Gun laws in the United States by state

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

13A-11-75

Alabama is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 19 years or older.Permitless concealed carry for residents 18 years or older took effect on January 1, 2023.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

13A-11-7

May carry openly without permit, except handgun must be secured in a holster.

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

13A-3-23

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

13A-11-61.3

"...the Legislature hereby occupies and preempts the entire field of regulation in this state touching in any way upon firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories..."

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

13A-11-54

It is illegal to carry an Any Other Weapon (AOW) disguised as a walking cane.

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

AS 11.61.220AS 18.65.700

Alaska is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 21 years or older.Permitless carry took effect on September 9, 2003.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

May carry openly without permit.

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

AS 29.35.145

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

Castle Doctrine / Stand your ground law?

Yes

Yes

AS 11.81.330

"A person who is justified in using nondeadly force in self-defense may use deadly force in self-defense upon another person when and to the extent, the person reasonably believes the use of deadly force is necessary for self-defense against death; serious physical injury; kidnapping except for what is described as custodial interference in the first degree in AS 11.41.320; sexual assault in the first degree; sexual assault in the second degree; sexual abuse of a minor in the first degree; or robbery in any degree."

Shall certify?

Yes

Yes

AS 18.65.810

Shall certify within 30 days.

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

Duty to inform?

Yes

Yes

AS 11.61.220(a)(1)(A)(i)

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

A.R.S. § 13-3108

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

A.R.S. § 13-3102A.R.S. § 13-3112

Arizona is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 21 years or older.Permitless carry took effect on July 29, 2010.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

May carry openly without permit.

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

A.R.S. §§ 13-401 to 13-421

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

A.R.S. § 13-3108

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

Shall certify?

Yes

Yes

A.R.S. § 13-3121

Shall certify within 60 days.

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

A.R.S. § 44-1382

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

AR Code § 5-73-120AR Code §§ 5-73-301 to 5-73-320

Arkansas is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 21 years or older. Regular and Enhanced permits are issued. Enhanced permits are issued to those who complete a training course.Permitless carry took effect on August 16, 2013.Enhanced concealed carry permits allow for carrying in some areas such as carrying at public colleges, most public buildings, non-secure locations in airports, churches, and more.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

AR Code § 5-73-120

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

AR Code §§ 5-2-601 to 5-2-621

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

AR Code § 14-16-504

NFA weapons restricted?

Yes

No

AR Code § 5-73-207

Machine guns may not fire pistol cartridges of .30 in. or 7.63 mm or larger unless the gun is registered to an ammunition corporation.

Shall certify?

Yes

Yes

AR Code § 5-73-112

Shall certify within 15 days.

Peaceable Journey laws?

Yes

Yes

AR Code § 5-73-120

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

Duty to inform?

Yes

Yes

State permit required to purchase?

Partial

Partial

§26500

All firearm sales must be completed through a dealer. Firearm purchases require a Firearm Safety Certificate and proof of residency unless the individual purchasing the firearm is active duty military, honorably retired military, or a peace officer under Penal Code Section 830. Military reservists must provide proof of residency in order to purchase a firearm. The Firearms Safety Certificate can be purchased and completed at firearms dealers with DOJ instructors on the same day, differentiating it from a FOID or FID card system where one has to apply with the local police and await approval. Must be 21 to purchase any firearm.

Firearm registration?

Yes

Yes

§28150

The California Department of Justice ("DOJ") retains information about the purchaser and seller of all in-state firearm sales and transfers, and requires that any firearms imported into the state be reported to the DOJ. Furthermore, the Attorney General is required by law to maintain a registry containing the fingerprints and identifying information of the transferee, and the unique identifying information of every firearm transferred in the state, pursuant to §11106. All handgun serial numbers and sales are recorded by the state in the Department of Justice's Automated Firearms System, along with those of many long guns. While there is no requirement for California residents to register handguns owned prior to 1991 with law enforcement, §12025 and §12031 enhance several misdemeanor offenses to felonies if the handgun is not on file in the Department of Justice's Automated Firearms System. New residents must register handguns (purchased outside of California) with DOJ within 60 days. As of January 1, 2014[update], long gun serial numbers are also recorded, whereas previously only the sale was recorded. However, it is not required that owners of long guns purchased prior to 2014 register their firearms and it is not a crime to be in possession of an unregistered firearm.

Owner license required?

No

No

None

While the Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) is required for new purchases of firearms, ongoing possession of a firearm does not require a license or permit. People moving into California are required, within 60 days, to file a New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership. New residents are prohibited from importing assault weapons or any other weapons prohibited by California law regardless of whether they were lawfully acquired and possessed in the residents' prior state of residence. The ban on importing large-capacity magazines was ruled unconstitutional but the ruling is on hold while the case is under appeal.

Assault weapon law?

