Just moved to NJ from another state where we have hardly any restrictions on purchase other then federal. I’m not even going to bother with the permit, but would like to have a single handgun, just to keep in the house. From my research am I correct in understanding that I would need to provide two(2) references on the application. I can only think of one person who I would be comfortable to ask for something like that. Does this limitation leaves me out in the cold as far as being a gun owner in NJ?
Welcome to NJ Gun Forums!
Here in NJ those be the rules. I’m not a fan. It’s 2 people and I don’t think they need to be in NJ. (Someone here correct me if I am wrong on that but one of my buddies mentioned he may be moving soon but I could still use him as a reference. I did not verify or try that yet though.)
Welcome @joyous.alameda both to NJ and to NJ Gun Forums.
To confirm, you’re contemplating applying for a Handgun Purchase Permit, but not a NJ Firearms ID Card (FID), correct?
That’s fine and legal, however I’d recommend that you consider applying for an FID also at the same time. With an FID you get at least 3 benefits (I’m sure there’s more I’m not immediately remembering):
1 - You can buy ammo (especially handgun ammo) in NJ. Yeah, you can probably get by with ordering ammo via mail order, but there may come a time when you need ammo quick/at the moment; The FID will be required for that.
2 - An FID is still considered by a lot of NJ police to be “evidence that you are not a prohibited person”. If you’re ever in a situation where your legal ability to possess a handgun is in question the FID can be a “quick out”.
3 - An FID is a requirement for membership in many private ranges/shooting clubs. If you decide you want to join a particular private range/shooting club you’d need to have an FID.
To directly answer your question, yes, a NJ handgun purchase permit requires 2 references who are not relatives.
I’m sorry for your loss.
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I am applying for anything that would allow me to purchase a pistol and keep it in the house. 
Looks like the two person reference requirement would stop me from that.
You will need a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card and a Handgun Purchase permit.
If you don’t know 2 people to vouch for you, you are outta luck.
It’s a feature not a flaw. All part of the process to discourage you from exercising your constitutional rights. Welcome to NJ.
Or as many of us refer to this state THE GLORIOUS PEOPLES REPUBLIK OF NEW JERSEYSTAN
You can use a relative now on the application, used my sister with same last name on my last three permits, and before that I would use my wife, not to sure about the out of state though.
Just checked, I have been using my wife since 2021 as a reference.
Out of state references are good to go as long as they have email.
NJ is a disgrace! I recently purchased my first handgun in a long time, and it cost me $48 and took a couple of months to get a permission slip. After that, I still had to undergo a NICS check and wait a few days before I could pick up the gun.
Out of state is fine, I’ve been using the same one for years
References are particular thorn in my side. Needing four (unrelated by blood or law) prevents me from getting a permit to carry. Last time I got permits to purchase, I was still working and asked a friend at work. Oh geez, the questions…”What are going to DO with a gun?! Why do you NEED one?! Will I be liable if you shoot someone?! Will I have to talk to the police?!”. 
Oh, for Chrissakes, nevermind…
Here’s an idea, meet me at a local bar, buy me a few beers, and we’ll shoot the shit for awhile. After a few drinks I’ll form an opinion of you. Then you can use me as a reference.
Hahaha, just kidding.
But seriously you’re going to hate NJ. If it’s fun and not illegal yet just give it a minute, it will be
Get out and start shooting local matches. You will meet like minded folks and won’t have to worry about whether they think guns are scary.
Most will even encourage you to get more.
I submitted my carry permit renewal today and the first reference responded within a minute. The slowest one took an hour and 8 minutes because he spends most Saturdays driving his daughter to gymnastics events.
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