Gun Buying Laws by State (2026 Table + Free CSV)

By Sunlit Carry · Nov 1, 2026 · Updated Nov 1, 2026 · 31 min read

Good to know: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Gun laws change often and many are in court, so confirm the current rule with the state agency that runs firearm checks, your dealer or an attorney before you buy. Where a state has no permit or waiting period, we cite the state law chapter that governs firearm sales.

Federal law sets a floor for every gun purchase in the United States. A licensed dealer can't sell a handgun to anyone under 21 or a rifle or shotgun to anyone under 18, every dealer sale needs a background check, and the buyer fills out ATF Form 4473. States can add more on top: a higher age, a permit or license to buy, a waiting period, or a state agency that runs the background check instead of the FBI.

Below is a short, sourced summary for all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Each entry covers the four questions people search most: the minimum age for handguns and long guns, whether you need a permit or license to purchase, how long the waiting period is, and who runs the background check (the FBI's NICS system, or the state as a "point of contact").

Gun buying laws by state: the 2026 table

Click any column heading to sort. Every row links to the state statute we verified it against, and the full table is free to download as a CSV.

Download the CSV (51 rows)

Column notes. "Universal background checks" means private sales must also go through a check. "Partial" means some guns or sales only. Suppressor, SBR (short-barreled rifle) and SBS (short-barreled shotgun) columns cover state law; many states that allow them do so only for items that comply with the federal National Firearms Act, so the ATF's Oct. 9, 2026 policy change does not by itself change state law (see our NFA changes guide). "Constitutional carry" means no permit is needed to carry a handgun for eligible adults 21+ (18+ in some states).

Key statutes for the newer columns: Rhode Island assault weapons sales ban: R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 11-47.2; Colorado SB25-003 (C.R.S. 18-12-116); Washington RCW 9.41.190 (SBR legal if federally compliant; SBS banned); Washington RCW 9.41.390 (assault weapons sales ban); Delaware 11 Del. C. 1444 (silencers and sawed-off shotguns); Minnesota Stat. 609.67 (short-barreled shotguns); Massachusetts G.L. c.140 s.121 (definitions); Virginia Code 18.2-287.4:1 (2026 assault firearm sales law); New York Penal Law 265.00 (definitions); California Penal Code 16590 (generally prohibited weapons).

Legal disclaimer: This table is a plain-English summary for general information. It is not legal advice and does not cover every exception, local ordinance or pending court case. Laws marked as blocked or on hold can change quickly. Before you buy, confirm the rule with the agency that runs firearm checks in your state, a licensed dealer or a lawyer.

How to read this guide

• Age is the minimum age to buy from a licensed dealer. "21 from a dealer (federal)" and "18 (federal)" mean we found no confirmed higher state age.
• Permit to purchase means a state permit, license, card or certificate you need before you can buy, not a carry license.
• Waiting period is the state-required delay between the sale and taking the gun home. Separately, if the federal check comes back "delayed," federal law lets the dealer transfer after 3 business days, and many dealers choose to wait longer.
• Background check route follows the ATF's Brady state lists. "Point of contact" (POC) states run the check through a state agency; "partial" states split it by gun type.

Quick links

Alabama · Alaska · Arizona · Arkansas · California · Colorado · Connecticut · Delaware · District of Columbia · Florida · Georgia · Hawaii · Idaho · Illinois · Indiana · Iowa · Kansas · Kentucky · Louisiana · Maine · Maryland · Massachusetts · Michigan · Minnesota · Mississippi · Missouri · Montana · Nebraska · Nevada · New Hampshire · New Jersey · New Mexico · New York · North Carolina · North Dakota · Ohio · Oklahoma · Oregon · Pennsylvania · Rhode Island · South Carolina · South Dakota · Tennessee · Texas · Utah · Vermont · Virginia · Washington · West Virginia · Wisconsin · Wyoming

The federal baseline

Under 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1), a licensed dealer may not sell a handgun to anyone under 21 or any firearm to anyone under 18. Dealers must run a background check through NICS or the state point of contact and keep a Form 4473 for each sale. A dealer can sell a handgun only to a resident of the dealer's own state, so out-of-state handgun buyers have the gun shipped to a dealer at home. Rifles and shotguns can be sold in person to out-of-state residents when the sale is legal in both states.

