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Can I own a handgun at 18?

Can I Own a Handgun at 18?

Direct Answer

In most states in the United States, the answer is no, you cannot own a handgun at the age of 18. In fact, the federal minimum age to purchase a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer is 21 years old, as per the Gun Control Act of 1968. Additionally, many states have implemented their own minimum age laws, which often range from 18 to 21 years old.

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State-by-State Regulations

Age Requirements

StateMinimum Age to Purchase a Handgun
Alabama21
Alaska18
Arizona18
Arkansas18
California21
Colorado21
Connecticut21
Delaware21
Florida21
Georgia21
Hawaii21
Idaho18
Illinois21
Indiana18
Iowa21
Kansas18
Kentucky21
Louisiana21
Maine21
Maryland21
Massachusetts21
Michigan21
Minnesota21
Mississippi21
Missouri21
Montana18
Nebraska21
Nevada18
New Hampshire18
New Jersey21
New Mexico18
New York21
North Carolina21
North Dakota18
Ohio21
Oklahoma18
Oregon21
Pennsylvania21
Rhode Island21
South Carolina21
South Dakota18
Tennessee21
Texas18
Utah21
Vermont18
Virginia21
Washington21
West Virginia21
Wisconsin21
Wyoming18

Note: This table is subject to change as laws are updated.

Exceptions to the Rule

Exceptions

While 18 is generally the minimum age for handgun ownership, there are some exceptions to the rule:

  • Active duty military personnel: In many states, active duty military personnel can purchase handguns at 18, as a way to show appreciation for their service.
  • Reserve or National Guard members: Similarly, members of the Reserves or National Guard may be eligible to purchase handguns at 18, as part of their duty obligations.
  • Members of certain law enforcement agencies: Some states allow certain law enforcement agencies, such as local police departments, to employ individuals as young as 18 to handle firearms in the line of duty.

Consequences of Lying About Your Age

Risks and Consequences

If you attempt to purchase a handgun at 18 despite your state’s minimum age requirements, you risk criminal charges, including:

  • Misrepresentation: Attempting to misrepresent your age could result in fines and up to 5 years imprisonment.
  • Felony charges: If you try to purchase a handgun despite being underage, you may face felony charges, carrying a maximum sentence of up to 10 years.

Conclusion

In most states, owning a handgun at 18 is illegal. While some states may have exceptions, such as active duty military personnel, reserve or national guard members, or members of certain law enforcement agencies, attempting to purchase a handgun under the legal minimum age comes with serious risks and consequences. It’s essential to respect the law and adhere to the legal minimum age requirements for handgun ownership to avoid legal issues and stay safe.

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