I had my Massachusetts CCW interview this week and wanted to share a clear rundown for anyone curious about the process. Overall, it was straightforward and professional.  I left NY at 4:30 AM and arrived at 8:30 AM.

There is a visitor parking lot about half a block past the building on the right side. When you go inside the building, you show your ID and let them know you parked in the lot. They will have you sign a log where you list the year, make, model, color, and plate number of your vehicle. There was plenty of parking available. After signing in, you sit and wait for the interviewer to come get you.

My interviewer was a young woman, probably in her mid twenties. The first step was the live scan fingerprint machine. While she supervised, I scanned my own prints. The machine repeatedly flashed “reject” on several fingers, which she explained is common. I had to roll each finger carefully rather than just press down. The cold air makes your skin dry. She mentioned they see this all the time during colder months and lightly sprayed the tips of my fingers with water to help the scanner read them.

After fingerprints, she reviewed my application and verified my responses.The tone was not adversarial at all. 

She explained that processing can take up to 90 days, although it is often quicker. The permit is valid for one year. Renewals can be submitted up to six months before expiration, either through the online portal or by mail. A new card is issued each year, and I likely will not need to return for another interview for renewal.

The entire process was professional, structured, administrative, and surprisingly conversational. The hardest part was the four hour drive there and the five hour drive back to NY.

If anyone has specific questions about the Massachusetts CCW interview process, I am happy to share more details.

My Massachusetts Non Resident CCW Interview Experience