Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) Training Program

Part I of the Maryland Wear and Carry Training Program

Begin Your Journey in Responsible Firearm Ownership

The Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) Training Program is designed for Maryland residents seeking to purchase a handgun while building a strong foundation in safe and responsible firearm ownership.

This comprehensive training program satisfies the Maryland State Police training requirement for obtaining a Handgun Qualification License (HQL), which is required before purchasing a handgun in Maryland.

For students planning to obtain their Maryland Wear and Carry Permit, this Training Program also fulfills Part I of Maryland's required 16-hour Wear and Carry Training Program, allowing you to continue your education with confidence.

At Assured Shot, we believe that education is a lifelong responsibility—not a single class. Our goal is not simply to prepare you to meet a state requirement, but to build the knowledge, assurance, and responsibility that support safe, lawful, and confident firearm ownership.

Learning Objectives

During this four-hour Training Program, students will learn:

• The fundamental rules of firearm safety

• Handgun components, operation, and safe handling

• Proper ammunition selection and terminology

• Shooting fundamentals and marksmanship principles

• Common firearm malfunctions and safe corrective procedures

• Techniques to improve accuracy and consistency

• Firearm maintenance, cleaning, and safe storage

• Maryland and Federal firearm laws applicable to responsible firearm ownership

Live-Fire Training

This Training Program includes the live-fire component required by the Maryland State Police for the Handgun Qualification License.

Following successful completion of the classroom instruction, students will participate in an individually scheduled live-fire session. We will work with each student to arrange a convenient 30-minute appointment that provides focused instruction and personalized coaching.

Students continuing to the Maryland Wear and Carry Training Program will complete additional live-fire training as required to satisfy Maryland's 16-hour training requirement.

Program Information

This Training Program Includes

• Maryland State Police HQL training requirement

• Required classroom instruction

• Required live-fire qualification

• Personalized live-fire coaching

Please Note

• Maryland electronic fingerprinting fees are not included in the Training Program tuition.

• Ammunition is not included in the Training Program tuition.

Training Location

Rockville, Maryland

Program Investment

Training Program: $128

Range Fee: $25 (paid directly to the range)

Total Investment: $153

Required Equipment

Eye and ear protection are required during the live-fire session.

Students who do not have their own protective equipment may borrow equipment provided by Assured Shot or rent or purchase equipment directly from the range.

Who Should Attend?

This Training Program is ideal for:

• Maryland residents purchasing their first handgun

• First-time firearm owners

• Individuals with little or no shooting experience

• Students preparing for the Maryland Wear and Carry Training Program

• Anyone seeking a strong foundation in safe and responsible firearm ownership

Program Outcome

Upon completion of this Training Program, students will have satisfied the Maryland State Police training requirement for obtaining a Handgun Qualification License while developing the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for safe firearm ownership.

More importantly, students will leave with something that extends beyond meeting a legal requirement.

Greater knowledge.

Greater assurance.

Greater responsibility.

Continue Your Training

Students planning to obtain a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit may continue their education by enrolling in Part II — Maryland Wear and Carry Training Program, which fulfills the remaining requirements of Maryland's 16-hour training standard.

Ready to Begin?

Take the first step toward responsible firearm ownership through professional instruction grounded in education, integrity, and safety.

Begin Your Training