Permit to Purchase Firearms

Applications for a permit to purchase can be dropped off at the St. Cloud Police Department or your local police department. If you are a Stearns County resident who does not live within a city jurisdiction (i.e. township), or those who live in a city which does not have its own police department, please apply at the Stearns County Sheriff's Office. The Application for Permit to Purchase a Firearm is available online from the MN Department of Public Safety. 


As of August 1, 2023:

A Permit to Purchase is required for most private firearm transfers. The purchaser is responsible for obtaining a Permit to Purchase by utilizing the process outlined below. In addition to needing a Permit to Purchase for the private transfer, both the seller and buyer must fill out the Private Party Transfer Form and retain a copy of the form for 10 years. Additional information and the required form can be found on the BCA's website.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Apply in person or by mail - must attach a legible colored copy of photo ID if mailing in application
  • Be at least 18 years of age and a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
  • Provide photo ID (driver's license, state photo identification card or valid passport with photo)
  • Submit a completed Application for Permit to Purchase a Firearm
No fee

Applications are accepted:

St. Cloud Police Department
101 11th Avenue North
St. Cloud, MN 56303

Phone: 320-251-1200

Background Check

We will conduct a series of background-related checks to assure you meet the eligibility requirements established by state law. Once those checks are successfully completed, a permit will be issued that is valid for one year and may be used to purchase firearms statewide. For additional information and restrictions refer to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety/Bureau of Criminal Apprehension website.

Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Excluding federal holidays)