New York’s strict gun laws: What residents and visitors need to know
Understanding New York’s firearm regulations is essential for compliance and public safety. This guide provides an overview of key aspects of the state’s gun laws.
Handgun Purchase: Individuals must obtain a license to purchase a handgun in New York. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete a firearms safety training course, and pass a background check.
Long Guns: Purchasing rifles and shotguns does not require a state permit; however, buyers must be at least 18 years old and pass a federal background check. Certain localities, such as New York City, may have additional requirements.
Firearm Registration
Handgun Registration: All handguns must be registered under a license. There is a $3 registration fee. Handguns are registered with a purchase permit, and the serial number and sale are recorded.
Long Guns: No state registration is required for rifles and shotguns; however, local regulations, such as those in New York City, may impose registration requirements.
Carrying and Transporting Firearms
Concealed Carry License: New York issues concealed carry licenses on a “shall issue” basis. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete a firearms safety training course, and meet specific eligibility criteria, including a background check.
Open Carry: Open carry of handguns is generally not permitted in New York. Open carry of long guns is not explicitly prohibited by state law but is generally not practiced and may be restricted by local ordinances.
Transporting Firearms: Firearms must be unloaded during transport. Handguns require a valid license for transport. Long guns should be transported unloaded and in a locked container.
Restrictions in Specific Locations
Prohibited Areas: Firearms are prohibited in certain places, including schools, government buildings, places of worship (unless authorized), public transportation, and establishments where alcohol is served. Recent legislation has expanded the list of “sensitive places” where carrying firearms is restricted.
Assault Weapons and Magazine Capacity
Assault Weapons Ban: New York prohibits the sale, transfer, and possession of certain assault weapons. Firearms classified as assault weapons must have been registered with the state by January 15, 2014, and are illegal otherwise.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine size is limited to 10 rounds. Law enforcement and retired law enforcement are exempt from the 10-round limit.
Firearm Transfers and Sales
Private Sales: For firearm transfers between private parties, a licensed dealer must conduct a background check, provide documentation of the check to the New York State Police, and keep a record of the transaction.
Dealer Sales: Licensed firearms dealers must comply with state regulations, including conducting background checks, maintaining records of all firearm sales, and adhering to waiting periods.
Red Flag Law
Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs): Family members, school officials, or law enforcement can petition courts to temporarily block someone from buying or owning a gun if they are deemed a risk to themselves or others.
Recent Legislative Updates
New Regulations for Gun Dealers: Beginning January 7, 2025, New York will mandate that gun dealers display signs informing customers about the potential dangers of gun ownership. Additionally, the state will establish a statewide registry for extreme risk protection orders.
Firearm Licensing Standards Amendments: Effective January 5, 2025, New York City has amended its firearm licensing standards to create a procedure allowing individuals who do not reside in New York State to apply for licenses within NYC, clarify procedures for registering a handgun to a person’s license, and amend limitations on the quantity of handguns that may be registered to a Concealed Carry license.
Staying informed about New York’s firearm laws is crucial for legal compliance and safety. For the most current information, consult official state resources or legal counsel.
Sources
New York State Attorney General. (n.d.). Understanding Recent Changes to New York’s Gun Laws. Retrieved from Fiscalía General de Nueva York
New York State Senate. (2025). Assembly Bill A360. Retrieved from Senado de Nueva York
Economic Times. (2024). New Year Gun Laws in US: New York, California, Other States to Have New Regulations. Retrieved from Economic Times
Wikipedia. (2024). Gun Laws in New York. Retrieved from Wikipedia
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Gun laws are subject to frequent changes and may vary in interpretation and application. We recommend consulting official state laws or seeking professional legal advice to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your situation.
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