How old do you have to be to buy a gun? [2022]

The gun control debate has been re-ignited in the wake of several mass shootings. One question that always comes up is what the age limit should be for purchasing a firearm. In this article, we will explore the current age requirements for buying a gun in the United States and see if they are likely to change in the next few years.

Table of Contents:

Age Restrictions on Buying Firearms

In the United States, the age restrictions on buying firearms vary by state.

However, the minimum age to buy a gun from a licensed dealer is 21 for pistols. If you want to buy a rifle, it is currently 18.

There are some exceptions to the age limit for buying guns.

For example, if you are a member of the military or a law enforcement officer, you may be able to buy a gun at a younger age. In addition, some states have laws that allow minors to buy guns for hunting or other purposes.

Overall, the age restrictions on buying firearms are designed to keep guns out of the hands of minors.

By raising the minimum age to 21 years old, it is hoped that fewer young people will have access to firearms.

Federal Law of Age Limit for Purchasing Firearms

The federal law on purchasing firearms is governed by the Gun Control Act of 1968.

According to this law, individuals must be at least 21 years of age to buy a handgun from a licensed dealer.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For instance, individuals 18 or older may purchase a firearm from a private seller.

In addition to federal law, each state has its laws regarding the purchase of firearms.

Some states have stricter laws than federal law, while others have more lenient laws.

It is essential to check the laws in your state before attempting to purchase a gun.

State Law of Age Limit for Purchasing Firearms

In the United States, the minimum age for purchasing a gun is 21.

This is a federal law that applies to all states.

There are some exceptions to this rule, however.

For example, people who are 18 years old can purchase a gun if they have a valid hunting license.

Some states have laws that are even stricter than federal law. In California, for example, the minimum age for purchasing a gun is 21.

Some other requirements must be met to purchase a gun in California. For example, buyers must undergo a background check and complete a safety course.

The minimum age for purchasing a gun in the United States is 21. This rule has some exceptions, but most states require buyers to be at least 21 years old.

Gun type

There are many different types of guns, and each style has its age restrictions.

For example, handguns can be purchased by anyone over 21.

However, other types of guns, such as assault rifles, can only be purchased by people over 18.

In general, the age requirements for purchasing a gun are set by the state where you live.

So, it is essential to check the laws in your state before attempting to buy a gun.

Where to buy a gun

In the United States, anyone over 18 can purchase a gun from a licensed dealer. However, some states have laws restricting the sale of guns to minors.

For example, in Illinois, it is illegal to sell a gun to anyone under the age of 21.

In addition to state laws, federal laws also regulate the sale of guns.

The Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 prohibits the sale of guns to anyone under the age of 21. This law applies to all states in the United States.

So, if you want to buy a gun in the United States, you must be over 21 and follow all state and federal laws regarding gun sales.

How to buy a gun

In the United States, you must be 21 years old to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer.

You can also buy a gun from an unlicensed seller, but there are restrictions.

For example, you must be 18 years old and pass a background check.

If you want to buy a rifle or shotgun, you must be 18 years old.

There are no federal laws restricting the sale of long guns to minors, but some states have their rules.

For example, in California, you must be 21 years old to purchase a rifle or shotgun from a licensed dealer.

You can also purchase guns online or at gun shows. However, there are some restrictions on these sales.

For example, you must be 21 years old to purchase a handgun from an online dealer. And, if you buy a gun at a gun show, you must undergo a background check.

Conclusion

As of 2022, you must be 21 years old to purchase a gun in the United States, though there are exceptions varied by state.

This age requirement applies to both handguns and rifles. If you are under 21 years old, you may still possess a firearm if given to you as a gift or inheritance, but you will not be able to buy one from a licensed dealer.

There are some exceptions to this rule for active military personnel and law enforcement officers.