Pistol Permits
Pistol Permit Office
The Pistol Permit Office is located at the Genesee County Clerk's Office, 15 Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.
NYS Pistol Permit Recertification
Pistol permit recertifications are mandatory under the New York State SAFE Act and are managed by the New York State Police, not the County Clerk. Recertification must be completed online every three years. Visit the NYS Police website for more information.
To Apply for a Pistol Permit
Residents of Genesee County aged 21 or older (or honorably discharged from the military with no age restriction) may obtain a pistol permit application packet from our office for $5.00. The application process involves multiple steps, so please carefully review all instructions provided in the packet.
Pistol Permit Fees
- Application Packet: $5.00
- Submit Completed Application: $20.00
- Duplicate Permit (Paper to Plastic): $18.00
- Duplicate Permit (Existing Plastic Card): $11.00
- Amendments: $3.00
- Plastic Card Fee: $3.00
- Transfer Fee (into or out of County): $5.00 + $6.00
- Pistol Permit Photo: $7.00
- Gun Dealer or Gunsmith License: $10.00 each
When Visiting Our Office
When processing a transaction, please bring your pistol permit and additional identification, typically a driver’s license. Notify our office within 30 days of selling a handgun so your permit can be updated.
Forms Available
Registration of Handguns
Register handguns purchased from individuals or dealers by providing required proof of purchase. Amendments require clear documentation for processing.
Co-Ownership of Handguns
Effective January 27, 2022, co-registration transitioned to co-ownership, allowing up to two co-owners per handgun, restricted to Genesee County permit holders.
Handling Changes
- Death of Permit Holder
- Name, Address, or County Change
- Moving Out-of-State
Ensure prompt notification and compliance with all applicable regulations to maintain permit validity.
Lost or Stolen Permit
Report lost, stolen, or mutilated permits immediately to obtain a duplicate permit.
Certificate of Non-Destruction
Follow established procedures for registering handguns found or obtained under non-criminal circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many handguns am I allowed to have registered on my license?
There is no limit on the number of handguns you may register to your license.
Am I required to notify your office if I move?
Yes. You must notify our office of a change of address within 10 days.
What if I move out of the county?
You must notify the office within 10 days. You may choose to keep your records with Genesee County or transfer them to the county where you now reside.
What if I move out of the state?
Your license is only valid in New York State. You should voluntarily surrender your license if you move out of state. If you return to New York, reinstatement may be possible.
What should I do if my handgun is lost or stolen?
Report it to the police immediately. If the firearm is later used in a crime, authorities will contact the registered owner. Firearms should always be stored safely with appropriate locking devices and ammunition stored separately.
I found a handgun. What should I do?
If you find a handgun, surrender it to the Sheriff’s Department. A Certificate of Non-Destruction may be requested so the firearm can potentially be registered to a licensed permit holder after judicial review.
Can I carry my handgun anywhere?
Genesee County pistol permits are issued unrestricted, meaning licensees may carry where permitted by law. However, New York Penal Law §265.01 prohibits firearms in certain sensitive locations. Always verify that firearms are permitted before carrying.
How can I upgrade my permit to “Unrestricted”?
If your older permit contains restrictions such as “Sport/Recreation,” you may visit the County Clerk’s Office and request removal of the restriction. If records are verified and current, a new unrestricted permit can be issued.
How do I register a handgun purchased from another state?
Handguns purchased outside New York must be transferred from a federal firearms dealer (FFL) in that state to an FFL in New York. The New York dealer will complete a background check and issue a dealer receipt. Bring that receipt to the County Clerk’s Office to add the handgun to your permit before taking possession.