-Applicant must be a citizen, a naturalized citizen or a resident alien*
-Applicant must be twenty-one (21) years of age
-Must provide proof of residency in Polk County
-Must provide a valid driver's license or other picture ID with current address provided by the state of NC
-Must provide a completed and notarized AOC-SP-917 release form with application (both forms can be downloaded at bottom of page).
The NOTARIZED FORM can be dropped off or mailed to:
Purchase Permits
Polk County Sheriff's Office
164 Government Complex Dr
Columbus, NC 28722
A criminal background check must be performed before granting of permit.
*Resident Aliens should bring resident alien card, social security card and NC driver's license or NC ID card. Naturalized Citizens should bring Naturalization Certificate or valid US Passport.
-Permits to purchase handguns cost $5 (plus $3 online convenience fee) each.
-Applications are accepted and processed Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm (Closed Holidays).
-Permit to purchase a handgun is valid for a period of five (5) years from date of issue.
-Please allow fourteen (14) days for processing of application and criminal background check.
The online application will incur an additional $3.00 convenience fee that is assessed by the third party software vendor. (Please note that this convenience fee is not collected by the Sheriff's Office and is not required for a handgun purchase permit application but is being offered as an added convenience.) If you do not wish to pay online, you may pay in person at the Womack Building - you will still need to complete the online application, a computer is available at the Sheriff's Office if you do not have access to one.
Guns must be carried in plain view. Guns must not be carried in a pocket, purse, under a car seat or in any other concealed manner unless you have a concealed handgun permit.