Gun Control Laws Information
Gun Control Laws Information
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All states limit the right to purchase, own, or possess weapons to some extent, though restrictions differ widely. And many states ban minors from having guns, subject to some exceptions.
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People who may legally possess and even openly carry weapons can't always place those weapons in their pockets or otherwise conceal them without breaking the law.
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Red Flag Laws: Constitutionality and Enforcement of Extreme Risk Protection Orders
Learn about state laws that allow law enforcement, family members, and sometimes other community members to request court orders to disarm people who pose a risk of gun violence.
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Using a Gun for Self-Defense: Laws and Consequences
Laws in every state spell out when and whether you can use a gun to defend yourself or someone else.
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Unlawful Discharge of a Weapon
Unlawful discharge of a weapon crimes can be either misdemeanor or felony offenses depending on the state and the circumstances of the case.
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Gun Storage Laws in California
California gun owners must store their weapons safely and securely to keep them from children and adults who aren’t supposed to have firearms.
Questions & Answers on Firearms Possession and Registration
Questions & Answers on Firearms Possession and Registration
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Federal Firearms Ban for Domestic Violence Convictions
Under federal law, it’s a crime for someone convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor domestic violence offense to possess a firearm or ammunition.
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What Is the Legal Way to Bring a Firearm Into California?
It may be against the law to buy a gun out of state and simply drive it back to California. Learn how to bring a gun here the right way—and the penalties if you do it illegally.
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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. Many states also prohibit people from carrying a firearm into establishments that serve liquor (such as bars and nightclubs), even with a concealed carry permit, and even if you are not drinking.
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Is It Illegal to Buy a Gun for Someone Else?
Federal and state regulations determine how guns can be sold or transferred and who can receive them. Violations of these laws can result in criminal charges, so it's important to know the rules before selling or gifting a gun.
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Can I be punished if someone else uses my firearm to commit a crime?
The answer depends on which state you live in. It also depends on whether you purposely provided your gun to the person who committed the crime or if, for example, it was stolen from you.
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Federal Firearms Ban for Misdemeanor Convictions
It’s a federal crime for someone convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense to possess a firearm. What counts as a misdemeanor domestic violence offense?
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Whether you can legally carry a gun in your car depends on where you live and travel, what kind of gun you own, what kind of gun permit you have, where in the car you’ve placed the gun, and more.
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Homemade Guns: Are They Legal? Must They Be Registered?
Privately made guns, including ghost guns and 3D guns aren't heavily regulated by the federal government, but some federal restrictions still apply. And a growing number of states have outlawed untraceable homemade guns.