Yes

Yes

§30500, §30515

Illegal to possess, import, or purchase assault weapons and .50 BMG rifles, unless such weapons were acquired by the owner prior to June 1, 1989. While California's Assault Weapons Law does allow individuals who hold a Dangerous Weapons Permit to obtain, transport or possess defined assault weapons, the DOJ generally does not issue Dangerous Weapons Permits to ordinary citizens. Legally defined assault weapons and .50 BMG rifles listed by make and model by the DOJ must be registered. Their sale and transfer is prohibited. Military look-alike rifles that are not chambered for .50 BMG and are not on the DOJ roster are legal to purchase or possess, with some restrictions in configuration – known as "banned features". Any active duty military personnel may apply for a Department of Justice (DOJ) Assault Weapon Permit to use personal assault weapons in military sanctioned activities during the course of permanent stationing in the State of California while on active military duty. The firearms must be registered with the California Department of Justice prior to the servicemember's arrival in California by submitting the registration form with a copy of the member's Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders and an authorization letter from the installation commander. With the passage of Senate Bill 880 and Assembly Bill 1135 in June 2016, the state's assault weapon ban has been expanded to include all semi-automatic center-fire rifles and shotguns that have a "bullet button" detachable magazine; effectively repealing a prior law that made "bullet button" magazines required on all newly manufactured weapons with detachable magazines. The sale or transfer of such weapons will be prohibited, effective January 1, 2017. Those purchased prior to January 1, 2017 must be registered with the DOJ by the start of 2018. The definition of types of weapons that are banned has been expanded, the exact definitions should be reviewed at the California DOJ website.

Magazine capacity restriction?

Yes

Yes

§32310

Section 32310 of the Penal Code states that any person who manufactures or causes to be manufactured, imports into the state, keeps for sale, or offers or exposes for sale, or who gives, lends, buys, receives, or assembles any large-capacity magazine from a parts kit is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year or imprisonment. Thus, the offenses listed can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor at the discretion of the prosecutor. Large-capacity is defined as being able to hold more than 10 rounds. In November 2016 California voters approved Proposition 63. The referendum outlaws the possession of such magazines, requires background checks for all ammunition sales and mandates the reporting of lost or stolen firearms. Under Proposition 63, any person who possesses a large-capacity magazine is guilty of an infraction punishable by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100) per large-capacity magazine, or is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100) per large-capacity magazine, by imprisonment in a county jail not to exceed one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment.This prohibition applies to magazines acquired prior to January 1, 2000 that were previously considered "grandfathered." Importation, manufacture, lending, assembling a large-capacity magazine from a parts kit, or buying a large-capacity magazine remains chargeable as a felony or a misdemeanor. On June 29, 2017, a federal judge blocked the enforcement of Proposition 63's ban on the possession of large-capacity magazines, pending the outcome of litigation concerning the ban. Magazines that would have been subject to the Proposition 63 ban are legal for private citizens to keep until the injunction is either lifted and/or the ban is upheld by the courts. On March 29, 2019, the entire large-capacity magazine law was blocked permanently by the district court; this includes the ban on possession, in addition to the ban on manufacturing, importing, selling, etc. Following a stay request from Attorney General, Judge Benitez allowed the ban on manufacture, import, and sale of large-capacity magazines to be enforced while keeping in place the injunction against the enforcement of the ban on possession of previously legal large-capacity magazines, including all purchases made between the entry of the Court’s injunction on March 29, 2019 and April 5, 2019, 5:00 p.m. On August 14, 2020, a 9th circuit court ruled the ban on high capacity magazines unconstitutional. "Gun owners cannot immediately rush to buy high-capacity magazines because a stay issued by the lower court judge remains in place," according to the Associated Press. However, this decision was vacated by the Circuit Court on February 25, 2021 until the case can be reheard. Duncan v. Bonta was heard en banc by the Ninth Circuit Court on June 22, 2021. The en banc Court overturned the lower appellate panel in its ruling, holding that California's regulation of firearms did not violate the 2nd Amendment.

License required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

§26150

"May issue," per Attorney General's directive after Supreme Court's decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen.[citation needed] CCW permits valid statewide. Out-of-state permits not valid in California. On December 4, 2023, a lawsuit challenging California's laws forbidding nonresidents' concealed carry permits and nonresidents from obtaining California's CCW permit got filed.

Open carry allowed?

Partial

Partial

§26350

Long guns and handguns may be openly carried in unincorporated rural areas where firearm discharge is not prohibited by local ordinance. In a county with a population of less than 200,000 residents, a permit to carry a handgun "loaded and exposed" may be issued by the county sheriff, valid only in the issuing county. A person may also open carry if he or she "reasonably believes that any person or the property of any person is in immediate, grave danger and that the carrying of the weapon is necessary for the preservation of that person or property."

Vehicle carry?

No

Yes

§25610

A valid California Concealed Weapons License is required to carry a concealed handgun in a motor vehicle. Otherwise, handguns and assault weapons must be unloaded and locked in a case during transport. Long guns not classified as assault weapons may be transported in a vehicle without being locked in a case, but must be unloaded.

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

§53701 Government Code Archived July 12, 2011, at the Wayback Machine

Most but not all local restrictions preempted.

Castle doctrine law?

Yes

Yes

California never requires a duty to retreat whether in one's own home or not. The state acknowledges a legal presumption that an intruder poses a deadly threat if in one's own home or property that is owned and controlled by oneself.

NFA weapons restricted?

Yes

Yes

§12220, §12020, §12020 §18710, §32625, §33215, §33410

Possession of automatic weapons or short-barreled shotguns or rifles prohibited without DOJ "Dangerous Weapons Permit"; permission rarely granted outside of film industry. Suppressors (aka silencers) prohibited. Destructive devices are prohibited unless are designated as curios & relics, in which case a collectors permit can be obtained. The only AOWs that are permitted are smoothbore pistols and firearms with a combination of a smoothbore and rifle barrel. C&R short-barreled rifles and C&R short-barrled shotguns permitted.

Peaceable journey laws?

