As of January 1, 2018, the NYPD License Division will only be accepting on-line applications for handgun licenses, rifle/shotgun permits, and renewals, at the "NYPD Permitting & Licensing" public portal. Applications on paper will no longer be accepted.
Processing Time The background investigation for a pistol permit takes approximately 6 to 12 months but is dependent upon the applicant's diligence and timely submission of documents.
Training Providers (PDF) If you are applying for the Possess on Premises Permit, you must complete a Handgun Safety Course or equivalent, required by the Orange County Licensing Authorities (Judges). If you are applying for the Concealed Carry Permit Course, you must complete the state mandated 18-hour training.
You must be at least 21 years old and complete the proper training administrated by live instruction. An online course is not accepted. There are two choices for a pistol license: Premise License Only and Concealed Carry. If you wish to apply for the premise license, you need to complete the Basic Pistol Safety Course.
Now with that being said in NY state obtaining a pistol permit is not a small hurdle. It's generally not a difficult process for most people it's just long. I would start the handgun process immediately as there is a lot of wait time built into that process.