How Long Are Gun Purchase Records Kept?
In the United States, the storage and retention period of gun purchase records are regulated by federal and state laws. The answers to this question vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of firearm purchase.
Federal Gun Purchase Records
In 1968, the Gun Control Act (GCA) was passed, requiring federal firearms licensed (FFL) dealers to keep records of firearm transactions for a minimum of 20 years. The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) was created in 1993, and it became mandatory for FFLs to conduct background checks on prospective buyers.
Retention Period
According to the GCA, FFLs must keep records of all firearm transactions, including sales, loans, and transfers, for a minimum of 20 years from the date of the transaction. These records include:
- Customer information: name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number
- Firearms information: type, caliber, and serial number
- Transaction information: date, time, and payment method
FFLs must also keep a copy of the Firearms Transaction Record (Form 4473), which is completed by the buyer and contains the aforementioned information.
State-by-State Gun Purchase Records
While the federal government has regulations regarding gun purchase records, state laws may impose additional requirements or vary the retention period. Some states have longer retention periods or specific record-keeping requirements.
Here’s a summary of gun purchase record retention periods by state:
| State | Retention Period |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 5 years |
| Alaska | 20 years |
| Arizona | 20 years |
| Arkansas | 5 years |
| California | 10 years |
| Colorado | 10 years |
| Connecticut | 20 years |
| Delaware | 5 years |
| Florida | 5 years |
| Georgia | 5 years |
| Hawaii | 20 years |
| Idaho | 5 years |
| Illinois | 5 years |
| Indiana | 20 years |
| Iowa | 20 years |
| Kansas | 20 years |
| Kentucky | 20 years |
| Louisiana | 5 years |
| Maine | 10 years |
| Maryland | 10 years |
| Massachusetts | 10 years |
| Michigan | 10 years |
| Minnesota | 10 years |
| Mississippi | 5 years |
| Missouri | 20 years |
| Montana | 10 years |
| Nebraska | 5 years |
| Nevada | 20 years |
| New Hampshire | 5 years |
| New Jersey | 20 years |
| New Mexico | 20 years |
| New York | 10 years |
| North Carolina | 5 years |
| North Dakota | 5 years |
| Ohio | 5 years |
| Oklahoma | 20 years |
| Oregon | 20 years |
| Pennsylvania | 5 years |
| Rhode Island | 20 years |
| South Carolina | 5 years |
| South Dakota | 5 years |
| Tennessee | 20 years |
| Texas | 20 years |
| Utah | 10 years |
| Vermont | 10 years |
| Virginia | 5 years |
| Washington | 10 years |
| West Virginia | 5 years |
| Wisconsin | 10 years |
| Wyoming | 5 years |
What Happens to Gun Purchase Records?
After the retention period, gun purchase records are typically destroyed. FFLs may recycle or shred paper records, while electronic records are deleted or encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.
Conclusion
The length of time that gun purchase records are kept varies depending on federal and state regulations. While the federal government requires FFLs to keep records for at least 20 years, state laws may impose additional requirements or shorter retention periods. Understanding the retention period of gun purchase records is crucial for both law enforcement and private citizens, as it ensures that these records are accessible for background checks, crime investigations, and public safety purposes.
Key Takeaways:
• Federal gun purchase records must be kept for at least 20 years from the date of the transaction.
• State gun purchase records retention periods vary, with some states having shorter or longer periods.
• FFLs must keep records of all firearm transactions, including sales, loans, and transfers.
• Records must include customer information, firearms information, and transaction information.
• Gun purchase records are typically destroyed after the retention period.
Remember to stay informed about local and national laws regarding gun purchase records and to follow the rules set by your state and the federal government.
