How Old Do You Have to Be to Own a Gun?
In the United States, the minimum age to purchase and own a gun varies depending on the state and the type of firearm. Federal law sets a minimum age of 18 for the purchase of rifles and shotguns, while the minimum age for handguns is 21. However, some states have their own laws that may be more restrictive.
Federal Laws
Under federal law, individuals must be at least 18 years old to purchase a rifle or shotgun from a licensed firearms dealer. This is because these types of firearms are generally considered to be less dangerous and are often used for hunting and sport shooting. However, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer.
State Laws
State laws regarding the minimum age to own a gun can vary significantly. Some states have no minimum age requirement, while others may have a minimum age of 18, 21, or even 25. The following table summarizes the minimum age requirements for purchasing and owning a gun in each state:
| State | Minimum Age to Purchase and Own a Gun |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Alaska | 18 (all firearms) |
| Arizona | 18 (all firearms) |
| Arkansas | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| California | 21 (all firearms) |
| Colorado | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Connecticut | 21 (all firearms) |
| Delaware | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Florida | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Georgia | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Hawaii | 21 (all firearms) |
| Idaho | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Illinois | 21 (all firearms) |
| Indiana | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Iowa | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Kansas | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Kentucky | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Louisiana | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Maine | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Maryland | 21 (all firearms) |
| Massachusetts | 21 (all firearms) |
| Michigan | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Minnesota | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Mississippi | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Missouri | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Montana | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Nebraska | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Nevada | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| New Hampshire | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| New Jersey | 21 (all firearms) |
| New Mexico | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| New York | 21 (all firearms) |
| North Carolina | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| North Dakota | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Ohio | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Oklahoma | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Oregon | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Pennsylvania | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Rhode Island | 21 (all firearms) |
| South Carolina | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| South Dakota | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Tennessee | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Texas | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Utah | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Vermont | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Virginia | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Washington | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| West Virginia | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Wisconsin | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
| Wyoming | 18 (rifle/shotgun), 21 (handgun) |
Special Considerations
In addition to the minimum age requirements, there are other factors to consider when it comes to owning a gun in the United States. These include:
- Background Checks: All gun purchases in the United States are subject to a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check is designed to ensure that the individual purchasing the gun is not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a criminal history or other factors.
- Mental Health: Some states have laws that prohibit individuals with certain mental health conditions from owning a gun. These laws are designed to prevent individuals who may be a risk to themselves or others from obtaining a firearm.
- Training: Some states require individuals who wish to own a gun to complete a training course or demonstrate a certain level of proficiency with the firearm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the minimum age to own a gun in the United States varies depending on the state and the type of firearm. Federal law sets a minimum age of 18 for the purchase of rifles and shotguns, while the minimum age for handguns is 21. State laws can be more restrictive, with some states having a minimum age of 21 or even 25. It is important for individuals who wish to own a gun to familiarize themselves with the laws and regulations in their state and to ensure that they meet all of the necessary requirements.
