Does Arizona Have a Waiting Period for Handguns?
Arizona, like many other states in the United States, has laws governing the purchase, sale, and possession of handguns. One of the most important aspects of handgun ownership is the waiting period, which is the period of time between the sale of a handgun and its delivery to the buyer.
Waiting Period for Handguns in Arizona
Arizona does not have a universal waiting period for handguns. According to Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 13-3102, which governs the sale and transfer of firearms, sellers are not required to implement a waiting period before selling a handgun to a licensed buyer.
Exceptions
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
• Background Check Required: All handgun sales are subject to a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check helps to ensure that the buyer is not prohibited from possessing a firearm due to criminal history, mental health concerns, or other factors.
• Three-Day Right to Cancel: In the event that a buyer exercises their right to cancel the sale, the seller may require a three-day right to cancel period. During this time, the seller may choose to cancel the sale and refund the buyer’s deposit.
• Local Ordinances: Some cities and towns within Arizona may have their own ordinances regulating the sale and possession of handguns. In these cases, local ordinances may require a waiting period or other restrictions.
Other Considerations
Even though Arizona does not have a universal waiting period, there are other considerations buyers should be aware of when purchasing a handgun:
• Dealer Requirements: Dealers are required to conduct background checks and maintain records of all sales.
• Serial Number Requirements: Firearms dealers are required to use a serial number on the handgun, which helps authorities trace the weapon in case it is used in a crime.
• Fingerprinting: Some local law enforcement agencies may require buyers to provide fingerprints, which can help identify them in case the handgun is used in a crime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arizona does not have a universal waiting period for handguns. However, sellers are still required to conduct background checks and maintain records of all sales. While there are some exceptions, such as the three-day right to cancel period and local ordinances, buyers should be aware of these regulations when purchasing a handgun in Arizona.
Table: Arizona Handgun Laws at a Glance
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| Background Check | Required through NICS |
| Three-Day Right to Cancel | Applies if buyer exercises right to cancel |
| Local Ordinances | Vary by city or town; may require waiting period |
| Dealer Requirements | Conductor background checks and maintain records |
| Serial Number Requirements | Use serial number on the handgun |
| Fingerprinting | Optional; required by some local law enforcement |
Conclusion
Arizona’s laws regulating handguns are designed to promote public safety while also recognizing the rights of law-abiding citizens to own firearms. By understanding the exceptions and considerations outlined in this article, buyers can better navigate the process of purchasing a handgun in Arizona and ensure compliance with state and local laws.
