Many, including members of Maryland's Handgun Permit Review Board have asked and even speculated about the differences and definitions of a Review vs. a Hearing. Here is what you need to know about the differences between the two.
First, reviews and hearings are defined in the Code of Maryland Regulations. You can click on the links below to read the actual regulations.
The main difference between a review and a hearing is that an applicant can present testimony in person, as well as cross-examine witnesses in a hearing.
Comparison Matrix
| Review | Hearing | |
| Deadline to Apply | Within 10 days of the date the applicant received the Secretary's decision on the applicant's handgun permit | According to State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2 ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE ACT -- CONTESTED CASES |
| Method | In Writing | In Writing |
| Hearing Scheduled | Within 120 Days | |
| Advance Notice | 10 Days | |
| Reschedule Option | Once | |
| Review Criteria | Public Safety Article, §5-312, Annotated Code of Maryland; and COMAR Title 29. | |
| Vote Requirements | A majority vote is necessary to reverse or modify the decision of the Secretary | |