What is Needed to Buy a Handgun in Colorado?
Colorado is one of the states with strict gun laws, and purchasing a handgun in the state requires compliance with these regulations. If you’re interested in buying a handgun in Colorado, here’s what you need to know:
Background Check
The first and most important step in buying a handgun in Colorado is to undergo a background check. This is a mandatory requirement for all firearm purchases in the state. You’ll need to submit to a background check through a licensed firearms dealer, who will conduct the check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Age Requirement
To purchase a handgun in Colorado, you must be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 21, you’ll need to wait until you turn 21 to buy a handgun.
Residency Requirement
You don’t need to be a resident of Colorado to buy a handgun, but you’ll need to provide proof of residency if you’re a non-resident. A valid Colorado driver’s license or ID card is acceptable proof of residency.
Identification
You’ll need to provide valid identification to purchase a handgun in Colorado. Acceptable forms of identification include:
• Valid Colorado driver’s license
• Valid Colorado ID card
• Valid U.S. passport
• Valid government-issued ID card (e.g., military ID, government employee ID)
Proof of Age
You’ll need to provide proof of age to purchase a handgun in Colorado. Acceptable forms of proof of age include:
• Valid Colorado driver’s license
• Valid Colorado ID card
• Valid U.S. passport
• Valid government-issued ID card (e.g., military ID, government employee ID)
Fingerprinting
You’ll need to provide fingerprints as part of the background check process. The licensed firearms dealer will take your fingerprints and submit them to the CBI and FBI for processing.
Waiting Period
Colorado has a 72-hour waiting period for handgun purchases. This means that you’ll need to wait at least 72 hours after submitting your application before you can take possession of the handgun.
Application Process
Here’s an overview of the application process for buying a handgun in Colorado:
- Find a licensed firearms dealer: Look for a licensed firearms dealer in your area who is willing to conduct a background check.
- Choose a handgun: Select the handgun you want to purchase from the dealer’s inventory.
- Fill out the application: Complete the application form provided by the dealer, which will include your personal information, address, and other relevant details.
- Provide identification and proof of age: Provide the required identification and proof of age documents.
- Pay the fee: Pay the application fee, which is typically around $10 to $20.
- Wait for the background check: Wait for the background check to be completed, which can take up to 72 hours.
- Pick up the handgun: Once the background check is complete, you can pick up the handgun from the dealer.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the above requirements, there are some additional regulations you should be aware of when buying a handgun in Colorado:
• Handgun safety course: Some counties in Colorado require handgun buyers to complete a safety course before purchasing a handgun.
• Permit requirements: Some cities and counties in Colorado require handgun buyers to obtain a permit before purchasing a handgun.
• Storage requirements: You’ll need to store your handgun safely and securely, and you may need to obtain a safe storage device.
Conclusion
Buying a handgun in Colorado requires compliance with strict regulations, including a background check, age requirement, residency requirement, identification, and proof of age. Additionally, there may be other requirements depending on your location and the type of handgun you’re purchasing. By understanding these requirements, you can ensure a smooth and legal purchase process.
