What Disqualifies You From Getting a CCW in New Jersey? (2026 Guide)

New Jersey law no longer requires you to demonstrate a justifiable need when applying for a concealed carry permit. However, the state’s gun laws remain strict, which is why NJ and, specifically, Lakewood residents and workers need to know what hurdles could stand in their way during the permitting process.

The New Jersey State Police clearly outlines CCW requirements in NJ. If you check all of the basic boxes, you may think that getting your permit is relatively simple. In most cases, it is. However, there are many different NJ CCW disqualifications that could result in a denied application.

Read on to learn of some of the reasons for CCW denial in NJ, so you can understand why your application may get denied. You’ll also learn who cannot get a CCW permit in NJ.

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Criminal Convictions and Ongoing Charges

Individuals who have a prior conviction of a first-, second-, third-, or fourth-degree crime will have their CCW applications denied.

Essentially, any criminal offense that carries a potential sentence of at least one year of incarceration results in a denied CCW application. Violent felonies, like robbery, aggravated assault, and kidnapping, are a few examples. Gang-related and terroristic crimes are other examples.

Individuals with active warrants for indictable offenses are automatically disqualified as well. These bans occur whether the offense occurred in New Jersey or another state.

Certain criminal convictions or pending charges may also prohibit you from visiting a gun range. For example, convicted felons are not allowed to possess firearms, including temporarily possessing a firearm at a gun range.

Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders

New Jersey also prohibits individuals with domestic violence convictions from obtaining a CCW. This includes misdemeanor or disorderly person charges. These types of convictions represent a hard stop during the eligibility process. If you are subject to an active restraining order, including a temporary order, it bars you from obtaining a permit.

Any past violation of a domestic violence restraining order guarantees a denial. These policies are part of NJ’s hardline stance against any domestic violence offenses.

Substance Abuse and Drug Convictions

Individuals who are diagnosed with a current drug dependency or have a history of habitual drug or alcohol misuse are ineligible for a CCW permit. Convictions for unlawfully possessing, using, or selling a controlled substance, such as drug trafficking charges, also leads to a denial.

The NJSP will closely scrutinize any recent substance-related arrests. During the review process, investigators will be looking for patterns of a potential substance abuse issue.

Possessing a medical marijuana card could disqualify you from obtaining your concealed carry permit as well. While the medical marijuana card allows you to lawfully use, possess, and purchase cannabis, it may also be viewed as an indicator of a substance misuse pattern.

It is worth noting that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously in United States v. Hemani (June 2026) that the federal government cannot automatically disqualify someone from firearm ownership based solely on marijuana use, without a showing of actual danger or impairment. That said, this ruling addressed federal law only and did not change New Jersey’s state-level CCW review process. As of now, the New Jersey Attorney General’s office has not announced any changes to how marijuana use is evaluated in permit applications. Applicants who hold a medical marijuana card or have a history of marijuana use should expect that information to be reviewed as part of the NJSP’s broader character and fitness assessment, and are strongly encouraged to consult with a firearms attorney before applying.

Mental Health Commitments and Psychological Factors

An individual who has been involuntarily confined to a hospital or mental institution for a mental disorder will be disqualified. Voluntary commitments are also grounds for disqualification, unless you have your record expunged.

The expungement process can be complex, time-consuming, and costly. You will likely need to hire a firearm rights attorney to assist with the process.

If you have a history of a psychological condition that would disqualify you, you’ll need to provide medical documentation to clear yourself. Obtaining such documentation can be challenging, as the provider is putting their reputation on the line.

Training, Falsification, and Age Requirements

You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a handgun carry permit in NJ. Failing to complete the required use-of-force training and live-fire component will also result in your application being denied. However, you can reapply once you meet these requirements.

If you provide false information on your application, it will be immediately rejected. You could also face criminal charges and be prohibited from reapplying in the future. Make sure your application is truthful and accurate.

Want to learn more about the application process so you can do things the right way the first time? Check out our free guide: How to Obtain My NJ CCW.

What To Do if Your NJ CCW Application Is Denied

You have 30 days to appeal a gun permit denial. The appeal process involves a formal hearing with the chief of police. A prosecutor then must prove that the denial was justified.

If you are going to file an appeal, you should secure legal representation, especially if you were denied due to issues about essential character requirements or mental health records. Seek legal consultation to explore your options, which may include an expungement or a restoration of rights.

If you haven’t applied yet and believe you meet all of the requirements, there are a few things to do before filling out the Application for Permit to Carry a Handgun. You’ll need to apply for a permit to purchase a handgun/ firearms purchaser identification card. Additionally, you’ll need to complete an approved qualification course at a reputable range, such as WESHOOT.

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