What is a blue card?
Any citizen of the United States and/or lawful resident of this state who is twenty-one (21) years of age or older, and any nonresident member of the United States armed forces, may apply to purchase a pistol or revolver. At the time of application to purchase a pistol or revolver, among other requirements, the applicant must present to the dealer a Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) Pistol/Revolver Safety Certificate (“blue card”).
Where can I take an exam?
The exam is taken right through Tactical Concepts.
Contact us for details and appointment.
Is the blue card the same as the Concealed Carry Permit?
No. The blue card is not equivalent to the Concealed Carry Permit. The Concealed Carry Permit is issued through town halls and the RI Attorney Generals Office.
How can I study for the exam?
The 50-question exam is comprised of multiple choice and true-or-false type questions based on information contained in the study booklet entitled Today’s Handgun Safety Basics" and Rhode Island Firearms Laws. The booklet is available at participating firearm vendors or by emailing the RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife at DEM.DFW@dem.ri.gov. The examination and study booklet is available in Spanish.
- RI Firearms Law
- RI Firearms Law (Spanish)
- Handgun Safety Testing Information
- Handgun Safety Study Guide
After I take the exam, how long does it take to obtain my card?
After completion of the exam, it will be sent to the RIDEM Division of Fish & Wildlife for processing. A score of 80 points or higher is required to pass. More than two (2) cross-off, self-corrections on the test will result in an automatic fail. In the event of a failing score, a notice of failure will be sent instead of a blue card.
The tests are typically processed within one business day after being received from the vendor. It can take a few weeks to travel in the mail. To ensure the quickest possible processing time, please be sure to print your name and mailing address clearly, in block letters on the test answer sheet. Be sure to include an apartment or floor number if applicable.
If it has been more than 3 weeks, you can check the status of your blue card by emailing DEM.DFW@dem.ri.gov
My card is lost/damaged. How can I get a replacement?
In general, records of blue card tests are not kept and you may need to retake the test if you have lost your blue card. If you have a picture or photocopy of your bluecard and need a replacement, you can email the picture to the Division and have a new one mailed to you. Blue cards can be laminated to prevent damage. Contact the RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlife at DEM.DFW@dem.ri.gov to verify if you need to retake a test due to a lost card or to replace a worn blue card.