School me on getting a CCW permit in Philadelphia

[Ophidian]

Hi everyone,

I recently took my Utah class which was offered through the forums here and I have about 30 or so days left before I SHOULD get it in the mail. That being said, I also want to get my Philadelphia CCW permit, but I am not sure as to what I need to do to acquire it.

My record is clean so there shouldn't be any issue with that. What else do I need to do other than have a passport photo (which I already have) a check (which I have) and filled out paperwork (which I don't have).

Any links to forms to fill out, advise for getting my CCW permit in Philadelphia or anything of that nature will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for all your help.

Also, to those of you who were at the Utah class, dont worry, I got a modern production gun for carry. No more 1956 TT33, got a Sig p6 from 1982 :P Almost into the 21st century with my guns! (Ok my Stag AR15 counts as it was made last year)

[General Geoff]

I probably won't be the only one to clarify, but Pennyslvania does not grant CCW permits, only LTCFs (License to Carry Firearms). Aside from a photo ID and filling out a form (with two references IIRC), and a check, just waltz over to the police department, hand in the paperwork, and you should receive your LTCF in the mail within 45 business days.

[Ophidian]

LTCF is basically a CCW right?

Also, is it true you need two people to write a statement that says you aren't crazy and filled with drugs and satan worship essentially?

[normanvin]

There is no CCW. It is a license to carry a firearm.

There is a spot for two references. The sheriff may or may not contact them. You might be able to download the application If you look at your counties website.

[policemedic]

Here's the link for the basic process.
http://www.ppdonline.org/hq_gunpermit.php

This is the link to download your SP-4 Application for LTCF.
http://www.ppdonline.org/hq_downloads.php

Be patient at 990 Spring Garden Street. They don't work too quickly.

Most importantly-
When you get off the elevator, make sure you follow the signs and turn RIGHT. Turning left will lead you into the PPD Advanced Training Unit, and they have no sense of humor about that. None at all.

You wouldn't believe the number of people who don't read the signs and end up traipsing into ATU.

[Philbert]

Does the Philadelphia office call your employer? I've heard that Delaware Co does this.

[Pro2A]

LTCF is basically a CCW right?

Also, is it true you need two people to write a statement that says you aren't crazy and filled with drugs and satan worship essentially?

It permits you to carry firearms. How you do that is up to you.

[gnbrotz]

LTCF is basically a CCW right?

Also, is it true you need two people to write a statement that says you aren't crazy and filled with drugs and satan worship essentially?

Yes and no. It the closest equivalent in PA. In some other states, a "concealed weapons permit" allows you to carry a variety of weapons (not just firearms) that you otherwise are not permitted to carry. PA's LTCF applies only to firearms.

[mjf]

Honestly, I never looked at http://www.ppdonline.org/hq_gunpermit.php before...

Also needed at this time of Renewal or New Application:
<snip>
d. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE FINGERPRINTED.
</snip>

Holy smokes! Do they make fingerprinting a requirement in Philly for a LTCF now?

[Statkowski]

In addition to the SP 4-127 LTCF application form, Philadelphia requires:

• Reference questionnaires. This requirement is neither required nor supported by state law.
• A valid Pennsylvania Drivers License or Non-Drivers ID, along with two (2) acceptable forms of proof of residence, all address must match. This requirement, although not specifically mentioned in state law, might hold up in court.
• Fingerprinting. This requirement is neither required nor supported by state law.
• A DD Form 214 if previously a member of the Armed Forces. This requirement is neither required nor supported by state law.
• References must include PA Driver’s License number. This requirement is neither required nor supported by state law.

So, you have two choices:

• Jump through Philadelphia's hoops, or
• Fill out only the SP 4-127 form, attempt to submit it, get denied, obtain an attorney and file a Writ of Mandamus in Commonwealth Court, forcing Philadelphia to comply with state law (which is supposed to be uniform throughout the commonwealth).