: A valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license) is required to prove your identity and age.
Buying a firearm in the United States involves a combination of federal laws and state-specific regulations. While federal law sets the baseline, individual states often add more rigorous steps like waiting periods or safety training. 1. Federal Baseline Requirements
Have been or committed to a mental institution. requirements for buying a gun
Regardless of which state you are in, you must meet these minimum federal standards to buy from a licensed dealer:
Under federal law, you are generally prohibited from purchasing a firearm if you: : A valid government-issued photo ID (like a
: Dealers will run your information through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) . This typically takes minutes but can be delayed for further investigation. 2. Common Disqualifiers
: You must complete ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record), which asks about your criminal history, drug use, and mental health status. This typically takes minutes but can be delayed
Many states require additional steps before you can take a firearm home: