In most states, the requirements for obtaining a handgun license, commonly known as a "blue card," are that you are 21 years of age or older and have passed your state's requisite gun-safety exam. Private institutions offer preparation for the exam, but you can also study with a basic handgun safety course guide. However, if you have a criminal record, in most states you will be unable to acquire handgun licensing. Along with your application, you will need recent photos of your head and face, a copy of your state or federal identification card and your social security card.
Rhode Island
Step 1
Complete a certified firearms safety course or review the "Set Your Sights on Handgun Basics" study guide. The safety exam contains multiple choice and true-or-false questions from the information covered in "Set Your Sights on Handgun Basics" (see first listing in Resources below).
Step 2
Sign up for the Rhode Island handgun-safety exam at a certified Department of Environmental Management (DEM) location. Most firearms dealers and sporting goods stores administer the exam. The exam is also available in Spanish.
Step 3
Apply for the blue card online at Rhode Island's DEM website (see Resources below), or you can find the application at your local police station. You will need a copy of your state or federal identification card for the application.
Read More: How to Get a Blue Card in Rhode Island
California
Step 1
Purchase or download online the California Handgun Safety Certificate (HSC) booklet (see Resources). It is required to have a copy of this booklet to receive a blue card in California.
Step 2
Enroll in the California state Department of Justice's (DOJ) written test on handgun safety. The DOJ has testing available at most firearm dealerships.
Step 3
Complete the blue-card application online or at your local police station (see Resources). You will need a copy of your state or federal license to complete the application.
Texas
Step 1
Collect your personal information: social security number, U.S. identification card number, current address and information regarding your criminal record or past drug use. You will also need a credit card number to pay the application fee.
Step 2
Apply for the blue card online at the Texas Department of Public Safety's website (see Resources below).
Step 3
Renew your blue card at the Texas Department of Safety's website, as well.