Premises vs carry: which NYC license is which
Two different licenses, two different things they let you do. Here's the distinction in plain terms — sourced to the statute that sets it.
In New York, a premises license lets you possess a handgun at a specific location — your home or your place of business — while a carry license lets you carry a handgun concealed. A premises license does not let you carry in public; a carry license does. Both go through the NYPD License Division, which sets the standards and keeps full discretion over the decision.
Same division, different license
The most common mix-up we hear is treating “a gun license” as one thing. It isn't. What a license lets you do — keep a handgun at a fixed location, or carry one concealed — is written into the license type itself. Applying for the wrong one wastes the part of the calendar you actually control: the preparation before you file.
The rules below are set by New York State and the NYPD, not by us. Here are the primary sources:
New York issues distinct handgun license types: a premises license authorizes possessing a handgun at a specified location — a dwelling or a place of business — while a carry license authorizes carrying a handgun concealed. The unrestricted carry license permits concealed carry without regard to employment or a particular place of possession.
Set by NY Penal Law §400.00(2) · source · we last checked 2026-08-02
A premises license does not authorize carrying a handgun in public. It covers possession at the licensed location, with only limited lawful transport — for example, directly to and from an authorized range — under New York law.
Set by NY Penal Law §400.00 · source · we last checked 2026-08-02
The NYPD retains full investigative discretion over the decision.
Set by NYPD License Division · source · we last checked 2026-07-14
This page explains the general distinction. It is not legal advice about your situation. If you're weighing which license to pursue, or your circumstances are unusual, talk to a licensed attorney.
What is the difference between a premises and a carry license in NYC?+
A premises license lets you possess a handgun at a specified location — a home or a place of business. A carry license lets you carry a handgun concealed. An unrestricted carry license permits concealed carry without regard to your job or a particular place. They are different licenses with different standards.
Can I carry my handgun with a premises license?+
No. A premises license covers possession at the licensed location. It does not authorize carrying the handgun around in public. New York allows only limited lawful transport — for example, directly to and from an authorized range — under its transport rules.
Which license should I apply for?+
That depends on what you actually need — keeping a firearm at home or at a business, versus carrying one. The application, standards, and investigation are set by the NYPD License Division, which keeps full discretion over the decision. If you're unsure which fits your situation, that's a good question for a licensed attorney.
Is the process different for a premises versus a carry license?+
Both go through the same NYPD License Division and share the core requirements — training, references, the investigation, and the interview. What differs is the license type you apply for and what it authorizes once issued.
Not sure which one fits? Start with a two-minute eligibility check.
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