Idaho Gun Control Laws

The state of Idaho holds very lax firearms laws. There are very instances in which an individual will require a license, permit, or registration of any kind. Possession of firearms is completely legal in Idaho. Even machine guns can be possessed if registered through and comply with federal regulations. A permit is required for the carry of concealed handguns in only two instances. One is for a person who resides in a city or carries a firearm in a city, or for persons between the ages of 18 and 21. Two is for those under the age of 18 may possess a firearm while in the company of a parent or guardian. However, these laws do not carry over to other states. For inter-state travel, an Idaho resident would need to gain the proper legal allowance from the states they travel through to carry their firearm.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

• Possessing a firearm, concealed or not, while under the influence of alcohol is a misdemeanor.
• Possession on or near any school grounds is a misdemeanor.
• Those under the age of 18 illegally possessing a firearm will be charged with a misdemeanor.

Requirements:

Idaho Purchasing Guns Laws

No legal action is required to purchase firearms in the state of Idaho. Individuals may purchase rifles or shotguns in any states contiguous to Idaho, while residents of those states may purchase rifles or shotguns in Idaho.

Penalties & Regulations for Illegal Purchases

• The sale of any firearms to anyone under the age of 18 has a maximum punishment of 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
• With the exception of shells for .22 calibers and below rifles, no gunpowder of any kind may be sold directly or indirectly to individuals under the age of 16. Violators are charged with misdemeanors.

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

Use of firearms in self-defense of oneself or another is permissible in the state of Idaho, but only if the attack is made on the defender's personal or business property. Civil lawsuits may not be filed against the defender. Self-defense with a deadly weapon may not be used if:

• The life if the defender was not in danger of death
• If the defender flees the site of the attack, after it has happened
• Use of firearms is not allowed across a roadway or railroad

Legal Help

As the state of Idaho has few restrictions to firearms laws, charges are much less common than in other states. One should seek the aid of an attorney if faced with firearms charges. However, common laws broken are as follows:

• Felon possessing a firearm
• Individuals convicted of crimes of violence possessing a firearm
• Discharging the firearm illegally