How to Purchase a Handgun in NJ: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re a resident of New Jersey and interested in purchasing a handgun, there are several steps you’ll need to follow to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations. In this article, we’ll break down the process into manageable parts, providing you with a clear understanding of what’s required to buy a handgun in the Garden State.
Who Can Purchase a Handgun in NJ?
Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand who is eligible to purchase a handgun in New Jersey. According to the state’s laws, the following individuals are prohibited from owning or purchasing a handgun:
• Convicted felons: Those who have been convicted of a felony, including federal and state crimes, are not eligible to own or purchase a handgun.
• Mental health professionals: Individuals who have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution or found to be mentally defective by a court are prohibited from owning or purchasing a handgun.
• Domestic abusers: Individuals who have been convicted of a domestic violence offense or are subject to a restraining order are not eligible to own or purchase a handgun.
• Undocumented immigrants: Individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States are not eligible to own or purchase a handgun.
Step 1: Meet the Age Requirement
To purchase a handgun in New Jersey, you must be at least 21 years old.
Step 2: Obtain a Firearms ID Card
To purchase a handgun in New Jersey, you’ll need to obtain a Firearms ID Card from the New Jersey State Police. To apply for a Firearms ID Card, you’ll need to:
• Fill out the application form: You can download the application form from the New Jersey State Police website or pick one up from a local police department.
• Provide identification: You’ll need to provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Pay the application fee: The application fee for a Firearms ID Card is $20.
Step 3: Pass a Background Check
Once you’ve submitted your application for a Firearms ID Card, you’ll need to undergo a background check. The background check is conducted by the New Jersey State Police and includes a review of your criminal history, mental health records, and other relevant information.
Step 4: Purchase the Handgun
Once you’ve received your Firearms ID Card and cleared the background check, you can purchase a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer. You’ll need to provide the following information to the dealer:
• Your Firearms ID Card: You’ll need to present your Firearms ID Card to the dealer as proof of your identity and eligibility to purchase a handgun.
• Your background check results: You’ll need to provide a copy of your background check results to the dealer.
Step 5: Register the Handgun
After purchasing a handgun, you’ll need to register it with the New Jersey State Police. You can do this by:
• Completing the registration form: You can download the registration form from the New Jersey State Police website or pick one up from a local police department.
• Providing the required information: You’ll need to provide the make, model, and serial number of the handgun, as well as your name and address.
• Paying the registration fee: The registration fee for a handgun is $25.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the above steps, there are several other requirements you’ll need to meet when purchasing a handgun in New Jersey:
• Safety course: You’ll need to complete a firearms safety course before purchasing a handgun.
• Waiting period: There is a 10-day waiting period before you can take possession of a handgun after purchasing it.
• Storage requirements: You’ll need to store your handgun in a secure location, such as a gun safe or lockbox.
Conclusion
Purchasing a handgun in New Jersey requires careful attention to detail and compliance with state laws and regulations. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and safely acquire a handgun. Remember to always prioritize responsible gun ownership and storage.
Table: Handgun Registration Requirements
| Information Required | Form | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Make, model, and serial number of the handgun | Firearms Registration Form | $25 |
| Your name and address |
Bullets: Additional Requirements
• Safety course: Complete a firearms safety course before purchasing a handgun.
• Waiting period: There is a 10-day waiting period before you can take possession of a handgun after purchasing it.
• Storage requirements: Store your handgun in a secure location, such as a gun safe or lockbox.