The federal under-21 handgun rule has been challenged in court, and appellate rulings differ by region. Ask your dealer how it applies where you live.

State-by-state summary

Alabama

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Code of Ala. Title 13A, Ch. 11, Art. 3) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Code of Ala. Title 13A, Ch. 11, Art. 3) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Code of Ala. Title 13A, Ch. 11, Art. 3; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Alaska

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Alaska Stat. Title 11, Ch. 61) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Alaska Stat. Title 11, Ch. 61) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Alaska Stat. Title 11, Ch. 61; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Arizona

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (A.R.S. Title 13, Ch. 31) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (A.R.S. Title 13, Ch. 31) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: A.R.S. Title 13, Ch. 31; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Arkansas

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Ark. Code Title 5, Ch. 73) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Ark. Code Title 5, Ch. 73) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Ark. Code Title 5, Ch. 73; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

California

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21, with limited exceptions for some non-handgun purchases at 18 (hunting license, military, law enforcement).
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A Firearm Safety Certificate is required before buying, unless exempt.
• Waiting period: 10 days (ten 24-hour periods after the dealer submits the DROS).
• Background check: State point of contact (California DOJ, DROS).

Most private sales must also go through a California dealer.

Sources: Cal. Penal Code 26815; Cal. Penal Code 27510; California DOJ firearms FAQ; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Colorado

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21.
• Permit or license to purchase: No state purchase permit.
• Waiting period: Delivery waits until the later of 3 days after the dealer starts the check or the state approves the transfer.
• Background check: State point of contact (CBI).

The under-21 rule has narrow exceptions for military and peace officers.

Sources: C.R.S. 18-12-115; SB23-169 (age 21); 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Connecticut

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 18; 21 for a semi-automatic centerfire rifle that has or accepts a magazine of more than five rounds.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A pistol permit or eligibility certificate for handguns; a long gun eligibility certificate (or pistol permit/certificate) for long guns.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Conn. Gen. Stat. Ch. 529) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears; the old 14-day long gun wait ended April 1, 2014.
• Background check: State point of contact (DESPP).

Sources: Conn. Gen. Stat. 29-37a; Conn. Gen. Stat. 29-34; DESPP firearm rules FAQ; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Delaware

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes for handguns. A handgun qualified purchaser permit has been required since Nov. 16, 2025 (Delaware concealed carry license holders and some others are exempt).
• Waiting period: Delivery once the State Bureau of Identification approves the check, or after 25 days with no denial.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Delaware State Police: Permit to Purchase; 11 Del. C. 1448A; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

District of Columbia

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21; ages 18 to 20 may register a long gun with notarized parent or guardian consent.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. Every firearm must be registered with MPD before you take possession.
• Waiting period: 10 days.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: D.C. Code 22-4508; MPD firearm registration; MPD registration FAQ; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Florida

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21 (narrow exceptions for law enforcement, corrections and servicemembers buying long guns).
• Permit or license to purchase: No permit, license or registration.
• Waiting period: 3 days, not counting weekends and legal holidays (license holders and some others exempt).
• Background check: State point of contact (FDLE).

Full details: Buying a gun in Florida.

Sources: Fla. Stat. 790.065; Fla. Stat. 790.0655; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Georgia

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (O.C.G.A. Title 16, Ch. 11, Art. 4) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (O.C.G.A. Title 16, Ch. 11, Art. 4) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: O.C.G.A. Title 16, Ch. 11, Art. 4; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Hawaii

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A permit to acquire from the county police chief, one per handgun; long gun permits last a year.
• Waiting period: Permits can't issue sooner than 14 calendar days after you apply.
• Background check: State point of contact.

Handgun permits are void if not used within 30 days.

