← Back to resources

Georgia Weapons Carry License Application (DPS Form 445): What Gwinnett County Residents Need to Know About Notarization Under O.C.G.A. § 16-11-129

September 19, 2026

If you are a Gwinnett County resident looking to apply for a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL), you will need to submit an official application to the Probate Court. This application, known as DPS Form 445, requires you to provide personal information, answer eligibility questions, and — critically — sign the form under oath. That means notarization is a required step in the process.

What Is the Georgia Weapons Carry License Application?

The Georgia Weapons Carry License Application (DPS Form 445) is the official state form used to apply for a license to carry a concealed firearm in Georgia and in states that offer reciprocity. Administered through county Probate Courts under O.C.G.A. § 16-11-129, the WCL allows eligible Georgians to carry a handgun in states that recognize Georgia's permit.

While Georgia adopted Constitutional Carry (permitless carry) in 2022, a Weapons Carry License remains valuable for reciprocity with other states that still require a permit. A Georgia WCL is valid for five years.

Where to Apply in Gwinnett County

Gwinnett County residents apply for their Weapons Carry License at the Probate Court's Vital Records Division, located at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center:

75 Langley Drive
Lawrenceville, GA 30046

The fee for a new application is 0.00, and applicants must be fingerprinted and undergo a criminal background investigation by the GBI and FBI.

Why Georgia Law Requires Notarization

O.C.G.A. § 16-11-129(a)(1) explicitly states that the probate court judge "shall, on application under oath, on payment of a fee of 0.00, and on investigation of the applicant … issue a weapons carry license."

The phrase "application under oath" means the applicant must swear or affirm, in the presence of a notary public, that all information provided on the application is true and complete. This is accomplished through a jurat — the notarial act where you:

  • Personally appear before the notary public
  • Sign the application in the notary's presence
  • Take an oath or affirmation that the statements are truthful

Georgia law requires this sworn verification to ensure the integrity of the licensing process. False statements on a weapons carry license application can be prosecuted as perjury.

What You Need to Bring

  • A valid Georgia driver's license or state-issued ID showing Gwinnett County residency
  • A completed DPS Form 445 application — do not sign it before appearing before the notary
  • The 0.00 application fee (exact cash or as accepted by your county)
  • A completed FBI fingerprint card (processed on-site at the Probate Court)

Official Resources

Need this document notarized? Find a trusted notary in your area on Notary of Gwinnett.