Applying for Permit to Purchase via Mail or Email

PLEASE NOTE: 
ALL submitted applications will be returned if they are not filled out correctly or if they do not include a legible front and back copy of your state-issued identification card.

  • Only a Minnesota Resident can apply for a Minnesota Permit to Purchase.
  • There is no fee to apply for a Permit to Purchase.
  • You will need to have a current, not expired, Minnesota Driver’s License or Identification Card with current address. If you have renewed your Minnesota State Issued Identification but haven’t received the replacement, you will need to also have your renewal form available.
  • If you intend to purchase a handgun, you must be at least 21 years of age.
  • If you intend to purchase a modern sporting rifle, such as an AR-15, some businesses will require you to have a Permit to Purchase and also be 21 years of age. Businesses have the right to be more selective in their sales.
  • If you live within the city limits of Becker, Big Lake, Elk River, or St. Cloud, you will need to apply with your local police department; all others will need to submit application to the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office.
  • Download and complete a Permit to Purchase application (PDF). 
  • Be sure to include full name and address exactly as shown on your ID. 
  • Do not leave any boxes on the form empty. If a question does not apply to you (i.e. Alias, physical characteristics), please put “N/A’ or “None.”

If you wish to mail the form:

  • You will need to sign and date it in 4 separate locations. 
  • You will need to include a legible copy of the front and back of your Minnesota State Issued identification. 
  • Mail the completed form (signed and dated) and copy of your identification to: Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office, Attn: Gun Permits, 13880 Business Center Dr, Suite 100, Elk River, MN 55330.

If you wish to email the form: 

  • You will need to sign and date it in 4 separate locations. 
  • You will need to include a legible copy of the front and back of your Minnesota State Issued identification. 
  • Email all documentation to permittopurchase@co.sherburne.mn.us.

More Information:

  • Applications are processed in the order they are received.
  • Applications are dependent on a detailed background check. They are normally completed within 7 days.
  • If you are approved, the permit will be mailed to your home address.
  • If you are denied, you will receive a letter via US Mail explaining the reason for the denial.
  • If an application is incomplete or not legible, it will be returned to you for correction and re-submission.
  • A Permit to Purchase is Valid for 1 year only.