No

No

California courts have ruled that large-capacity magazines (LCM) that are disassembled or LCM parts are legal to possess. Otherwise federal rules are observed.

Waiting period?

Yes

Yes

§26815(a), §26950-27140 , §27540(a) , §27600-27750

California has a ten (10) day waiting period for all firearm purchases, transfers, and private sales which must be conducted through a federal and state firearm license holder. That is, upon purchase, the purchaser must wait 10 days after the purchase before the firearm is released to the owner. On August 25, 2014, the California's 10-day waiting period for gun purchases was ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California which found that "the 10-day waiting periods of Penal Code [sections 26815(a) and 27540(a)] violate the Second Amendment" as applied to members of certain classifications (notably holders of concealed carry permits) and "burdens the Second Amendment rights of the Plaintiffs". On December 14, 2016 this ruling was overturned by a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The plaintiffs' petition for an en banc rehearing was denied April 4, 2017; on February 20, 2018 the Supreme Court certiorari petition was denied, meaning that the waiting period remains in effect. On May 1, 2023, a new lawsuit challenging the ten-day waiting period was filed.

Background checks required for private sales?

Yes

Yes

§ 27545

Private party transfers of firearms must be conducted through a licensed dealer, who is required by federal law to conduct a background check and keep a record of the sale.

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

The police or a person's family member can ask a judge to confiscate the firearms of a person who appears to pose a threat to themselves or others for up to one year. Such orders from out-of-state are also recognized. As of September 1, 2020, eligible petitioners will be expanded to include an employer, coworker, and school teacher or employee, and the maximum allowable duration will be extended to 5 years.

Background check required for ammunition purchase?

Yes

Yes

PC 30312, 30314, 30342, 30370

After January 1, 2018 all ammunition purchases must be made through a licensed ammunition dealer and no person may import ammunition from out-of-state unless they meet the requirements for exemption under PC 30314(b). This section effectively banned online and mail order sales of ammunition by requiring all transactions go through a storefront physically located inside California. Importing ammunition in violation of this section is an infraction for the first offense and a misdemeanor or infraction for any subsequent offenses. After July 1, 2019, all purchases of ammunition are required to have an "ammunition purchase authorization" from the California DOJ. This section requires the ammunition purchaser to submit to a background check and to have an entry in the California DOJ Automated Firearms System that matches the information presented at the time of purchase. Selling or delivering ammunition to a person without first receiving the "ammunition purchase authorization" is a misdemeanor. Background check was struck down by judge in Jan 2024. However, the 9th Circuit granted a stay to his injunction.

Home-built firearms restriction?

Yes

Yes

PC 29180, 29010

After July 1, 2018, any person who wishes to manufacture a firearm must first apply to the California DOJ for a serial number and apply that serial number, once issued, to the firearm within 10 days. There are specific requirements laid out for how to inscribe or engrave the serial number given the material the firearm is made out of. Violation of this provision is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in the county jail for home-built handguns and 6 months in the county jail for any other home-built firearm. In June 2022, California passed AB 1621, which bans the use of CNC milling machines for self-manufacturing firearms. On September 26, 2023, the restrictions were expanded to forbid people without a license to have 3-D printers "that has the sole or primary function of manufacturing firearms", and to allow civil actions against people who distribute "any code or digital instructions to a specified person for the manufacture of a firearm using a three-dimensional printer or CNC milling machine." Starting January 1, 2024, a person cannot manufacture more than 3 firearms within the state in a calendar year without a license.

Purchase quantity and frequency restriction?

Yes

Yes

PC 27535

As of January 1, 2024, no person is allowed to purchase more than one firearm, which includes completed frames and receivers and firearm precursor parts, within any 30-day period. Starting January 1, 2025, all private party transactions except with some exemptions will be subject to the 1-in-30 restriction. On March 11, 2024, Judge William Q. Hayes declared that the 1-in-30 law as applied to handguns and semi-automatic centerfire rifles violates the Second Amendment.

Transfer quantity and frequency restriction?

Yes

Yes

PC 16730

As of January 1, 2020, no person without a license is allowed to make 6 or more firearm transactions (sale, lease, or transfer) per calendar year, regardless of the type of firearm, and no person is allowed to sell, lease, or transfer more than 50 total firearms per calendar year within those transactions.

State permit required to purchase?

No*

No*

mw- .mw- Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-116

Effective August 1st, 2026, it is unlawful to buy or sell "specified semiautomatic firearms" unless having obtained a Firearm Safety Course Eligibility Card and then completed a "basic firearms safety course" and/or an "extended firearms safety course". "Specified semiautomatic firearms" includes most semiautomatic firearms.

Firearm registration?

No

No

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 29-11.7-102

Semi-automatic rifles

No*

No*

DRMC § 38-130

No state law prohibiting sale or possession of Semi-automatic firearms, but with the repeal of Colorado's statewide firearm preemption law in 2021, local restrictions or prohibitions on semi-automatic may exist. Denver ordinance bans "assault weapons" (Most semi-auto rifles with more than 21 round magazines). Vail banned "assault weapons" in 1994. Boulder city passed such an ordinance in May 2018.[failed verification]

Magazine capacity restriction?

