Gun Permits

Download a Permit to Purchase application (PDF)

Requirements

Minnesota law requires a Permit to Purchase in order to obtain a handgun through the following methods from another person:
  • Assignment
  • Gift
  • Loan
  • Purchase
  • Sale
  • Other Delivery

Background Checks

State law requires law enforcement agencies to conduct a series of background related checks to ensure the eligibility requirements established in state law are meet. 

Timeline & No Fees

A Permit to Purchase card or denial letter will be mailed within seven days. Permits to Purchase are valid for one year. There is no fee. 

Apply for a Permit

  • Permit applications will be accepted in person at the Big Lake Police Department, Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., excluding holidays. Applications MUST be submitted with your MN State ID. 
  • Download and complete a Permit to Purchase application (PDF)
  • Be sure to include full name and address exactly as shown on your ID.
  • Do not leave any boxes on the form empty. If a question does not apply to you (i.e. Alias, physical characteristics), please put "N/A" or "None." 
  • Once you have completed the form, print it out. 
  • Bring the form and your Minnesota State issued identification to the Big Lake Police Department between 7:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Thursday or 7:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Friday. 

Permit Process

  • Complete the state application. All areas of the application must be filled in completely, signed and dated on the date presented. Falsified applications will be reviewed for possible criminal prosecution. 
  • You must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien. Applicants must have a current Minnesota driver's license, Minnesota ID card or passport with supporting residency documentation on their person at the time of application. 
  • You must be 21 years or older under federal law to acquire handguns from licensed dealers. 
  • You must not be a fugitive. Any type of warrant (including petty parking) classifieds a person as a fugitive. 
  • You must not be the subject of a restraining order. 
  • You must not meet any exclusion for permit criteria. 

Option for a One-Time Purchase

For a one-time purchase of a handgun from a gun shop or dealer without a permit to purchase, an application can be made directly at the gun shop / dealer where the purchase will be made. The gun shop / dealer will require a consent form to be completed to allow a background check to be conducted to determine eligibility to purchase a handgun. Gun shops / dealers are entitled to charge a fee for this service.