Concealed Handgun Permit
Concealed Handgun Permit Application Processing Update
Effective July 1, 2026, the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Identification Bureau will implement a new policy regarding Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) and CHP Renewal applications that remain incomplete for an extended period of time.
Previously, applications could remain in an active processing status while awaiting additional documentation or resolution of outstanding issues. Beginning July 1, 2026, applications that remain incomplete or contain outstanding requirements for more than six months are subject to administrative withdrawal by the Sheriff.
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 14-415.15, within 45 days after receipt of the items required under N.C.G.S. § 14-415.13 and the required mental health records, the Sheriff must either issue or deny the permit.
The Identification Bureau is committed to providing efficient, accurate, and customer-focused service. As application volumes continue to increase, maintaining applications with long-term outstanding requirements has become increasingly challenging and may affect the timely processing of all permit requests.
Applications that cannot be completed due to missing documentation, unresolved legal matters, or other outstanding requirements may be subject to administrative withdrawal after six months. Once the issue has been resolved, applicants may submit a new application for consideration.
Please note that under North Carolina law, Concealed Handgun Permit application fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether an application is approved, denied, revoked, or withdrawn.
Application Status Updates
The Identification Bureau will make reasonable efforts to notify applicants when an application remains incomplete for more than 120 days. Notifications may be provided by mail, email, or telephone.
Applicants who have not received communication regarding their CHP or CHP Renewal application within 120 days of submission are encouraged to contact the Identification Bureau to request a status update.
For questions regarding an application or its status, please contact the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Identification Bureau.
Criteria of Issuance:
An applicant must be a resident of Buncombe County and a resident of North Carolina for 30 days prior to the application being filed.
An applicant must be at least 21 years of age.
An applicant must not suffer from any physical or mental weakness that prevents the safe handling of a handgun.
An applicant must have successfully completed a North Carolina approved firearms safety and training course.
A Concealed Weapon Permit requires a $90 nonrefundable fee (which includes a $10 fingerprint fee) for a NEW application or a $75 nonrefundable fee for a RENEWAL application payable online using any major credit or debit card. A convenience fee of $4 (plus a credit card processing fee) will also be charged for using the online application service
Application Process:
A North Carolina approved Firearm Safety Training Certificate (original certificate).
Valid driver's license or ID card (all information on license or ID card must be correct).
Naturalized Residents must bring your Naturalization Certificate or a valid U.S. Passport.
DD214 (if discharged from military).
All required items must be provided at the time of your appointment otherwise the appointment may need to be rescheduled.
Persons not eligible include anyone:
Found guilty or received a prayer for judgment continued or suspended sentence for any crimes of violence or misdemeanor assaults as defined by General Statutes.
Under indictment or against whom a finding of probable cause exists for a felony.
Found guilty in any court for a felony.
Receiving a prayer for judgment continued for any criminal offense which disqualifies a person from receiving a Concealed Handgun Permit.
Who is a fugitive from justice.
Who is an unlawful user of or addicted to illegal drugs.
Discharged from the armed forces for other than honorable reasons.
Who has been ruled mentally ill or lacking mental capacity.
Ineligible to own, possess, or receive a firearm under the provisions of state or federal law.
Free on bond or personal recognizance pending trial, appeal or sentencing for a crime which disqualifies a person from receiving a Concealed Handgun Permit.
Convicted of an impaired driving offense within three years prior to application.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQ page is designed to address the most common inquiries. If your question is not answered here, or if you require more detailed information, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Our team is here to assist you in any way we can, fostering a safe and informed community.