Yes

Yes

Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 18-12-302, 18-12-303

After July 1, 2013, magazines holding more than 15 rounds may not be sold, transferred, or possessed unless they were lawfully owned prior to July 1, 2013. Firearms with a tubular magazine which are either chambered in .22 rimfire or operated by lever action are exempt from this regulation, as are magazines "permanently altered" to limit the capacity to 15 or fewer. Boulder city passed an ordinance in May 2018 banning magazines holding more than 10 rounds (15 for handguns). The town of Vail banned magazines holding 21 or more rounds in 1994. On June 29, 2020, the Colorado Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the magazine restrictions.

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-203

Colorado is a shall issue state for concealed carry. Permits are issued by local sheriff offices to county residents.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12;DRMC §§ 38-117(b), 38-118

Legal without permit requirements except in Denver and other posted areas.

Concealed within a vehicle?

Yes

Yes

Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 18-12-105(2b), 33-6-125;DRMC §§ 38-117(f), 38-118, 14-92

No permit is required. Pistols may be carried with chamber and magazine loaded. Rifles and shotguns must be carried with an empty chamber if the owner is in possession of a valid hunting license and that hunting season is in progress. Rounds in the magazine are permitted during that hunting season. A loaded weapon in a vehicle and a spotlight is prima facie evidence that one was attempting to illegally take game. Wildlife officers have full law enforcement powers.

State preemption of local restrictions?

partial

partial

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 29-11.7-103

Local ordinances are not preempted by state law, and Denver bans assault weapons and open carry. However, holders of concealed carry permits are exempt from most, but not all, local restrictions.

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

CRS § 18-12-102

NFA items are defined as a "dangerous weapon". Subsection 5: "It shall be an affirmative defense to the charge of possessing a dangerous weapon...that said person has a valid permit and license for possession of such weapon."

Peaceable Journey laws?

Yes

Yes

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.6; DRMC §§ 38-117(f), 38-118

Denver's restrictions on transport/possession of firearms in vehicles do not apply to persons traveling to or from other jurisdictions; see Trinen v. City & County of Denver, 53 P.3d 754

Castle Doctrine?

Yes

Yes

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-1-704.5

A legal resident of a property has the right to use deadly force to defend themselves, other occupants, and property from armed or unarmed intruders.

Stand Your Ground Law?

Yes

Yes

Common Law Doctrine

“The common-law doctrine of retreat to the wall . . . is applicable in this jurisdiction only to such cases as where the defendant voluntarily enters into a fight or where the parties engage in mutual combat, or where the defendant, being the assailant, does not endeavor in good faith to decline any further struggle before firing the fatal shot, and possibly to other similar cases.”

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

HB 19-1177

The police may temporarily confiscate firearms from people who are threatening to harm themselves or others or have been accused of the same by someone who resides at the same address of the subject, and then get a court order afterwards.

Waiting Period?

Yes

Yes

HB23-1219; Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-115

Effective October 1, 2023, there is a mandatory three day waiting period between initiation of a background check and taking possession on most firearms transfers. Exceptions include antique firearms and transfers between family members.

State permit required to purchase?

Yes

Yes

CGS 29–33(b), CGS 29–36(f), CGS 29-38m(c)

Certificate of Eligibility for Pistol and Revolvers, or Long Guns, or Ammunition required to purchase handguns, long guns, or ammunition, respectively, or a State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers to purchase any of the above. Applicants must complete an approved safety course, and pass a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check and mental health records check prior to issuance of certificate. Certificates of Eligibility are granted on a May-Issue basis to qualified applicants and are valid for five years. With the passing of Public Act 13-3, hunting licenses (which take approximately 12 hours to complete versus the eight hours the NRA Basic Pistol Course takes) may no longer be used to purchase ammunition or long rifles. Long guns and ammunition purchased outside of Connecticut are not subject to the long gun and ammunition eligibility requirements (even if one is a Conn. resident) other than the two-week waiting period must be observed for long gun transfers out of state, unless one has a valid hunting license or carry permit.

Firearm registration?

Partial

Partial

CGS 53–202

Registration required for assault weapons purchased between September 13, 1994 and April 1, 2014 and for machine guns obtained before January 1, 2014. There is a de facto registry of the sale (including the serial numbers) of handguns and long guns purchased in the state that is maintained by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). Any transfer, be it from a dealer or private party, must be accompanied by an authorization number issued by the DESPP and a form containing personal and weapon identification (DPS-3-C) must be submitted to DESPP and local police. This form is collected and maintained on all guns purchased from FFL dealers as well. The DPS-3-C form is not required for long gun transfers made out of state, and there is no legal requirement/penalty to register firearms purchased out of state or lawfully obtained before April 1, 2014.

"Assault Weapon" law?

Yes

Yes

CGS 53–202

Selective fire weapons, numerous specifically named firearms, some .50 BMG variant firearms, and semiautomatic center-fire firearms with one defining cosmetic feature are banned; banned weapons lawfully possessed prior to April 4, 2013, must have been registered with DESPP prior to January 1, 2014. Registered weapons may only be sold or transferred to a licensed gun dealer, to the State Police or local police department, transferred to a recipient outside of Connecticut or willed to a designated heir when the original owner/registrant becomes deceased. Assault weapons that are not specifically named on the state's assault weapons ban and were manufactured and lawfully obtained prior to September 13, 1994 do not require registration with DESPP and may be sold or transferred to any non-prohibited person provided that they are at least 21 years old. Exceptions exist for active and retired law enforcement and military members.

Magazine capacity restriction?

