New to the forum...but had read many posts about the process in Dekalb. Thought you'd all be interested in my recent experience on 9/28/11 applying for a GWL.
I had Dekalb County jury duty and decided to see if I could work in applying for my GWL into the day. On an early coffee break, I found the correct room in the basement and had my application completed and paid the cashier inside of 10 mins...closer to 5. Very helpful staff...no waiting at all (weekday morning). I noted that they did NOT request my SSN. They instructed me to go for fingerprinting at the DPD at 3630 Camp Circle. I asked if I needed an appointment for finger printing and they said no. I was released from jury duty around 10am and drove straight to the DPD location. After filling out their form, I waited about 25 mins to be called back. When it approached 11am -- their closing time for lunch -- I assumed they would tell me I had to come back after lunch, but they called me back about 10 after. The detective was pleasant enough, moved me quickly through the digital scan process. There were two scanners set up and two detectives processing prints. When I asked, he told me it would take 4 to 6 weeks to get my GWL.
We'll see if they deliver on that promise. But based on all I've read on this, and other, forums, I had assumed the worse, and was somewhat shocked at how seamless the process was. Maybe the recent suit had the intended effect and they've gotten their act together finally.
Note the following on the DPD website now:
Q: Do you do fingerprinting?
A: Yes. We do fingerprinting for Firearm/Gun permits via the Live Scan system and manual ink fingerprints on cards for other miscellaneous reasons (employment purposes, job applications, private adoptions, etc.). We do NOT do fingerprinting for U.S. Immigration or for items pertaining to the Department of Human Resources (Adult Care, Child Care, State Adoptions, etc.). If you need manual ink prints on cards, you must supply your own cards. You may call the Permits Unit with questions regarding fingerprinting.
Q: Do I need an appointment for fingerprinting?
A: No. Firearm/Gun permit applicants must go to the DeKalb County Probate Court before you are fingerprinted. For all manual ink prints, you must arrive at the Permits office with your cards completed and checked-in before 4:00 p.m.
Q: What do I need to get fingerprints for a gun permit?
A: Photo Identification (Driver’s License or U.S. Passport), Probate Application, and $5.00 dollars cash. U.S. citizens born abroad and applicants that are naturalized U.S. citizens must provide a U.S. Passport or Resident Alien Card, in addition to their Driver’s License.
- Richard
