How Old Do You Have To Be To Own A Firearm?

How Old Do You Have To Be To Own A Firearm - What Age Can You Own A Gun In US - How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy A Gun - How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy A Pistol

How old do you have to be to own a firearm?

In this article, you’ll learn about: 

  • how old you have to be to own a firearm
  • how to buy a gun
  • how old you have to be to purchase a gun

Keep scrolling to learn more.

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How Old Do You Have To Be To Own A Firearm?

To own a gun in the United States, you have to be:

  • 18 years old to own a shotgun
  • 18 years old to own a rifle
  • 21 years old to own a handgun

To buy a handgun from a licensed dealer, you must be at least 21 years old. 

However, to buy a rifle or shotgun from a licensed dealer, the minimum age is 18 years old. 

It’s important to note that private sales might have different age requirements. 

Additionally, individual states can impose stricter age limits. 

As a result, always check state and local laws for specific age requirements before making a purchase.

Read More: What Happens If You Get Caught With A Ghost Gun

How To Buy A Gun

In the United States, to buy a gun:

  • Choose the type of gun you want to buy.
  • Visit a licensed firearms dealer.
  • Show valid identification proving age and residency.
  • Complete the ATF Form 4473, which is a background check form.
  • Wait for the dealer to run the background check.
  • If approved, pay for the gun.
  • Follow any waiting period or additional requirements your state might have.
  • Once all requirements are met, take possession of the gun.
  • Always store the gun safely and securely.

Read More: Can I Get In Trouble If My Gun Is Stolen

Requirements To Buy A Gun

In the United States, the requirements to buy a gun are:

  • You must be of the legal age (18 for handguns and 21 for rifles and shotguns).
  • You must pass a federal background check.
  • You fill out Form 4473 for record-keeping.
  • Certain convictions, mental health statuses, or restraining orders can disqualify you.
  • Non-U.S. citizens have specific requirements.
  • Waiting periods might apply based on state laws.
  • Some states require safety training or permits.

Keep in mind, individual state and local laws can add additional requirements or restrictions.

FAQs About How Old You Have To Be To Own A Firearm

Here are other questions we found researching the laws around firearms. 

Can An 18-Year-Old Carry A Handgun In Their Car?

Yes, an 18-year-old can carry a handgun in their car. 

In the US, federal law allows an 18-year-old to possess a handgun.

But purchasing one from a licensed dealer is prohibited until age 21. 

When it comes to carrying a handgun in a car, laws vary by state. 

Some states permit 18-year-olds to carry a handgun in their vehicle without a license.

While others require a concealed carry permit or impose other restrictions. 

To carry legally, it’s essential to check specific state laws governing handgun possession and transportation in vehicles.

How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy Bullets?

You have to be:

  • 21 years old to buy handgun bullets 
  • 18 years old to buy rifle bullets
  • 18 years old to buy shotgun shells 

Can You Buy A Handgun At 18?

No, you cannot buy a handgun at 18. 

You have to be 21 years old to buy a handgun.

Can You Buy A Rifle At 18?

Yes, you can buy a rifle at 18 years old. 

How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy A Pistol?

You have to be 21 years old to buy a pistol. 

How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy A Rifle?

You have to be 18 years old to buy a rifle. 

How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy A Shotgun?

You have to be 18 years old to buy a shotgun

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