Sources: Haw. Rev. Stat. 134-2; Hawaii Police Department firearm services; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Idaho

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Idaho Code Title 18, Ch. 33) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Idaho Code Title 18, Ch. 33) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Idaho Code Title 18, Ch. 33; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Illinois

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21, or under 21 with a FOID issued on parent or guardian consent.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A FOID card (or an Illinois concealed carry license with a valid FOID).
• Waiting period: 72 hours from the agreement to buy.
• Background check: State point of contact (Illinois State Police).

Sources: 430 ILCS 65/2 and 65/4 (FOID Act); ISP dealer portal FAQ (72-hour wait, 720 ILCS 5/24-3); ISP FOID FAQ; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Indiana

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Ind. Code Title 35, Art. 47) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Ind. Code Title 35, Art. 47) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Ind. Code Title 35, Art. 47; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Iowa

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No. The permit to acquire pistols has been optional since July 1, 2021.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Iowa Code Ch. 724) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Iowa Code Ch. 724; Iowa DPS weapon permits; House File 756 (2021); 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Kansas

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (K.S.A. Ch. 21, Art. 63) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (K.S.A. Ch. 21, Art. 63) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: K.S.A. Ch. 21, Art. 63; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Kentucky

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (KRS Ch. 237) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (KRS Ch. 237) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: KRS Ch. 237; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Louisiana

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (La. R.S. Title 40, Ch. 9) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (La. R.S. Title 40, Ch. 9) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: La. R.S. Title 40, Ch. 9; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Maine

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Title 25 M.R.S.) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: 72 hours after the agreement to buy, effective Aug. 9, 2024, with listed exemptions such as family transfers (upheld on appeal; the U.S. Supreme Court declined review Oct. 19, 2026).
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: 25 M.R.S. 2016; Maine DPS/AG advisory on the waiting period law; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Maryland

• Age: handgun 21 (Handgun Qualification License age); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes for handguns. A Handgun Qualification License, with training and fingerprints.
• Waiting period: 7 days for regulated firearms (handguns and assault weapons).
• Background check: Partial: Maryland State Police for handguns and assault weapons, FBI NICS for long guns.

Sources: Md. Public Safety 5-117.1; MSP: Purchase a regulated firearm; COMAR 29.03.01.13; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Massachusetts

• Age: handgun 21 (License to Carry); long gun 18 with an FID card for non-large-capacity rifles and shotguns.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A License to Carry (LTC) for handguns and large-capacity guns, or an FID card for other long guns.
• Waiting period: None; state law (M.G.L. c.140) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears, though the license or FID card itself can take up to 40 days to issue.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: M.G.L. c.140 s.123; Mass.gov: Gun ownership in Massachusetts; M.G.L. c.140 s.131; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Michigan

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes for pistols. A license to purchase from local police unless you hold a concealed pistol license.
• Waiting period: None; state law (MCL 28.422) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: MCL 28.422; MCL 28.422a; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Minnesota

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes for pistols and semi-automatic military-style assault weapons from a dealer: a transferee permit (issued within 30 days) or a carry permit, unless you file a transfer report and wait.
• Waiting period: None with a transferee or carry permit; otherwise 30 days after the transfer report for pistols and semi-automatic military-style assault weapons, unless the sheriff or police chief waives it.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Minn. Stat. 624.7131; Minn. Stat. 624.7132; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Mississippi

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Miss. Code Title 97, Ch. 37) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Miss. Code Title 97, Ch. 37) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Miss. Code Title 97, Ch. 37; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Missouri

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (RSMo Ch. 571) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (RSMo Ch. 571) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: RSMo Ch. 571; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Montana

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (MCA Title 45, Ch. 8, Part 3) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (MCA Title 45, Ch. 8, Part 3) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: MCA Title 45, Ch. 8, Part 3; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Nebraska

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes for handguns. A handgun purchase certificate from your police chief or sheriff, unless you hold a Nebraska concealed handgun permit.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Neb. Rev. Stat. 69-2401 to 69-2425) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: Partial: state permit for handguns, FBI NICS for long guns.

Sources: Neb. Rev. Stat. 69-2403; Neb. Rev. Stat. 69-2404; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Nevada

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (NRS Ch. 202) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (NRS Ch. 202) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: State point of contact.

