Purchases

Requirements to purchase a shotgun or rifle

• Must be 18 years old
• Have a valid non-expired government-issued driver’s license or identification card
• This documentation must reflect your current living address
• A background check using the FBI NICS System will be performed by the firearm dealer on the day you wish to purchase your firearm.
• If applicable, you may use your valid non-expired NC Concealed Carry Permit or NC Pistol Purchase Permit in replace of this background check.

Requirements to purchase a handgun

These handgun requirements include the purchase of a handgun, pistol or revolver. Keep in mind that some firearms that may look like a rifle are classified as a pistol based on their barrel size or type of brace; these firearms also fall under these same requirements.

• Must be 21+ years old
• Have a valid, non-expired NC Driver’s License or NC Identification Card
• This documentation must reflect your current living address
• Have a valid, non-expired permit
• North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit – the address on this permit must reflect the same address as your photo identification or you must have a change of address card which was supplied by your Sheriff’s Office.
• If you do not have a North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit you can still purchase a handgun with a background check using the FBI NICS System conducted on the purchaser on the day you wish to purchase your firearm.