Yes

Yes

53-202w

As of April 4, 2013, magazines holding more than 10 rounds are considered Large Capacity Magazines (LCM), and such magazines manufactured after that date may not be sold or transferred within the state. Existing owners of LCMs may possess such magazines if they declare and register them with the DESPP before January 1, 2014; Owners of registered LCMs may not load such magazines with more than 10 rounds except when inside the owner's home or on the premises of a licensed shooting range. Even if an individual has a permit to carry a pistol or revolver, they can never carry, other than at a shooting range, a pistol that has an LCM loaded with more than 10 bullets. Possessing an unregistered Large Capacity Magazine obtained prior to the ban's effective date is an infraction with a $90 fine for the first offense, and a Class D felony (punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine) for subsequent offenses. Unlawfully possessing a LCM obtained after the effective date of the ban is a Class D felony.

Owner license required?

No

No

None

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

CGS 29–28

Shall-Issue, with Limited Discretion. Connecticut's pistol permit law specifies that issuing authorities May-Issue pistol permits to qualified applicants, but the state's courts have generally ruled that permits must be granted on a Shall-Issue basis to applicants meeting the state's qualifications for a pistol permit, as Connecticut does not require an applicant to "show good cause" for needing a permit. Issuing local authorities have limited discretion to deny a permit when he or she has personal knowledge of the applicant's character that would not otherwise be reflected on a background check. Denial on this basis would have to be justified with supporting evidence showing that the applicant is not of "suitable" character to be granted a pistol permit, but virtually all cases are thrown out if the applicant is not otherwise barred from owning firearms. Connecticut has a two-step permitting process: a 60-day Temporary permit issued by local authorities and a 5-year Regular permit issued by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). Issuance of a Temporary permit is technically not a prerequisite to apply for a Regular permit, but in practice an applicant must await a decision from local authorities on the temporary permit application before applying to DESPP for the Regular permit. If the local permit is denied for any reason, instead one files an appeal to DESPP to have the state board re-examine the application. If the state board denies the permit (rare occurrence), a court appeal is possible. Permit needed to carry open or concealed. Exceptions for peace officers and Active-Duty military members. Out of state permits not valid in Connecticut, but non-residents may apply for a Connecticut non-resident carry permit through the mail. Non-residents must have a carry permit issued by a United States jurisdiction to apply.

Permit required for open carry?

Illegal

Illegal

Effective October 1, 2023, the open carry of handguns and long guns is generally prohibited in Connecticut, except on property owned or lawfully controlled by the person carrying openly, at a designated shooting range, or while hunting.

Vehicle carry permitted?

No

Yes

A valid Connecticut pistol permit is required to carry a loaded weapon in a vehicle. Otherwise, the weapon must be unloaded and the firearm and its ammunition must be stored in locked containers during transport. As of October 1, 2019, handguns left in unattended vehicles are required to be stored in the trunk, locked safe, or locked glove box.

Duty to inform?

No

No

Connecticut is not a duty to inform state. Those who are carrying a pistol or revolver must carry their permit with them.

Castle Doctrine?

Yes

Yes

sec_53a-20

A person in possession or control of premises, or a person who is licensed or privileged to be in or upon such premises, is justified in using reasonable physical force upon another person when and to the extent that he reasonably believes such to be necessary to prevent or terminate the commission or attempted commission of a criminal trespass by such other person in or upon such premises; but he may use deadly physical force under such circumstances only (1) in defense of a person as prescribed in section 53a-19, or (2) when he reasonably believes such to be necessary to prevent an attempt by the trespasser to commit arson or any crime of violence, or (3) to the extent that he reasonably believes such to be necessary to prevent or terminate an unlawful entry by force into his dwelling as defined in section 53a-100, or place of work, and for the sole purpose of such prevention or termination.

State preemption of local restrictions?

Partial

Yes

CGS 29–28

State pre-emption of local ordinances not explicitly specified in state law, but established by court precedence. Most municipalities have ordinances restricting or banning the discharge of firearms outside of firing ranges or designated hunting areas during hunting seasons. Some municipalities have restrictions or bans on carrying long guns in public places. The City of New London and the City of New Britain previously had ordinances that forbade concealed carry of handguns, which have since been repealed in both cities. Some localities have zoning ordinances restricting or banning gun stores and/or shooting ranges within their boundaries.

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

CGS 53–202(c)

SBR, SBS, DD, suppressors are legal, provided they also comply with the assault weapons provisions, unless purchased before October 1, 1993. Machine guns are legal if purchased and registered with the state before January 1, 2014. Non-selective fire machine guns may be transferred to another resident within Connecticut.

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

CGS 29–38(d)

Federal rules observed.

Background checks required for private sales?

Yes

Yes

CGS 29-36l

Private party firearm transfers require that a NICS background check of the buyer be performed by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection – Special Licensing and Firearms Unit. This can be accomplished by the seller through a phone call to DESPP-SLFU.

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

State law allows police, after investigating and determining probable cause, to get a court warrant and seize guns from anyone "posing an imminent risk of harming themselves or someone else".

State permit required to purchase?

No

Yes

§ 1448A

The Permit to Purchase law takes effect on November 16, 2025, and individuals are urged to review the process ahead of that date to ensure they are prepared to meet all necessary criteria.

Firearm registration?

No

No

Assault weapon law?

Yes

Yes

HB 450

Effective June 30, 2022, the production, sale, transfer, receipt, and possession of firearms deemed as assault weapons are prohibited. State law bans numerous specifically named semi-automatic centerfire rifles, semi-automatic shotguns, and semi-automatic pistols. The law also bans "copycat" assault weapons, which are defined as being a firearm that while not specifically listed as a banned assault weapon, is either a semi-automatic centerfire rifle, semi-automatic shotgun, or semi-automatic pistol with one or more specific banned cosmetic features.

