Immediate feedback from instructor

  • Final Q&A and course wrap-up