In North Carolina, as was stated in the story about the guy on a bike in nc:
You can only get a handgun permit by applying for one and passing the background check. I applied with the Sheriff's office. It takes at least 30 days due to backlog. It used to take three.
Concealed Carry is also thru the Sheriff's office. Mental health records are checked. You have to take a day long class and pass a test at, in my case, the Sheriff's office. It takes 90 days.
You can buy a handgun the day you get either your permit or the concealed carry license. You can purchase three premits. If you have cc, you can purchase all the handguns you want and are required to recertify every five years.
You don't need a permit for a rifle.
This is what's what in NC as of right now.
I read the stats on those who have either a handgun or cc using them in violent crimes and it's minimal.
Registering for a handgun is lawful and my state respects those who do. It's those who don't we worry about.