Full Notification

McDowell County Sheriff’s Office Administrative Assistant Robin Withers demonstrates how the new gun permit website works.

Starting Wednesday, applying for gun permits in McDowell will be simpler and more convenient.
The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office is launching a new program called Permitium, which allows citizens to apply and pay for handgun purchase permits and concealed carry permits online.
“We are glad to be able to offer this as an option,” said Sheriff Dudley Greene. “It’s going to be more convenient because a lot of people have scheduling conflicts during work hours. This is another option for them.”
To access the handgun purchase permit application, go to https://mcdowellso.permitium.com and answer all of the questions. By law, there is a $5 charge per permit up to five permits. In addition, Permitium charges a $3 convenience fee to pay online.
To access the concealed carry applications (both new and renewal), go to https:// mcdowellso.permitium.com/ccw/start and answer all of the questions. By law, a concealed carry permit costs $90. Again, Permitium charges a $3 convenience fee to pay online.
All of the fees mentioned above are non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Debit and credit cards can be used online, but payment at the Sheriff’s Office requires cash only.
You will also be able to access the online permits by going to the Sheriff’s Office website at www.mcdowellsheriff.org.
“This is a reputable company,” said the sheriff. “We have been assured that the information is just as secure online as it would be in the office. The company is endorsed by the N.C. Sheriff’s Association, and the system is already being used in some surrounding counties.”
Sheriff’s Office personnel will receive notification that an application has been submitted and will conduct the same criminal and mental background checks as always. You will be able to check on the status of your application at any time and will be notified when you can pick it up. Carry concealed applicants will still be required to call the Sheriff’s Office to set up an appointment to be fingerprinted.
Applications and payments will still be accepted at the Sheriff’s Office Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for those who do not want to use the online version.
If you have questions or for more information, call the Sheriff’s Office at 652-2235.