License to Carry
allows the holder to purchase, possess and transport Handguns, Rifles and Shotguns, as well as their respective feeding devices. It further allows the bearer to carry a concealed handgun in public. This is the only license that allows this. A License to Carry is a “discretionary issue” permit, with part of the criteria being the issuing authority’s (Chief of Police) determination that the applicant is a “suitable” person. The Chief of Police also has the authority to impose any restrictions he deems proper on the terms of the license.
Firearms Identification Card (FID)
allows the holder to purchase, possess and transport non-large capacity rifles and shotguns. It also allows a handgun to be kept in the home or place of business only if the handgun was purchased with a Permit to Purchase. It does not, under any circumstances, allow the carrying or transport of any handgun in public by the FID holder.
Firearms Identification Card (FID restricted)
As of January 2015, a permit is no longer required to purchase, possess and carry aerosol incapacitating sprays such as “Mace” or pepper spray, if you are 18 years of age or older. Persons 15 years of age to 17 years of age are allowed to purchase, possess and carry aerosol incapacitating sprays such as “Mace” or pepper spray with written parent authorization and completion of application. These items can only be purchased through an ammunition dealer licensed in Massachusetts.