What I need to buy a gun in Texas?
Texas has a relatively lenient set of laws when it comes to gun ownership, with a strong culture of second amendment rights. However, before you can purchase a gun in the Lone Star State, there are some specific requirements you’ll need to meet. In this article, we’ll outline what you need to know to buy a gun in Texas.
Who is Eligible to Buy a Gun in Texas?
Before we dive into the specifics of what you’ll need to buy a gun in Texas, it’s important to note that the state has certain eligibility requirements. To purchase a gun in Texas, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun, such as a rifle or shotgun
- Be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun
- Be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident of the United States
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be under indictment for a felony
- Not be a convicted felon
- Not be mentally defective
- Not be currently committed to a mental institution or be under a court’s order to receive involuntary outpatient treatment
- Not be an illegal alien
Required Documents and Information
To purchase a gun in Texas, you’ll need to provide some required documents and information to the seller. These typically include:
- A government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport
- A copy of your birth certificate
- Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- Proof of income or employment
- A tax ID number or social security number
Background Check
In Texas, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is used to conduct background checks on prospective gun buyers. The NICS system checks for any disqualifying factors, such as felony convictions, mental health issues, or other prohibiting factors.
Permitted Locations
In Texas, guns can be purchased at:
- Licensed firearms dealers
- Gun shows
- Private sales between licensed dealers
- Online transactions (but be cautious when buying online, as you’ll need to ensure you’re buying from a licensed dealer)
What Guns are Available for Purchase?
Texas has no law restricting the types of guns that can be purchased or owned. However, federal law prohibits the sale and possession of certain types of firearms, such as fully automatic weapons and machine guns.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the standard requirements, there are a few additional things to consider when buying a gun in Texas:
- Registration: While Texas does not require gun registration, the city of Houston does. If you plan to live in Houston, you may need to register your firearms with the city.
- Waiting Period: While there is no state-mandated waiting period in Texas, some cities or counties may have their own waiting periods.
- Training: While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended that you take a gun safety course to learn about firearms handling, safety procedures, and local laws.
- Storage: Remember to store your firearms and ammunition safely and securely, out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals.
Fees and Taxes
When buying a gun in Texas, you’ll typically need to pay:
- Sales Tax: The state sales tax rate is 8.25% (with local taxes applying), but some cities may have higher rates.
- Background Check Fee: The NICS background check fee is typically around $20-$30.
- Transfer Fee: This fee varies depending on the dealer and the type of gun being purchased.
Conclusion
Buying a gun in Texas requires meeting specific eligibility requirements, providing required documents and information, undergoing a background check, and purchasing from a permitted location. Additionally, you’ll need to consider registering your firearms, waiting periods, training, and storage requirements. By understanding the laws and regulations surrounding gun ownership in Texas, you can ensure a safe and legal purchase.
