Gun Possession and Use Laws

Learn how your state regulates the possession and use of firearms, and how federal laws affect you, too.

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Related to This Topic

The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees citizens the right to keep and bear arms. However, states have the right to require permits for gun possession, and to specify where and when guns may be possessed and carried, openly or concealed.

Gun Control Laws Information

Learn about specific firearm and gun possession and use laws.

The Federal Assault Weapons Ban
The federal ban lapsed in 2013, after only ten years on the books. Politics was not the only reason.
Federal Gun Control Laws
Learn the details of federal gun control laws, including permit requirements, and other restrictions.
Juvenile Weapons Possession
A general overview of juvenile gun laws.
Disorderly Conduct With A Firearm
Learn about laws pertaining to disorderly conduct with a firearm, including charges and penalties.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon
Find out what the open and concealed gun carry laws are here.
Stun Gun Laws and Permit Requirements
Here you'll discover all you need to know about stun gun laws and permit requirements.
Unlawful Discharge Of A Weapon
While the right to keep and bear arms is constitutionally protected, states have long restricted how and when people can use firearms.
Using a Gun for Self Defense: Laws and Consequences
A person is entitled to use a gun for self defense in the U.S., if necessary, but laws in every state establish when a person can use force to defend himself.

Gun Laws by State

Get state specific information about gun control laws, gun permit requirements, and associated penalties.

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
D.C.
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

Questions & Answers About Gun Laws

Is my gun permit valid in other states?
Many states recognize sister states' gun permits. Learn more about these states here.
My gun permit law requires that I be competent to handle a gun. How do I prove that?
Proof that you are competent to handle a weapon varies among states, and can mean either mental competence, competence in firearm safety, or both.
How can I prove my "good moral character," which is required for a permit in California?
This usually just means submitting additional paperwork showing that you have no recent criminal charges against you.
Are adults and minors punished differently when they carry a gun into school safety zones?
Adults and minors are usually punished differently depending on the state in which you live in.
What are the requirements for getting a concealed gun permit in Florida?
Florida allows people to carry a gun only for “lawful self defense.”
Do penalties increase if I commit certain crimes while in possession of a firearm?
The fines or jail time that apply to your conviction depend on the crime you have committed and, in most states, can increase if you possessed or used a firearm when you committed the crime.
What are the penalties for providing a firearm (or making one accessible) to a minor?
Adults who provide weapons to minors are often punished, although the severity depends on the state in which you live in.
Is it illegal to possess a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs?
It is almost always a crime to possess a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance. Learn about the details here.
Can parents be punished if their child possesses a firearm?
Parents can be punished if their child possesses a firearm. The specific circumstances that incur punishment, and the penalties themselves depend on the state in which you live.
Can I be punished if someone else uses my firearm to commit a crime?
Depending on the state in which you live in and the circumstances involved, penalties incurred vary substantially.
Am I required to follow safe firearm storage practices even on my own property or in my own house?
Many states have firearm storage laws that are meant to protect children by keeping firearms locked away and out of their hands.
Which States Have Open Carry Gun Laws?
Find information on open carry laws and how they apply to your state here.
What are the penalties for a minor who possesses a firearm?
A general overview of the legality of minors in possession of guns.
Can I Carry a Gun in My Car?
Find out if you're legally allowed to carry a firearm in your car.
Can States Refuse to Follow Federal Gun Regulations?
They can but it’s unlikely their victory will be long-lived.

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