New York Concealed Carry Reference Letter Guide (With Free Sample Templates)

Written by

Peter Ticali  |  NRA Endowment Life Member · NRA & USCCA Certified Instructor · Licensed Firearms Instructor: NY, MD, DC, MA, UT · NY Pistol License Holder Since 1992

In This Guide

• ‣  Application Checklist — Where Do Letters Fit?
• ‣  What Is a CCW Reference Letter?
• ‣  Who Can Write a Reference Letter?
• ‣  Free Sample Templates
• ‣  Have You Done Your Mandatory Training?
• ‣  FAQ: NY CCW Reference Letters
• ‣  Key Tips for a Strong Letter

Requirements by County

✓  Employers or supervisors

Carry strong professional credibility with licensing officers.

✓  Long-term friends (2+ years)

Must be able to speak to your judgment and character personally.

✓  Community leaders & clergy

Coaches, clergy, and civic leaders carry significant weight.

✓  Neighbors

Speak to your day-to-day conduct and community standing.

Template 1 — Employer Reference

[Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I have known [Applicant's Name] for [X years] in my capacity as [Position]. Throughout this time, I have found them to be honest, reliable, and responsible.

I have no hesitation recommending [Applicant's Name] for a New York State pistol permit and believe they will handle firearms safely and lawfully.

Sincerely,
[Referee's Name]
[Job Title / Employer]
[Phone / Email]

Template 2 — Neighbor / Friend Reference

[Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I have lived near [Applicant's Name] for over [X years]. They have always been respectful, trustworthy, and committed to the safety of our community.

I fully support their application for a New York State concealed carry permit.

Sincerely,
[Referee's Name]
[Address / Contact Information]

Template 3 — Community Leader Reference

[Date]

To Whom It May Concern,

I have known [Applicant's Name] through [church, civic group, volunteer work, etc.] for [X years]. Their character and judgment are beyond reproach.

I believe they are an excellent candidate for a pistol permit.

Sincerely,
[Referee's Name]
[Organization / Position]
[Phone / Email]

Do I need to complete training before getting my reference letters?

Yes. New York requires you to complete an 18-hour CCW training course before your permit application can be submitted. Your training certificate is a required document. We recommend completing training first, then collecting your reference letters as you assemble the rest of your packet.

How many reference letters do I need?

Premises-based licenses typically require 2 reference letters. Concealed carry applications require 4.

Can family members write a reference letter?

Usually no. Most counties require non-relatives. Check your county's current application instructions for specifics.

Do letters need to be notarized?

NYC: Yes. Suffolk and Nassau: Typically yes — check current county guidelines. NY Safe has a NY State Commissioned Notary Public on staff, so if you’re attending class with us, we can help.

Can my boss or coworker write one?

Yes — as long as they know you personally and can speak to your character and judgment.

Where should I apply for my permit?

You apply in the county where you reside. See our guides for NYC, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and Westchester County.

Choose references who have known you at least 2 years.

Ask people with community standing — teachers, clergy, business owners.

Ensure every letter is typed, signed, and dated.

Keep copies of all letters for your own records.

Complete your 18-hour CCW training before you submit — the certificate is a required application document.

About the Author

Peter Ticali — Founder, NY Safe Inc.

NRA Endowment Life Member · NRA & USCCA Certified Instructor · Licensed Firearms Instructor: NY, MD, DC, MA, UT · NY Pistol License Holder Since 1992

Peter Ticali has guided hundreds of New York residents through the pistol permit process. He founded NY Safe Inc. to provide the training, guidance, and support that applicants can't get from paperwork alone.