oh yeah, ny and cali are the toughest states. gotta get 4 written recommendations from citizens of your county, take nra course, they wont do back ground check til course is complete and recommendations are mailed back (its about a 4 month wait to get into the course). In my county (saratoga) its about a 2 month turn around once all steps are complete to receive permit. so i should see mine by mid april if all goes well.