Handgun permit applications will only be accepted during regular business hours.
Permit to carry
1. Where can I get a permit to carry a pistol?
For Minnesota residents, individuals may obtain permits to carry a pistol by submitting an application and other related documentation, in person, to the sheriff in the county where the applicant resides. Non-residents may apply to any Minnesota county sheriff.
2. What are the requirements for getting a permit to carry?
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must complete an application form.
- Must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm.
- Must not be listed in the criminal gang investigation system.
- Must be a resident of the county from which you are requesting a permit if you reside in Minnesota. Non-residents may apply to any Minnesota county sheriff.
- Must provide certificate of completed authorized firearms training. Training by a certified instructor and completed within one year prior to applying for a permit to carry.
3. How long do I have to wait to get my permit?
The county sheriff must either issue or deny a permit within 30 days of the application date.
4. How long is my permit valid?
Permits are valid for five (5) years from the date of issuance.
5. How do I renew my permit?
Permits may be renewed at the issuing county sheriff’s office within 90 days of the expiration date of
the current permit.
6. Where can I get an application?
Applications will be available at the county sheriff’s office and on the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s website. Refer to links on the right side of this page.
7. How much does a permit to carry cost
New permit to carry applications are $100. Renewals are $75 if you renew before the expiration date; within 30-days after the expiration date it is $85. If renewing more than 30-days after expiration, it is considered a new permit and your fee is $100. A re-print of a permit to carry card is $10. Acceptable forms of payment are CASH or CHECK.
Permit to Acquire
1. Where can I get a permit to acquire?
Douglas County residents may obtain a permit to acquire by submitting an application, in person, to the Sheriff’s Office; however, if you reside within the city limits of Alexandria or Osakis, you must apply at your respective police departments.
2. What are the requirements for getting a permit to acquire?
- Must be at least 21 years of age to purchase a handgun or handgun ammunition.
- Must be at least 18 years of age to purchase a semi-automatic assault rifle.
- Must complete an application form.
- Must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm.
3. How long is my permit valid?
Permits to acquire are valid for one (1) year from the date of issuance.
4. How do I renew my permit?
Douglas County residents may renew their permit to acquire by submitting another application, in person, to the Sheriff’s Office; however, city of Alexandria and Osakis residents are still required to apply are their respective police departments.
5. Where can I get an application?
Applications are available at the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Alexandria Police Department, the Osakis Police Department, and on the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s website.
6. How much does the permit to acquire cost?
The permit to acquire is free of charge.