Sources: NRS Ch. 202; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

New Hampshire

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (RSA Ch. 159) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (RSA Ch. 159) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: Partial: NH Department of Safety for handguns, FBI NICS for long guns.

Sources: RSA Ch. 159; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

New Jersey

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 18.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A Firearms Purchaser ID card for long guns and a permit to purchase for each handgun.
• Waiting period: Handguns: no delivery until 7 days after the permit application (permits are issued within 30 days); none for long guns once you hold an FID card.
• Background check: State point of contact (NJ State Police).

Sources: N.J.S.A. 2C:58-2 and 58-3 (NJ statutes); N.J.S.A. 2C:58-3; NJSP FARS FAQ; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

New Mexico

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (NMSA Ch. 30, Art. 7) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: 7 calendar days, or until the check clears (transfer allowed after 20 days); concealed handgun license holders exempt.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

On Aug. 27, 2026, a federal court blocked enforcement of the waiting period only against the two named plaintiffs in that case. New Mexico DPS says the 7-day wait still applies to everyone else.

Sources: NMSA 30-7-7.3; NM DPS: 7-day waiting period; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

New York

• Age: handgun 21 (pistol license); long gun 21 with a license for semi-automatic rifles; 18 (federal) for other rifles and shotguns.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes. A pistol license for handguns and a semi-automatic rifle license.
• Waiting period: None set by statute, but a pistol or semi-automatic rifle license must be issued first, which can take up to six months.
• Background check: State point of contact.

Sources: N.Y. Penal Law 400.00; NY State Police firearms; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

North Carolina

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No. Pistol purchase permits were repealed effective March 29, 2023.
• Waiting period: None; state law (N.C. Gen. Stat. Ch. 14, Art. 52A) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: N.C. Gen. Stat. Ch. 14, Art. 52A; Senate Bill 41 (S.L. 2023-8); 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

North Dakota

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (N.D.C.C. Ch. 62.1-02) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (N.D.C.C. Ch. 62.1-02) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: N.D.C.C. Ch. 62.1-02; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Ohio

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Ohio Rev. Code Ch. 2923) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Ohio Rev. Code Ch. 2923) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Ohio Rev. Code Ch. 2923; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Oklahoma

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (21 Okla. Stat. 1271 et seq.) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (21 Okla. Stat. 1271 et seq.) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: 21 Okla. Stat. 1271 et seq.; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Oregon

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: Not in effect. Measure 114's permit to purchase is delayed to Jan. 1, 2028 by HB 4145 and still in litigation.
• Waiting period: None; state law (ORS Ch. 166) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: State point of contact (Oregon State Police FICS).

Sources: ORS Ch. 166; HB 4145 (2026); OSP Firearms Instant Check System; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Pennsylvania

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (18 Pa.C.S. Ch. 61) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None. The old waiting period was replaced by the PICS instant check.
• Background check: State point of contact.

Sources: 18 Pa.C.S. Ch. 61; Pennsylvania State Police: Information for Firearm Purchasers (SP4-135); 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Rhode Island

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 21.
• Permit or license to purchase: Yes for handguns. A pistol safety certificate (blue card) or hunter education card.
• Waiting period: 7 days for pistols, revolvers, rifles and shotguns.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: R.I. Gen. Laws 11-47-35; R.I. Gen. Laws 11-47-35.2; RIDEM blue card; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

South Carolina

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (S.C. Code Title 23, Ch. 31) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (S.C. Code Title 23, Ch. 31) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: S.C. Code Title 23, Ch. 31; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

South Dakota

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (SDCL Ch. 23-7) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (SDCL Ch. 23-7) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: SDCL Ch. 23-7; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Tennessee

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Tenn. Code Title 39, Ch. 17, Part 13) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Tenn. Code Title 39, Ch. 17, Part 13) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: State point of contact.

Sources: Tenn. Code Title 39, Ch. 17, Part 13; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Texas

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No. Texas has no purchase permit or state gun registry.
• Waiting period: No state waiting period.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Full details: Buying a gun in Texas.

