What Age Can I Buy a Handgun in Louisiana?
In the United States, the purchase of firearms is heavily regulated to ensure public safety. The minimum age requirement to buy a handgun varies from state to state, and in Louisiana, the laws surrounding gun ownership are specific and strictly enforced. In this article, we will explore the answer to the question, What age can I buy a handgun in Louisiana? and delve deeper into the regulations surrounding firearms in the state.
Age Requirement
According to the Louisiana Revised Statute 26:28, to purchase a handgun, an individual must be at least 21 years old. This law applies to all residents and non-residents of Louisiana.
Federal Law
It is important to note that while Louisiana state law requires an individual to be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun, federal law requires an individual to be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun (such as a rifle or shotgun) or a handgun.
Prohibited Persons
Under Louisiana law, there are certain individuals who are prohibited from purchasing or owning firearms, including:
- Persons under the age of 21 (except for members of the military and certain federal law enforcement personnel)
- Persons who have been convicted of a felony
- Persons who are mentally ill or have a history of mental illness
- Persons who are chemically dependent or have a history of chemical dependency
- Persons who are currently addicted to or are under the influence of drugs or other controlled substances
- Persons who are under a domestic restraining order
- Persons who have been convicted of certain domestic violence offenses
- Persons who are undocumented aliens or non-citizens of the United States
Background Checks
To purchase a handgun in Louisiana, an individual must undergo a background check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The check will reveal any prior criminal convictions, mental health issues, or other factors that may prohibit the individual from purchasing or owning a firearm.
Permitted Dealers
To purchase a handgun in Louisiana, an individual must go through a permitted firearms dealer, also known as a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). FFLs are authorized by the ATF to conduct background checks and ensure that firearms are sold to eligible purchasers.
Handgun Restrictions
In addition to the minimum age requirement, Louisiana has other restrictions on handguns, including:
- Ammunition: Ammunition must be packaged with the handgun or separately at the time of sale.
- Semi-Automatic Pistols: Semi-automatic pistols must be sold with a 10-round capacity magazine, or with a secure gun storage or safety device, or with a child access prevention lock.
- Private Sales: Private sales of handguns are permitted in Louisiana, but the buyer and seller must undergo a background check through a law enforcement agency.
Additional Regulations
Louisiana also has other regulations regarding the sale and ownership of firearms, including:
- Storage Requirements: Handguns must be stored in a safe, locked container, and all firearms must be secured in a way that makes it impossible for an unauthorized person to access them.
- Torch Law: Louisiana has a "Torch Law" that allows police to confiscate a handgun if it is possessed in a place where the possessor does not have the legal right to possess the handgun.
- Unlicensed Firearms Dealers: Individuals who are not licensed FFLs may not sell firearms to anyone, even private collectors.
Penalties
Failure to comply with Louisiana’s handgun laws and regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Table: Age Requirement for Firearms in Louisiana
| Age Requirement | Louisiana | Federal |
|---|---|---|
| Long Guns | – | 18 years old |
| Handguns | 21 years old | 18 years old (if member of military or certain federal law enforcement personnel) |
Conclusion
In Louisiana, the minimum age to buy a handgun is 21 years old. To purchase a handgun, an individual must undergo a background check through the NICS and go through a permitted FFL. Louisiana also has other restrictions and regulations on handguns, including ammunition capacity, private sales, and storage requirements. Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding handguns in Louisiana is essential for individuals who wish to purchase and own firearms.