Magazine capacity restriction?

Yes

Yes

SB 66

Effective August 29, 2022, the production, sale, purchase, receipt, transfer, and possession of magazines capable of holding more than 17 rounds is prohibited. Active and retired law enforcement officers, members of the United States Armed Forces, and concealed-carry permit holders are exempt from the ban. .22 Caliber tubular magazines are also exempt from the ban.

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

11 Del.C. § 1441

Delaware is de jure a "may issue" state for concealed carry, but historically and in light of the Supreme Court's decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen, is shall-issue in practice. Permits are generally issued to all applicants not barred from owning a firearm.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

Open carry without a permit is generally lawful. A 2014 Delaware Supreme Court ruling recognized that open carry was a long-standing fundamental right, and could only be prohibited by local ordinances in effect prior to July 4, 1985. The city of Dover formerly required a permit from the police chief for a state concealed permit to open carry, but this was repealed in October 2015 in accordance with the ruling.

Stand Your Ground

No

No

A person is allowed to defend themselves or others in their home or workplace. While deadly force is allowed, it is only to be used when all other options have been exhausted, and the person feels they are in immediate danger. However, When a person is outside their home or workplace, deadly force to defend themselves may be illegal due to the fact there is a duty to retreat before deadly force is used.

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes*

Yes*

22 Del.C § 111

Municipalities may regulate only the discharge of firearms and the possession of firearms within police stations and municipal buildings, unless the ordinance was in effect prior to July 4, 1985.

NFA weapons restricted?

Yes

Yes

SBRs and AOWs are legal. The city of Wilmington prohibits possession of SBRs within city limits. Machine guns, suppressors, Destructive Devices and SBS are prohibited for civilians.

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Federal rules observed.

Background checks required for private sales?

Yes

Yes

147th General Assembly: Chapter 20

Private party transfers of firearms to persons other than family members must be conducted through a licensed dealer, who is required by federal law to conduct a background check and keep a record of the sale. A transfer to a person who possesses a valid License to Carry a Concealed Deadly Weapon is exempt from this requirement.

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

House Bill 302 (2018)

If a mental health professional deems that a person is a danger to themselves or to others, the police may get a court order to temporarily seize that person's firearms.

Permit required to purchase?

Yes

Yes

The firearm registration process also serves as a permitting process. Purchases by DC residents may only be made through a federally licensed dealer ("FFL"), and firearms purchased through an FFL can only be physically delivered to the purchaser after MPD approves the purchase by issuing a firearm registration certificate.

Owner license required?

Yes

Yes

The firearm registration process also serves as a licensing process. In the case of self-manufactured firearms, DC residents have 5 business days to file for a registration certificate after completing the self-manufacture of a firearm.

Firearm registration?

Yes

Yes

All firearms (except certain black powder firearms) must be registered with the Metropolitan Police Department as soon as they are brought into the District; for new purchases the registration must issue prior to the owner taking possession. An NCIC background check, fingerprinting, proof of address, and online training are required.

License required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

The Metropolitan Police Department shall issue a Concealed Pistol License to a qualified applicant. Only registered pistols may be carried. Nonresidents must register a pistol with MPD in order to apply for a Concealed Pistol License.

Open carry allowed?

No

No

Open carry is prohibited.

Assault weapon law?

Yes

Yes

Law enforcement evaluates each firearm application on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the firearm is free of certain enumerated “assault” features before approving the firearm registration application.

Magazine capacity restriction?

Yes

Yes

Possession of magazines capable of accepting or "readily restored or converted to accept" more than 10 rounds is prohibited.

NFA weapons restricted?

Yes

Yes

Possession of machine guns, short barreled shotguns, and silencers is prohibited; possession of short barreled rifles is not specifically prohibited but short barreled rifles cannot be registered.

Peaceable journey laws?

No

No

Federal law (FOPA) applies.

Background checks required for private sales?

Yes

Yes

DC Code §7–2505.02

Private party firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed dealer, who is required by federal law to conduct a background check and keep a record of the sale. As a result of this and applicable federal law, all handgun transfers to DC residents must be conducted by FFLs located inside the District of Columbia. Long guns (shotguns and rifles) may be transferred to DC residents by FFLs located in other states, although DC law requires that those FFLs comply with DC law. Sales made by DC firearms owners to purchasers in other states need only conform to that state's transfer laws, although federal law requires that such transfers be facilitated through an FFL.

Waiting period?

Yes

Yes

After purchasing a firearm, the buyer must receive a registration certificate from the police department before taking possession of the gun, a process which can take up to 90 days. Officially, however, the minimum waiting period is ten days.

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

Duty to inform?

Yes

Yes

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Waiting period?

Yes

Yes

Fla. Const. Article VIII § 5(b)Fla. Stat. § 790.0655

The mandatory waiting period is 3 days, excluding weekends and legal holidays, or expires upon the completion of the records checks, whichever occurs later.Individual counties can require a waiting period of up to five days. This requirement is waived for holders of a Florida Concealed Weapon license.

Firearm registration?

No

No

Fla. Stat. § 790.335

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Red Flag law?

