Weapon Permits

Permit to Carry Weapons  Permit to Acquire Handgun

How to Get a Permit to Purchase a Gun

1. Fill out a Permit to Acquire Handgun Application
2. Email form or come to the sheriff’s office between 8 a.m. -  4 p.m. If you bring it in, there may be a wait.
3. We will run a criminal history background check.
4. Come to the Law Enforcement Center at 17262 Lark Ave., Mason City with a government issued photo ID and $25 cash or check. If you pass the background check, you will be issued a 5 year permit to acquire.  You will receive your weapon permit in the mail within 7-10 days.

How Do I Get a Permit to Carry a Gun?

1. Fill out an Iowa Permit to Carry Weapons Application
2. Complete a training class by a licensed instructor OR provide DD214 with an honorable discharge.
3. Email form and certificate of training or come to the sheriff’s office between 8 am-4pm. If you bring it in, there may be a wait.
4. We will run a criminal history background check.
5. Come to the Law Enforcement Center at 17262 Lark Ave., Mason City with a government issued photo ID and $50 cash or check.  If you pass the background check, you will be issued a 5 year permit to carry.  You will receive your weapon permit in the mail within 10 - 20 days.
6. You can see more information on the state website , including changes to Iowa law from 2021.