What are the Gun Laws in New Mexico 2023?
New Mexico has relatively permissive gun laws compared to other states in the United States. However, there are still certain restrictions and regulations that gun owners must comply with. In this article, we will provide an overview of the gun laws in New Mexico in 2023.
Permits and Licenses
Contents
Concealed Carry Permit
In New Mexico, a concealed carry permit is not required for individuals who are 21 years or older and legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, if you want to carry a concealed handgun, you must complete a firearms training course approved by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety.
Here are the requirements for a concealed carry permit in New Mexico:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a resident of New Mexico
• Be a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident
• Not have any disqualifying criminal convictions or mental health issues
• Not be under a restraining order or have a protective order against you
• Complete a firearms training course approved by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety
Firearm Purchase Permit
To purchase a firearm in New Mexico, you must obtain a firearm purchase permit from the local law enforcement agency in the county where you reside. The permit is valid for 30 days and costs $20.
Here are the requirements for a firearm purchase permit in New Mexico:
• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of New Mexico
• Not have any disqualifying criminal convictions or mental health issues
• Not be under a restraining order or have a protective order against you
Firearm Possession and Carry
Firearm Possession
In New Mexico, there are no laws prohibiting the possession of certain types of firearms, including assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, or firearms with certain features. However, there are some restrictions on the possession of firearms by certain individuals, including:
• Minors (under 18 years old): Minors are not allowed to possess firearms unless they are supervised by a parent or legal guardian.
• Felons: Felons are not allowed to possess firearms unless they have had their civil rights restored.
• Domestic violence offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of domestic violence or have a restraining order against them are not allowed to possess firearms.
Firearm Carry
In New Mexico, you can carry a firearm openly or concealed without a permit. However, there are some restrictions on where you can carry a firearm, including:
• Schools: Firearms are prohibited on school property, except for school resource officers or law enforcement personnel.
• Public buildings: Firearms are prohibited in public buildings, except for law enforcement personnel.
• Public events: Firearms are prohibited at public events, except for individuals who have a concealed carry permit and are carrying a firearm for self-defense.
Background Checks
Background Checks for Firearm Purchases
In New Mexico, background checks are required for all firearm purchases. The background check is conducted through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
Here are the requirements for a background check in New Mexico:
• The seller must verify the buyer’s identity and age
• The buyer must complete a background check form
• The seller must submit the form to the NICS
• The NICS will conduct a background check and respond to the seller within 3 business days
Other Gun Laws
Gun-Free Zones
In New Mexico, there are several gun-free zones, including:
• Schools: Firearms are prohibited on school property, except for school resource officers or law enforcement personnel.
• Public buildings: Firearms are prohibited in public buildings, except for law enforcement personnel.
• Public events: Firearms are prohibited at public events, except for individuals who have a concealed carry permit and are carrying a firearm for self-defense.
Magazine Capacity
In New Mexico, there is no magazine capacity limit for firearms.
Assault Weapons
In New Mexico, there is no ban on assault weapons. However, there are some restrictions on the sale and possession of certain types of firearms, including:
• Rifles with a folding or collapsible stock
• Rifles with a flash suppressor or silencer
• Rifles with a bayonet mount
Table: New Mexico Gun Laws
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| Concealed Carry Permit | Not required for individuals 21 years or older and legally allowed to possess a firearm |
| Firearm Purchase Permit | Required for individuals 18 years or older to purchase a firearm |
| Firearm Possession | No laws prohibiting possession of certain types of firearms, including assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, or firearms with certain features |
| Firearm Carry | Can carry a firearm openly or concealed without a permit, except in certain areas such as schools, public buildings, and public events |
| Background Checks | Required for all firearm purchases through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) |
| Gun-Free Zones | Several areas where firearms are prohibited, including schools, public buildings, and public events |
| Magazine Capacity | No magazine capacity limit for firearms |
| Assault Weapons | No ban on assault weapons, but some restrictions on the sale and possession of certain types of firearms |
Conclusion
New Mexico has relatively permissive gun laws compared to other states in the United States. While there are some restrictions on the possession and carry of firearms, there are no laws prohibiting the possession of certain types of firearms, including assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, or firearms with certain features. It is important for gun owners to comply with all applicable laws and regulations to avoid legal consequences.
