How to Get a Gun License in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has a relatively straightforward process for obtaining a gun license, also known as a concealed carry license. If you’re interested in carrying a concealed firearm in the Sooner State, follow these steps to ensure you’re complying with all the necessary requirements.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for a concealed carry license in Oklahoma, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the state. To be eligible, you must:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a resident of Oklahoma
• Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent
• Not have been committed to a mental institution
• Not have been convicted of a felony or a crime of domestic violence
• Not be under indictment for a felony or a crime of domestic violence
• Not be a fugitive from justice
• Not be prohibited from possessing or receiving firearms under federal law
Step 2: Apply for the License
Once you’ve determined you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a concealed carry license in Oklahoma. You can submit your application online or in person at your local county sheriff’s office.
Online Application:
- Complete the online application: Visit the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) website and fill out the online application form. You’ll need to provide basic personal information, as well as proof of residency and identity.
- Pay the application fee: The online application fee is $100 for a 5-year license or $50 for a 1-year license.
- Submit your fingerprints: You’ll need to submit your fingerprints electronically or in person at a live scan location.
In-Person Application:
- Visit your local county sheriff’s office: Go to your local county sheriff’s office and complete the application form in person.
- Provide required documents: Bring the necessary documents, including proof of residency, identity, and a valid form of government-issued identification.
- Pay the application fee: The in-person application fee is $100 for a 5-year license or $50 for a 1-year license.
- Submit your fingerprints: You’ll need to provide your fingerprints at the sheriff’s office.
Step 3: Take a Firearm Safety Course (Optional)
While not required by Oklahoma law, taking a firearm safety course can be beneficial in understanding gun safety and handling. Many gun ranges and shooting schools offer these courses, which typically cover topics such as:
• Firearms safety and handling
• Safe storage and transportation of firearms
• Understanding state and federal laws regarding firearms
• Self-defense techniques and strategies
Step 4: Pass a Background Check
After submitting your application, you’ll undergo a background check conducted by the OSBI. This check will verify your identity, criminal history, and mental health status.
Step 5: Wait for Your License to Be Processed
Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your concealed carry license in the mail. This process typically takes 30-60 days, but may take longer if there are any issues with your application.
Important Information
- Concealed Carry Law: Oklahoma’s concealed carry law allows licensed individuals to carry a concealed firearm for self-defense purposes. However, there are certain areas where carrying a firearm is prohibited, such as:
- Schools and school property
- Day care centers and youth centers
- Hospitals and nursing homes
- Polling stations and election precincts
- Places where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law
- Reciprocity: Oklahoma has reciprocal agreements with several other states, allowing licensed individuals to carry their firearms in those states. However, it’s essential to check with each state’s laws and regulations regarding concealed carry before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the concealed carry license valid? The Oklahoma concealed carry license is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.
- Do I need to reapply for a concealed carry license? No, if your license is valid, you don’t need to reapply. However, you’ll need to update your address or any changes to your information on your license.
- Can I carry a firearm on school property? No, carrying a firearm on school property is prohibited in Oklahoma.
Conclusion
Obtaining a concealed carry license in Oklahoma requires meeting the eligibility criteria, applying for the license, taking a firearm safety course (optional), passing a background check, and waiting for your license to be processed. By following these steps and understanding the state’s laws and regulations regarding concealed carry, you’ll be well-prepared to exercise your Second Amendment rights in the Sooner State.