NYC guide
Reference Letter Sample
What each of your 4 character references must include, and a sample letter you can copy into Word.
What a Reference Needs
The rule: you must submit at least four (4) character references, and two (2) of them must be non-family members (NYC rule 38 RCNY 5-03, amended December 2022). Each must be signed and notarized.
The NYPD offers an Affidavit of Character Reference Form, which can be used instead of a traditional character reference letter. You only need one or the other, not both. In my opinion, the Affidavit of Character Reference asks for extensive information about both the person providing the reference and the applicant. For your convenience, I've included a sample character reference letter below that you can copy, paste, and customize in a Word document.
(if not using the 'affidavit of character reference' form)
Date of letter.
Name, Address, Phone, Email Address of the person writing the Reference.
The number of years they have known you.
A statement like 'the applicant has a good moral character etc.' And a personal statement about the applicant.
Signed and notarized.
Some investigators reach out to the references to verify, others don't. You will need 4 of these; they can be uploaded in one PDF (4 pages). This part can be submitted at a later date. Not required at the time of applying.
The Sample Letter
Live outside New York? On the notary part, use your own state: "State of [State]".
Copy/Paste the Following into a Word Document
[date]
NYPD Gun Licensing Division
1 Police Plaza
Room 110A
New York, NY
RE: Character Reference for [applicant's name]
To Whom It May Concern:
I have personally known [name of applicant] who resides at [complete address of the applicant] for [number of] years. He/she is of good moral character and an upstanding citizen and should be provided with their concealed carry license from the NYPD. He/she can be trusted with such responsibility. [Another personal statement regarding the applicant]. I can be reached at [cell phone number], or via email at [email address] or by the mailing address below my signature.
Sincerely,
[person writing this letter - signature]
[person writing this letter - name]
[person writing this letter - address]
[person writing this letter - city, state, zip]
Notary
State of New York }
County of [County] }
On the ______ day of ___________ in the year 202___
___________________________________________
Notary Signature / Stamp
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