The following information is specifically designed for IRS Criminal Investigation Retired Special Agents.

Where do I get instructions and an application package?

The application package and instructions are available on irs.gov for your convenience.

Why do I have to provide my FBI record?

If an individual has a criminal record, he/she is prohibited from carrying a concealed weapon.  IRS-CI will not issue retired credentials to any individual who has a criminal record.  

Instructions for obtaining your FBI record are available. 

Why can’t IRS Criminal Investigation run my criminal history?

The databases available to CI may only be used for criminal purposes.  The Department of Justice proposed an exception to the rules for NCIC for this purpose, however an exception has not been granted.

My enforcement credentials were stamped retired and returned to me.  Can’t I just use them instead of applying for the retired credentials?

Per Treasury guidelines and IRM 1.16.6.9(3) canceled pocket commissions may not be used for purposes of identification and may only be used for display purposes.

What happens after IRS-CI receives my application package?

The package will be reviewed to ensure that it contains all the required documents.  Internal checks will be made to ensure there are no adverse personnel actions on file that would render the retiree ineligible to receive the credentials.  Once approved, the retiree will receive a letter with instructions so they may arrange for identity verification and to have their digital photo and signature taken.  IRS-CI’s Equipment and Technology Evaluation (ETE) section will issue the credentials and mail them to the retiree. 

Does the exemption mean I can carry my weapon anywhere at any time?

The new law exempts all qualified active and retired law enforcement officers from State and local laws with respect to the carrying of concealed firearms. These officers are not exempt from Federal law or regulation, which governs the carriage of firearms onto aircraft, Federal buildings, Federal property, and national parks. 

In addition, State (not local) laws which prohibit the carriage of firearms onto State or local government property and State (not local) laws which allow private entities to prohibit firearms on their private property would still apply to qualified active and retired law enforcement officers.

I am a retired officer. How do I qualify to carry under the provisions of this bill?

The legislation requires retired law enforcement officers to meet the active duty standards for qualification with a firearm in the State where they reside or with their former agency. Retired officers must qualify at their own expense and, once they do, will be able to carry the firearm with which they have been qualified under the provisions of this Act.

The State will issue retired officers who have qualified with their firearm a document certifying that the officer has met the State or agency s requirements. Retired officers must carry this documentation in addition to their photographic identification.

Does this bill allow me to carry a firearm on an airplane?

No. This legislation exempts qualified active and retired law enforcement officers from State and local laws regarding the carrying of concealed firearms. Other Federal statutes and airline policy regulate the carriage of firearms on aircraft.

Criminal Investigation (CI)

Information for Retired IRS CI Special Agents