Can You Get a Gun at 18?
In the United States, the minimum age to purchase a firearm is 21 years old, according to federal law. However, there are some exceptions and variations depending on the state and local laws. In this article, we’ll explore the complexities of purchasing a gun at 18 and what you need to know.
Federal Laws
The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a federal database that checks an individual’s criminal history, mental health, and other factors to ensure they are eligible to purchase a firearm. Under federal law, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer. For long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, the minimum age is 18 years old.
State-by-State Variations
However, state laws can override federal laws, and some states have their own laws regarding the minimum age to purchase a firearm. As of 2022, 45 states have laws that allow individuals to purchase long guns at 18 years old, while 5 states have laws that require individuals to be 21 years old to purchase long guns. Here’s a breakdown of the state-by-state variations:
| State | Minimum Age for Long Guns |
|---|---|
| AL | 18 |
| AK | 18 |
| AZ | 18 |
| AR | 18 |
| CA | 21 |
| CO | 18 |
| CT | 21 |
| DE | 21 |
| FL | 18 |
| GA | 18 |
| HI | 21 |
| ID | 18 |
| IL | 21 |
| IN | 18 |
| IA | 18 |
| KS | 18 |
| KY | 18 |
| LA | 18 |
| ME | 21 |
| MD | 21 |
| MA | 21 |
| MI | 18 |
| MN | 21 |
| MS | 18 |
| MO | 18 |
| MT | 18 |
| NE | 18 |
| NV | 18 |
| NH | 21 |
| NJ | 21 |
| NM | 18 |
| NY | 21 |
| NC | 18 |
| ND | 18 |
| OH | 18 |
| OK | 18 |
| OR | 21 |
| PA | 21 |
| RI | 21 |
| SC | 18 |
| SD | 18 |
| TN | 18 |
| TX | 18 |
| UT | 18 |
| VT | 21 |
| VA | 21 |
| WA | 21 |
| WV | 18 |
| WI | 21 |
| WY | 18 |
Background Checks
Regardless of age, all firearm purchases require a background check through the NICS. This ensures that the individual is eligible to purchase a firearm based on their criminal history and mental health status.
Exceptions
There are some exceptions to the minimum age requirements:
- Gifts: In some states, individuals can receive a firearm as a gift from a parent or legal guardian at any age.
- Inheritance: Individuals can inherit a firearm at any age, but the inheritance must be documented through a will or probate process.
- Self-Defense: In some states, individuals can possess a firearm for self-defense purposes without purchasing it, as long as they meet the state’s requirements for possessing a firearm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the minimum age to purchase a firearm in the United States is 21 years old for handguns and 18 years old for long guns, except in states where the minimum age is higher. However, there are exceptions and variations depending on state and local laws. It’s essential to research and understand the laws in your state and local jurisdiction before attempting to purchase a firearm. Remember, purchasing a firearm is a significant responsibility, and it’s crucial to ensure you meet all the legal requirements and understand the laws surrounding firearm ownership.
