Can You get a gun at 18 in NJ?

Can You Get a Gun at 18 in NJ?

In the United States, the minimum legal age to purchase a handgun is 21 years old, as mandated by federal law. However, certain states have their own firearms laws, which may relax or restrict the age limit to obtain a gun. So, can you get a gun at 18 in NJ? Let’s dig deeper to find out.

Federal Law

On December 17, 2018, the "Fix NICS" amendment to the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Communities Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump. Among other provisions, the legislation increased the minimum age limit for purchasing a handgun to 21 years old for individuals who are not license gun dealers. This meant that individuals under the age of 21 could only purchase a handgun through a licensed firearms dealer, where they would need to present a valid government-issued ID and undergo a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) review.

New Jersey Firearms Laws

New Jersey is one of the states that has stricter firearms laws, and it is not exceptions to the federal law’s age limit. According to New Jersey Statute, 2C:39-5, a person must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun or any other firearm. Similarly, the New Jersey Superior Court has ruled that selling a firearm to a person under 21 years old violates the state’s firearms statutes.

Exceptions

However, there are some limited exceptions to New Jersey’s firearms laws regarding the age limit:

• Active Military Personnel: Active military personnel who meet certain requirements can purchase handguns or other firearms at a licensed firearms dealer, regardless of age.

• Law Enforcement Officials: Law enforcement officials or sworn officers, as defined by New Jersey law, are exempt from the age limit and may purchase firearms for official or personal use.

• Competitive Shooters and Hunters: Certain individuals engaged in competitive target shooting or hunting as part of a recognized firearms club or organization may apply for a special permit or license to purchase firearms from a licensed dealer.

Keep in mind that these exceptions are limited and require specific criteria to be met.

Background Checks and Waiting Periods

In New Jersey, all firearms purchases require a background check through the NICS system, which is conducted by licensed firearms dealers. Additionally, there is a federal waiting period of up to 10 business days for the background check and transfer of the firearm. This waiting period was introduced to ensure that an individual is not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a criminal history or mental health issues.

Licensing and Registration

Individuals who wish to legally own a firearm in New Jersey must obtain a permit or license to carry a firearm through the New Jersey State Police. This permit is known as a Firearm Purchaser Identification Card, which requires a background check and is valid for two years. Additionally, any firearm purchased must be registered with the police department in the township or municipality where the resident resides.

Conclusion

In conclusion, under 21-year-olds in New Jersey cannot legally obtain a gun, as New Jersey law aligns with federal law and prohibits firearms sales to individuals under this age. While there may be limited exceptions for military personnel, law enforcement, and competitive shooters, for the general public, a minimum age of 21 is required to purchase, own, or possess firearms in the state. This article has provided an in-depth look at New Jersey’s firearms laws and guidelines for individuals interested in possessing or purchasing firearms in the state.

Table Summary:

Bullets Summary:

• A person must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun or any other firearm in New Jersey
• There are limited exceptions for active military personnel, law enforcement officials, and competitive shooters
• Federal and state laws align with regard to the minimum age limit for firearms purchases and ownership
• Background checks and waiting periods are standard for all firearms transactions