Yes

Yes

Fla. Stat. § 790.401

The police can get judicial approval to confiscate, for up to a year, the firearms of a person deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

Fla. Stat. § 790.01

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

Fla. Stat. § 790.25(3)

Florida's open carry ban was declared unconstitutional by Florida First District Court of Appeal on 10 September 2025. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier welcomed the ruling and ordered law enforcement officers to no longer enforce the ban, effectively making Florida an open carry state. Open carry is now allowed without a permit. Local restrictions preempted.

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

Fla. Stat. § 790.33

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

Fla. Stat. § 790.161Fla. Stat. § 790.222

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

Purchase age restriction?

Yes

Yes

Fla. Stat. § 790.065(13)

The sale or transfer of a firearm to a person younger than 21 years of age may not be made or facilitated by a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer. The law restricts all long guns to those over 18 years old

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

O.C.G.A. § 16-11-126O.C.G.A. § 16-11-129

Georgia is a "shall issue" for Georgia residents 21 years or older.Permitless concealed carry took effect on April 12, 2022.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

O.C.G.A. § 16-11-126O.C.G.A. § 16-11-129

Georgia is a "shall issue" for Georgia residents 21 years or older.Permitless open carry took effect on April 12, 2022.

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

O.C.G.A. § 16-3-23.1

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

O.C.G.A. § 16-11-173

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

O.C.G.A. §§ 16-11-120 to 16-11-125

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

State permit required to purchase?

Yes

Yes

§134-2

Must be 21 years old to acquire a permit to purchase.

Firearm registration?

Yes

Yes

HRS 0134-0003

Must be registered with county police chief within 5 days of purchase or arrival to Hawaii. Registration not required for black powder and pre-1899 firearms. May not bring firearm into the state if under 21.

Assault weapon law?

No

Yes

Law bans assault pistols with two or more banned features. Does not apply to rifles or shotguns with a barrel length greater than 16 inches

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

Yes

HRS134-8(c) HRS134-11(3)

Any magazine with a capacity of more than 10 rounds that can be inserted into a pistol is prohibited. Members of organizations are exempt from the pistol magazine limit at places of target shooting.

Owner license required?

No

No

No license required to own any firearms in Hawaii, but all firearms, including those brought into the state by new residents, must be registered.

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

HRS 0134-0009

Permits are granted on a shall issue basis. While Hawaii has a may-issue law and historically approved almost no concealed carry permit applications, its law has been permanently enjoined since the Supreme Court's decision in NYSPRA v. Bruen on June 23, 2022. This ruling held that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to carry a handgun outside the home, abrogating Hawaii's may-issue concealed carry law. Prior to the ruling, the chief of police in each county could grant a permit "in an exceptional case, when an applicant shows reason to fear injury to the applicant's person or property." On July 7, 2022, the state's attorney general formally acknowledged that the licensing officials could no longer enforce this clause in light of the Bruen decision.

Permit required for open carry?

Yes

Yes

By law, Hawaii is a Licensed Open Carry State, but since licenses are rarely issued, the state is Non-Permissive for open carry in practice. The chief of police may grant a permit "Where the urgency or the need has been sufficiently indicated" provided that the person "is engaged in the protection of life and property." In practice, Hawaii is "No-Issue," as issuing authorities rarely or never approve applications for permits. On July 24, 2018, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Hawaii's laws restricting open carry are unconstitutional. That ruling was vacated on February 8, 2019, and the case was reheard en banc on September 24, 2020. On March 24, 2021, the en banc court ruled that Hawaii's restrictions on the open carrying of firearms are outside the historical scope of the Second Amendment and therefore the laws restricting open carry are constitutional. No laws against open carrying long guns. The Bruen decision has left the no issuance of open carry licenses in a grey area at this point.

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

Municipalities may enact and enforce local regulations only if they are identical to, and provide the same penalty as, state law.

NFA weapons restricted?

Yes

Yes

Machine guns, short barreled rifles, short barreled shotguns, and silencers/suppressors are prohibited from the average citizen. Certain Destructive Devices and AOWs are allowed with proper tax stamp and NFA paperwork from the ATF.

Peaceable journey laws?

No

No

None

Federal laws observed.

Background checks required for private sales?

Yes

Yes

HRS §134-2

A person who wants to purchase a handgun or long gun must obtain a permit to acquire the ownership of a firearm, which requires a background check of the applicant.

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

Hawaii passed a red flag law in late June 2019.

Duty to inform?

Yes

Yes

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

Semi-automatic weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

I.C. § 18-3302I.C. § 18-3302K

Idaho is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 18 years or older. Regular and Enhanced permits are issued.Permitless carry took effect on July 1, 2016.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

I.C. § 18-3302

May carry openly without permit.

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

I.C. § 19-202A

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

I.C. § 18-3302J

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

State permit required to purchase?

Yes

Yes

430 ILCS 65

FOID (Firearm Owner's Identification) card required.

Owner permit required?

Yes

Yes

430 ILCS 65

FOID card required.

Firearm registration?

Partial

Partial

720 ILCS 5/24-1.9

Firearms legally defined as assault weapons possessed within Illinois before January 10, 2023, must have been registered with the state police before January 1, 2024.

License required for concealed carry?

N/A

Yes

430 ILCS 66

Shall-issue with limited discretion. Concealed carry licenses are issued by the state police. Licenses issued by other states are not recognized, but nonresidents from states with "substantially similar" licensing requirements can apply for an Illinois nonresident license.

Open carry allowed?

No

No

720 ILCS 5/24-1

Vehicle carry allowed?

