Get a Gun License in North Carolina

In order to purchase a gun in the state of North Carolina, you must obtain a gun permit. Licensing regulations vary, but to get a gun permit, you must apply in the county in North Carolina in which you reside. Because different counties have different application processes, you will need to contact your county's sheriff's office or the clerk of superior court to obtain specific instructions on the requirements for obtaining a license to hold a gun. The following general guidelines will help you find the resources to get a gun license in your county in North Carolina.

Steps

  1. Understand the laws regulating the use of pistols, rifles, shotguns and crossbows. You must check with the jurisdiction in which you will be using the firearm to find out the specific laws. Different cities or counties within North Carolina will have different laws governing gun use. Be aware of these before using a gun.
  2. Determine if you qualify to carry a concealed weapon. In 1995, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a concealed handgun law. In order to obtain this license, you must be 21 years of age, be a resident of the county in which you are applying, have a valid North Carolina driver's license, not suffer from any mental or physical disabilities that would hinder your ability to operate a handgun, and pass a firearms safety and training course, as well as a criminal background check.
    • Realize that if you are not qualified to carry a concealed weapon, you will have to carry your gun in plain sight at all times.
  3. Apply for your gun license in person at either the county sheriff's office or the clerk of superior court of your county. Your city or county government website will provide information on which office handles gun permits.
    • Go to the correct office and request an application to purchase a handgun.
    • Provide the following information on the application: proof of citizenship, proof that you are at least 21 years old, proof of residency in the county in which you are applying, and a valid North Carolina driver's license.
    • Provide the necessary information in order for the office to conduct a background check. This will include your full name, recent addresses and a Social Security number. Background checks may take up to 90 days.
    • Pay the fee for the gun license application, which may vary by county.
  4. Apply for your concealed weapon license at the same office if you qualify to hold that license.
    • Make an appointment at the office and indicate that you wish to obtain a concealed weapon permit.
    • Fill out the necessary information required to apply for the license and provide documentation. This will include your full name, a driver's license, proof of age and residency, your mental and physical condition, and information for a criminal background check, including recent addresses and your Social Security number.
    • Provide a verifiable training certificate to show you have completed gun safety and training. This will be a certificate from a licensed gun training center. You also may need the signature of the licensed firearm instructor.
    • Pay the non-refundable fee for the concealed weapon license. This fee will vary, but will be more than the fee for the application to purchase a gun.

Tips

  • Learning to operate a gun is always recommended before purchasing one. It is not recommended that you purchase a firearm without investing the time in training.

Warnings

  • Always store guns and ammunition responsibly, and away from the reach of children.
  • You must carry your permit and inform any officer of the law that you hold a permit and a weapon. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges.

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