PISTOL PERMITS

Jefferson-County-Sheriff-Department-Alabama---Pistol-Permit

Who may obtain a Pistol License?

Alabama State Code states that the Sheriff of a county shall issue a qualified or unlimited license to a person residing in the county, and is a suitable person to be licensed. Mark Pettway is the Sheriff of Jefferson County. You must be 19 years of age or older to obtain a pistol permit.

Who may not obtain a pistol license?

The sheriff may deny a permit application if a determination has been made that the person is prohibited from the possession of a pistol or firearm pursuant to state or federal law, or has a reasonable suspicion that the person may use a weapon unlawfully or in such other manner that would endanger the person’s self or others. In making such determination, the sheriff may consider whether the applicant:

  • Registered sex offenders will not be issued pistol permits regardless of whether the offense committed was a misdemeanor or a felony.
  • Was found guilty but mentally ill in a criminal case.
  • Was found not guilty in a criminal case by reason of insanity or mental disease or defect.
  • Was declared incompetent to stand trial in a criminal case.
  • Asserted a defense in a criminal case of not guilty by reason of insanity or mental disease or defect.
  • Was found not guilty only by reason of lack of mental responsibility under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
  • Required involuntary inpatient treatment in a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility.
  • Required involuntary outpatient treatment in a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility based on a finding that the person is an imminent danger to himself or herself or to others.
  • Required involuntary commitment to a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility for any reason, including drug use.
  • Is or was the subject of a prosecution or of a commitment or incompetency proceeding that could lead to a prohibition on the receipt or possession of a firearm under the laws of Alabama or the United States.
  • Falsified any portion of the permit application.
  • Has caused justifiable concern for public safety.
  • If you are not eligible to receive a pistol permit your permit fee may not be refunded.

How long does the application process take?

The Sheriff’s Office will issue or deny a Pistol License Application within 30 days of receipt of a completed application.

If denied a Pistol License, can I appeal the denial?

Yes, applicants denied a pistol license will be informed in writing by the Sheriff’s Office of the denial.  The applicant will then have 30 days to file an appeal with the District Court of Jefferson County.

What are the age requirements to obtain a pistol permit?

It is the policy that a license will not be issued to anyone under the age of 18.

May a pistol License be revoked?

Yes, Title 13A-11-75 of the State Law states that the Sheriff may revoke a license.

Is the license valid in other counties?

Yes, Title 13A-11-75 of the State Law states the license is valid within all the counties of the state.

How can a pistol license be renewed?

Apply Online or bring your old pistol license, along with $7.50 per year, to one of our offices. Make checks payable to: Mark Pettway, Sheriff.

Sheriff’s Headquarters
2200 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd
Birmingham, AL 35203

Bessemer Sheriff’s Office
1826 2nd Avenue North
Bessemer, AL 35020.

Center Point Sheriff’s Substation
2651 Center Point Road
Center Point, AL 35215

Hoover Satellite Courthouse
1901 Hoover Ct
Hoover, AL 35226

Gardendale Satellite Courthouse
651 Main Street
Gardendale, AL 35071

What is the cost of a Pistol License?

1 Year:  $  7.50
2 Years: $15.00
3 Years:  $22.50
4 Years: $30.00
5 Years: $37.50

Where do you obtain an application for a Pistol Permit?

Veterans/active duty military personnel (18 years or older) are eligible to receive a pistol permit at no cost. They must apply in person with proof of veteran/military status in order to qualify.

Persons born outside the United States must apply in person.

Sheriff’s Headquarters
2200 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd
Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 325-5728

Bessemer Sheriff’s Office
1826 2nd Avenue North
Bessemer, AL 35020
(205) 481-4201

Center Point Sheriff’s Substation
2651 Center Point Road
Center Point, AL 35215
(205) 856-8800

Hoover Satellite Courthouse
1901 Hoover Ct
Hoover, AL 35226
(205) 909-3959

Gardendale Satellite Courthouse
651 Main Street
Gardendale, AL 35071
(205) 909-3833

Office Hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday

Will I be investigated if I make an application to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office for a pistol license?

Yes, we will perform an investigation to see if you have a previous arrest record or any other factor that would prohibit issuing you a permit.