Sources: Texas State Law Library: legal age; Texas State Law Library: registration; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Utah

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Utah Code Title 76, Ch. 10, Part 5) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Utah Code Title 76, Ch. 10, Part 5) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: State point of contact.

Sources: Utah Code Title 76, Ch. 10, Part 5; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Vermont

• Age: handgun 21 (with exceptions for law enforcement, military and hunter safety course graduates); long gun 21 (same exceptions).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (13 V.S.A. Ch. 85) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: 72 hours after the check clears, or 7 business days after it starts, whichever comes first.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: 13 V.S.A. 4019a; 13 V.S.A. 4020; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Virginia

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Va. Code 18.2-308.2:2) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Va. Code 18.2-308.2:2) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: State point of contact (Virginia State Police).

Sources: Va. Code 18.2-308.2:2; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Washington

• Age: handgun 21; long gun 18, but 21 for semi-automatic assault rifles.
• Permit or license to purchase: Not yet. A permit to purchase takes effect May 1, 2027.
• Waiting period: 10 business days for every dealer sale.
• Background check: State point of contact (Washington State Patrol).

Sources: RCW 9.41.092; RCW 9.41.240; RCW 9.41.090 (effective May 1, 2027); 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

West Virginia

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (W. Va. Code Ch. 61, Art. 7) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (W. Va. Code Ch. 61, Art. 7) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: W. Va. Code Ch. 61, Art. 7; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Wisconsin

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Wis. Stat. 175.35) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None since 2015. A dealer may transfer a handgun once DOJ issues an approval number.
• Background check: Partial: Wisconsin DOJ for handguns, FBI NICS for long guns.

Sources: Wis. Stat. 175.35; 2015 Wisconsin Act 22 (Legislative Council memo); 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Wyoming

• Age: handgun 21 from a dealer (federal); long gun 18 (federal).
• Permit or license to purchase: No state permit to purchase; state law (Wyo. Stat. Title 6, Ch. 8) has no such requirement, so federal rules apply.
• Waiting period: None; state law (Wyo. Stat. Title 6, Ch. 8) sets no waiting period, so the gun can go home once the check clears.
• Background check: FBI NICS through the dealer.

Sources: Wyo. Stat. Title 6, Ch. 8; 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) (federal dealer age limits); ATF Brady State Lists (who runs the check).

Buying online: picking up through a local dealer

Guns bought online don't ship to your door. The seller ships the gun to a licensed dealer you choose near home. When it arrives, you go to the dealer with your ID and any state permit, fill out Form 4473, and the dealer runs the background check through NICS or your state. Any state waiting period starts under your state's rules, and you take the gun home once the check clears and the wait is over. Dealers charge their own transfer fee, so call ahead to ask about the fee, the ID they accept and their pickup hours. Our guide to how FFL transfers work walks through each step.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to buy a gun?

It depends on your state. Federal law doesn't require a purchase permit, but states such as California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland (handguns), Massachusetts, Michigan (pistols), Minnesota (pistols and some semi-automatics), Nebraska (handguns), New Jersey, New York and Delaware (handguns) do, and D.C. requires registration before you take the gun home. See your state's entry above.

Which states have a waiting period to buy a gun?

State-required waits in this guide: California, Colorado, D.C., Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota (without a permit), New Jersey (handguns), New Mexico, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington. Some other states may delay sales through permit processing, so see your state's entry.

How old do you have to be to buy a gun?

From a licensed dealer, federal law sets 21 for handguns and 18 for rifles and shotguns. Several states, including Florida, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Vermont and Washington (for some rifles), set 21 for long guns too.

How much does it cost to transfer gun ownership?

There's no single national fee. Dealers set their own transfer fee for guns shipped to them, and some states add their own background check or permit fees. Ask the dealer and your state agency before you buy.

What is a POC state?

A point of contact state runs dealer background checks through its own agency, which checks state records as well as NICS. In the rest of the country, dealers contact the FBI's NICS directly.

Sources

Each state entry lists its own sources. Background check routes come from the ATF's Brady state lists (updated 2026). Federal age limits come from 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1). Statute sources for the table columns are linked in each row and listed under the table. This edition was reviewed on Nov. 1, 2026.