HILTON, N.Y. — Concealed carry pistol permit holders in New York state are required to recertify their permit with state police every three years. That's a big change from what was an every five-year requirement.

Michael Sengillo buys, sells and consigns new and used firearms at his 1791 Guns and Ammo shop in Hilton. He has to be up-to-date on every and all firearm and ammunition rules, regulations and fees.

"Every time you walk in the door to buy ammo, you have to do a background check," said Sengillo.

He does what he can to help customers navigate any weapon registration changes smoothly and that includes concealed carry recertification. A change in the law in 2022 reduced the amount of time your permit is good from five to three years, so if you received the permit in 2022, you are likely up for renewal. 

"People, they do not know what to do or where to go to recertify and then other people are coming in not knowing what to do with the recertification thing," Sengillo said. "So, I help them out and take care of it."

It is the responsibility of the pistol permit holder to recertify online as the state, county clerk or local sheriff's office no longer accepts paper forms for recertification. If you fail to recertify in time, you could lose your pistol permit and have to surrender your firearms.

Pistol permit holders who would like to check their status or recertify online at firearms.troopers.ny.gov.

This system does not process recertifications for New York City, Nassau County, Suffolk County or Westchester County permits. If you currently have a New York City, Nassau County, Suffolk County or Westchester County permit, you must follow the requirements that are in place in your county rather than use this recertification system.