Welcome to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners

 

Firearm permit appeals in Connecticut

The Board of Firearms Permit Examiners (BFPE) reviews appeals for pistol permits. We review cases where a permit was denied, revoked, or delayed. We hold hearings and make decisions based on the facts of each case, state law, and permit suitability requirements.

We do not issue permits, process applications, or give advice. Your local police department handles these tasks. The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) can also assist.

If your permit was denied, revoked, or delayed, you can file an appeal or check your hearing status. For other requests, we can help direct you to the right agency.

This page explains the appeals process, how to file an appeal, and what to expect at a hearing. You can also find contact information and related resources.

File an appeal for a denied, revoked, or delayed permit  

Check your hearing date or find the right service

 

Review the active hearing agenda

Find upcoming hearing dates and check the status of your case. Hearing schedules can change as cases are withdrawn or resolved. Check the schedule regularly to confirm your hearing date.
 

What we do and do not do

Learn what BFPE handles and where to go for permit renewals, new applications, or firearm laws. We can also help you find the right agency for your request.
 

Find the right agency for your request

The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) offers many services. These include renewing permits, firearm laws, storage rules, and eligibility certificates. New permit applications go through your local police department.

The Board of Pardons and Paroles handles pardon requests. For confiscated firearms, please contact the agency that took them.

Use our guide to find the right service and get the support you need.

Find the right agency for your firearm-related request  
 

Are you a town or law enforcement agency?

We work with issuing authorities on appeal cases. Use the Issuing Authority Questionnaire when a case is under review and information is needed before a hearing.

The questionnaire is used to collect key details such as permit history, reasons for denial or revocation, and supporting documents.

Submit the form before the hearing. This helps keep the case on track and prevent delays.

Find the Issuing Authority Questionnaire form  

Hearing information and related services

Use these resources to find past hearings or access services related to your case.


Find past hearings on CT‑N 

Review recordings of hearings to know how appeal cases progress. Use these to help you prepare for your hearing and know what to expect.

Get information about pardons 

Learn how the pardon process works and what steps to follow. Use this resource if your record may affect your firearm permit.