All 50 states require background checks for firearm purchases, but only 22 states and Washington D.C. have extended these requirements to include private party sales and transfers.
In states that do not require background checks for private party sales, it is possible to buy a gun without a background check.
Background checks apply to all types of firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
There are limited exceptions to the background check requirement, such as transfers between immediate family members.
Federal law requires background checks for all gun purchases, including online sales.
Federal law requires background checks for all gun purchases, whether they occur at a licensed dealer or a gun show.
Some states have waiting periods for firearm purchases, but the length of the waiting period varies.
Factors such as felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, and certain mental health adjudications can disqualify someone from passing a background check.
In some cases, individuals can appeal a failed background check and have the decision overturned if there was an error in their record.
While some states require the reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), enforcement and reporting can vary.
Private individuals do not have access to the NICS system, so they cannot run background checks on potential firearm purchasers.
In states with universal background check laws, penalties may apply to individuals selling firearms without a background check.
Immigration status is not typically a factor in determining eligibility for a firearm purchase during a background check.
In some cases, individuals with prior criminal records may be eligible to pass a background check, depending on the nature of their convictions and the laws in their state.
Federal law prohibits the sale of firearms to individuals under the age of 18, and background checks are required for all firearm purchases, regardless of the purchaser’s age.
While background checks are not typically required for ammunition purchases, some states have implemented ammunition background check laws.
5/5 - (71 vote) Categories FAQNick grew up in San Diego, California, but now lives in Arizona with his wife Julie and their five boys.
He served in the military for over 15 years. In the Navy for the first ten years, where he was Master at Arms during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. He then moved to the Army, transferring to the Blue to Green program, where he became an MP for his final five years of service during Operation Iraq Freedom, where he received the Purple Heart.
He enjoys writing about all types of firearms and enjoys passing on his extensive knowledge to all readers of his articles. Nick is also a keen hunter and tries to get out into the field as often as he can.
