FIREARMS DIVISION
All firearms applications in the State of New Jersey are now on an automated system called F.A.R.S. (Firearms Application & Registration System). This web-based system allows New Jersey residents to complete all necessary paperwork in applying for their Firearms Identification card, Electronic Permit to Purchase a Handgun, and Permit to Carry a Handgun. When completing the online form be sure to enter information accurately, this includes information regarding references and contacts. Any information that isn’t accurate or filled in will possibly lead to a delay in your application. References can include family members.
Once the application is completed, advise your references that they will receive an email and are asked to complete the questionnaire as soon as possible. Once your application is approved, you will be notified via email. Any fees that are owed to the Essex Fells Police Department are to be paid via check made out to Borough of Essex Fells. All NJ Retail Firearms Dealers will be able to execute E-Permits. Your Firearms Identification Card does not expire, permits on the other hand are only valid for 90 days from the date of issue. After 90 days they are automatically renewed for another 90 days. Any other questions can be directed to Sergeant Gomes at pgomes@essexfellspd.org.
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Fee Schedule:
Initial New Jersey Firearms Identification Card - $50.00
New Jersey Permit to Purchase a Handgun & Form of Register - $25.00 (each permit)
Permit to Carry a Handgun – $150.00
Replacement identification card or change of address – No Charge
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Checks are to be made out to “Borough of Essex Fells”
Cash payment is accepted but must be exact amount
Please mail payment to:
Essex Fells Police Department
Attention Firearms Unit
255 Roseland Avenue
Essex Fells, N.J. 07021
Essex Fells Police Firearms Instructors Certifications:
Sgt. Paul Gomes # 193
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Sig Sauer Armorer
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Rifle Instructor
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Ballistic Shield Instructor
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Active Shooter/Mass Killer Response Instructor
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A.L.I.C.E. Instructor
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Remington Armorer
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Colt Armorer
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Simunitions Scenario Instructor
Ofc. Joseph Ficchi # 198
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Sig Sauer Armorer
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Colt Armorer
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Tac Pistol
Essex Fells Firearms FAQ’s:
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1. How do you obtain a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card, Permit to Purchase a Handgun & Form of Register and/or change my address on my firearms identification card ?
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You must apply through your local police department. To apply online utilizing the Firearms Applicant Registration System (FARS) please go to https://www.njportal.com/NJSP/fars . Essex Fells Police ORI Number is NJ0070700.
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2. Where can I pick up my completed Firearms ID card? E-Permit?
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Once your application is completed and approved, you’ll receive an email from NJSP advising of the approval.
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​3. How to obtain an initial/renewal application for a permit to carry a handgun?
MUST READ: CLICK LINKS BELOW
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YOU MUST APPLY via the FARS online system. - In-state resident – apply to your local police department (State Police patrolled areas apply to local Barracks.)
Out of State Resident – apply at a non-toll road State Police Barracks closest to your residence.
Initial Concealed Carry Permit Application:
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SBI Number
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Upload of recent photograph (on a light background including head and shoulders)
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One (1) training record completed within the past two (2) years, instructor name, and qualification date.
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Personal Information: including Social Security Number and Driver's License Number
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Background Information
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For Armored Car Applicants: Uploaded Employment Letter
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Contact Information for four (4) non-family related references.
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Information on handguns to be carried.
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$200 Application Fee. ($50.00 payable to the New Jersey State Police as well as an additional $150.00 fee paid directly to the municipality)
Renewal Concealed Carry Permit Application:
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SBI Number, Last Name, and Date of Birth for validation
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One (1) training record completed within the past two (2) years, instructor name, and qualification date.
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Any updates to Personal Information
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Upload of recent photograph (on a light background including head and shoulders)
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Background Information
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Any updates to Handgun Information
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$200 Application Fee ($50.00 payable to the New Jersey State Police as well as an additional $150.00 fee paid directly to the municipality)
** ALL APPLICANTS (INITIAL AND RENEWAL) FOR A PERMIT TO CARRY A HANDGUN MUST BE FINGERPRINTED.
** A NEW JERSEY PERMIT TO CARRY IS VALID FOR TWO (2) YEARS FROM TIME OF APPROVAL.
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4. How do I make an appointment to get fingerprinted?
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5. Can a minor have access to a loaded firearm?
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No, under NJSC 2C:58-15;
a. A person who knows or reasonably should know that a minor is likely to gain access to a loaded firearm at a premises under the person's control commits a disorderly person’s offense if a minor gains access to the firearm, unless the person:
(1) Stores the firearm in a securely locked box or container;
(2) Stores the firearm in a location which a reasonable person would believe to be
secure; or
(3) Secures the firearm with a trigger lock.
b. This section shall not apply:
(1) To activities authorized by section 14 of P.L.1979, c.179, (C.2C:58-6.1), concerning the lawful use of a firearm by a minor; or
(2) Under circumstances where a minor obtained a firearm as a result of an unlawful entry by any person.
c. As used in this act, "minor" means a person under the age of 16.
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Firearms Safety Rules:
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ALWAYS Keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
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ALWAYS Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
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ALWAYS Keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
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Know your target and what is beyond it.
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Use only the correct ammunition for your gun.
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Be sure the gun is safe to operate.
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Never use alcohol, over-the-counter drugs or prescription drugs before or while shooting.
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Store guns so they are not accessible to unauthorized persons.