No

Yes

430 ILCS 66

An Illinois concealed carry license is required for Illinois residents. Non-residents may carry in a vehicle if they are eligible to carry in their home state. If their home state issues licenses or permits, a license or permit is required.

State preemption of local restrictions?

Partial

Partial

430 ILCS 66

Preemption for the regulation and transportation of handguns and handgun ammunition. Preemption for laws regulating assault weapons, unless enacted before July 20, 2013.

Assault weapon law?

Yes

Yes

720 ILCS 5/24-1.9

The sale of firearms defined as assault weapons is prohibited as of January 10, 2023. Existing assault weapons are grandfathered in if registered with the state police by January 1, 2024. These restrictions are being challenged in various state and federal courts. Some local governments have banned the possession of assault weapons, prior to the preemption deadline of July 20, 2013.

Magazine capacity restriction?

Yes

Yes

720 ILCS 5/24-1.9

Limit of 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for handguns as of January 10, 2023. These restrictions are being challenged in various state and federal courts. Some local governments have enacted additional restrictions.

NFA weapons restricted?

Yes

Yes

720 ILCS 5/24-1 720 ILCS 5/24-2

Automatic firearms, short-barreled shotguns, and suppressors prohibited. Short-barreled rifles allowed only for Curios and Relics license holders or members of a bona fide military reenactment group. AOW (Any Other Weapon) and large-bore DD (Destructive Device) allowed with proper approval and tax stamp from ATF.

Castle doctrine / stand your ground laws?

Partial

Partial

720 ILCS 5

Illinois has no stand-your-ground law, however there is also no duty to retreat. The use of force is justified when a person reasonably believes that it is necessary "to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to himself or another, or the commission of a forcible felony." There are some additional protections for defense against unlawful entry into a dwelling.

Peaceable journey laws?

Partial

Yes

430 ILCS 66

Illinois has state preemption for the transportation of handguns and handgun ammunition. Non-Illinois residents are granted a limited exception to lawfully carry a concealed firearm within a vehicle if they are eligible to carry a firearm in public under the laws of their own state, "as evidenced by the possession of a concealed carry license or permit issued by his or her state of residence." Non-residents who are permitted to possess a firearm in their own state are not required to have a FOID card. Some localities have banned the possession of assault weapons.

Background checks required for private sales?

Yes

Yes

430 ILCS 65

Private sales of firearms must be done through a gun dealer with a Federal Firearms License (FFL).

Red flag law?

Yes

Yes

430 ILCS 65430 ILCS 67

Family members, police, or state's attorneys can petition a judge to issue an order to confiscate the firearms of a person deemed an immediate and present danger to themselves or others. The person's firearms must be returned to them within one year unless the court finds grounds to renew the suspension. Law enforcement officers, school administrators, physicians, and mental health professionals can file a clear and present danger report with the Department of Human Services and Illinois State Police, which will revoke the FOID card of a person who communicates a serious threat of physical violence or demonstrates threatening physical or verbal behavior. Subjects of such reports must undergo a psychological evaluation to prove they are not a danger to themselves or others if they wish to obtain a FOID card or to have a revoked FOID card reinstated.

Waiting period?

Yes

Yes

720 ILCS 5/24-3

After purchasing a firearm, the waiting period before the buyer can take possession is 72 hours.

"Ghost guns" banned?

Yes

Yes

720 ILCS 5/24-1

All firearms are required to have a serial number.

Minimum age to purchase or possess?

No

Yes

720 ILCS 5/24-3

Illinois prohibits any person under age 18 from possessing a handgun. (Federal law prohibits persons under 18 from purchasing long guns, and persons under 21 from purchasing handguns.)

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

Firearm registration?

No

No

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Red Flag law?

Yes

Yes

IC 35-47-14-6

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

IC 35-47-2-1IC 35-47-2-1.5IC 35-47-2-3

Indiana is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 18 years or older. Permitless concealed carry took effect on July 1, 2022, for residents and non-residents 18 or older

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

IC 35-47-2-1IC 35-47-2-3

Permitless open carry took effect on July 1, 2022, for residents and non-residents 18 or older. Carry of long guns is generally permitted. On May 9, 2017, the Indiana Supreme Court ruled that detaining an individual based solely upon their possession of a handgun (in order to verify that they are licensed) violates the Fourth Amendment absent any other reasonable articulable suspicion of a crime being committed.

Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law?

Yes

Yes

IC 35-41-3-2

State preemption of local restrictions?

Yes

Yes

IC 35-47-11.1-2

NFA weapons restricted?

No

No

Shall certify?

Yes

Yes

IC 35-47-8.5-2

Shall certify within 15 days.

Peaceable Journey laws?

No

No

Background checks required for private sales?

No

No

State permit required to purchase?

No

No

724.15

Iowa law provides for a permit to acquire pistols or revolvers but it is not required to purchase firearms. The permit has a three-day waiting period before taking effect.

Firearm registration?

No

No

724.11

"Neither the sheriff nor the commissioner shall require an applicant for a permit to carry weapons to provide information identifying a particular weapon in the application including the make, model, or serial number of the weapon or any ammunition used in that particular weapon."

Assault weapon law?

No

No

Magazine capacity restriction?

No

No

Owner license required?

No

No

Permit required for concealed carry?

N/A

No

724.5724.7

Iowa is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 21 years or older.Permitless carry took effect on July 1, 2021.

Permit required for open carry?

No

No

724.5

May carry openly without permit.