Minnesota Permit to Carry FAQ
Straight answers about our class, getting and renewing your permit, and carrying in Minnesota.
Don't see your question? Text 507-533-5774 or email Chris.
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About the Class
How long is the in-person class?
Our in-person Permit to Carry classes run from 9 am to 2:30 pm. That includes the classroom part and the range part. We don't break for lunch, so bring a snack if you'd like. See the dates on our class calendar.
What should I bring to class?
- Pen and paper if you are a note taker.
- A handgun with 20 rounds of ammo. Please leave it in your vehicle until we are at the range.
- Lunch or snacks if you would like to eat. We will not be breaking for lunch.
- Clothes for the range. It is outside.
Eye and ear protection is provided free to use, so you don't need to bring your own.
Do I need my own gun and ammo?
No. If you don't own a handgun, we can provide one with ammo, free of charge. If you bring your own, bring 20 rounds.
What is the range portion like? Is it hard?
Minnesota law requires a live shooting qualification as part of the training. Ours isn't a marksmanship test. It just shows you can operate a handgun safely. The range is outside, so dress for the weather.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 2a
I've never shot a handgun. Is this class for me?
Yes. No experience is needed and beginners are welcome. There are no prerequisites, so you don't need hunter or firearms safety first.
Can I take the class online?
Yes. Our online class is approved by the Minnesota BCA. You do the classroom part online, at your own pace, on your phone, computer or tablet. Then you finish with a simple in-person range qualification. Range times are available most nights and some weekends in Kasson. Book a range time or see the online class page.
Online students are always welcome to join an in-person class at no extra cost.
How much does the class cost?
$80 for the in-person class or the online class. No hidden fees, and range fees are included. This is separate from the permit fee you pay the sheriff.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes. Military and first responders get $30 off. Before you register, text 507-533-5774 or email chris@mnselfdefense.com. We'll send you a discount code to use at checkout.
Do you offer private or group classes?
Yes. The minimum is 8 people. We can come to your location or host the class at ours. Pricing depends on your group and the details, so text or email us for a quote. With 10 or more people, the host's class is free.
Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?
Yes. If you're not happy with the class, you owe nothing. If you pre-paid, you get a full refund. Still unsure? Check out our reviews.
Getting Your Permit
Who can get a Minnesota permit to carry?
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Have pistol training from a certified instructor within one year of applying.
- Not be prohibited from having a firearm under state or federal law.
- Not be listed in the state's criminal gang database.
Military members still need the class. It covers Minnesota's legal rules for carrying.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 2 and the BCA FAQ
I'm 18 to 20. Can I get a permit?
Yes. The statute still says 21, but the courts struck that down for 18 to 20 year olds in Worth v. Jacobson. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the case on April 21, 2025. Sheriffs now issue permits to qualified applicants 18 to 20. Some other states still require you to be 21 to carry there.
Source: BCA Permit to Carry FAQ
How and where do I apply?
Take the class first. Then bring these to the sheriff's office in the county where you live:
- The completed BCA application form.
- A copy of your training certificate.
- A copy of your driver's license, state ID or passport photo page.
You must apply in person. Mail-in applications are not allowed. If you live in another state, you can apply at any Minnesota sheriff's office. Our step-by-step guide walks you through it, and the forms are on our applications page.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 3
How much is the permit fee?
Your county sheriff sets the fee. By law it can't be more than $100 for a new permit. Some counties charge less. This fee goes to the sheriff and is separate from our $80 class.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 3(f)
How long does it take to get my permit?
The sheriff must issue or deny your permit within 30 days of getting your complete application. If they don't send you a denial within 30 days, the law treats the permit as issued.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 6
Is there an emergency permit?
Yes. A sheriff can issue an emergency permit right away if you face an immediate safety risk to you or someone in your household. You fill out the application and sign an affidavit about the emergency. No training proof and no fee are needed. It lasts 30 days and can't be renewed, so plan to take the class and apply for a regular permit.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 11a
Renewing
How long is my permit good for, and when can I renew?
A permit is good for five years from the date it was issued. You can renew starting 90 days before it expires. Renew in person at the sheriff's office in your county. Non-residents can renew at any Minnesota sheriff's office. Your permit expires at midnight on the date printed on the card.
Use our renewal calculator to find your window and sign up for a reminder.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 7 and the BCA FAQ
Do I have to retake the class to renew?
Yes. You need a training certificate from within one year before your renewal application, just like a new permit.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 2a
What does renewal cost, and what if I'm late?
The renewal fee is up to $75. If you renew within 30 days after your permit expires, there is an extra $10 late fee. Your expired permit isn't valid during that time, so you can't carry until your new card is issued. After 30 days, you have to apply for a new permit.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 7(c) and the BCA FAQ
What if I move or lose my permit?
Tell the sheriff who issued your permit within 30 days if you change your legal name or permanent address, or if your card is lost or destroyed. Skipping this is a petty misdemeanor. A replacement card costs $10.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 7a
Carrying in Minnesota and Other States
Do I have to carry concealed?
No. Minnesota has a permit to carry law, not a concealed carry law. With a permit, you can carry openly or concealed.
Source: BCA Permit to Carry FAQ
Do I have to tell police I'm carrying?
You don't have to bring it up on your own. But whenever you carry, you must have your permit card and a photo ID with you. If an officer asks, you must show both and tell them whether you are carrying a firearm.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.714, subd. 1b
Can a business ban guns?
Yes. A private business can ban guns by posting a sign at every entrance that says "(business name) BANS GUNS IN THESE PREMISES," or by telling you in person. If you are asked to leave and don't, it is a petty misdemeanor. A business can't ban guns in its parking lot. Employers can set rules for employees on the job. Landlords can't restrict tenants or their guests.
Can I carry after drinking?
Be careful. The law says you can't carry a pistol in public while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or cannabis, or with an alcohol concentration over 0.04.
Source: Minn. Stat. 624.7142
Can I carry at a school?
No. It is a crime for a permit holder to carry on school property. There is an exception for permit holders while they are in their vehicle, for example when dropping off or picking up kids.
Source: Minn. Stat. 609.66, subd. 1d
Where else can I carry with my Minnesota permit?
A Minnesota resident permit is honored in 35 states, counting states with permitless carry. Rules and age limits vary, and many states require you to be 21. Check our carry recognition maps before you travel, and confirm with the state you are visiting.
Payments and Policies
How can I pay? Can I pre-pay or buy a gift certificate?
We accept credit cards, checks, cash, Venmo and PayPal. You can pre-pay for a class or buy an $80 gift certificate in our shop.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel any time. We appreciate 24 hours' notice. To cancel or reschedule, text us at 507-533-5774 or email chris@mnselfdefense.com.
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Disclaimer: This FAQ is general information, not legal advice. Laws change, and your county sheriff makes the final decision on your permit. Check the Minnesota statutes and the BCA Permit to Carry FAQ for the official rules.
Last updated October 2026.
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