Does District of Columbia require a permit to purchase firearms?

Yes, District of Columbia requires a purchase permit for all firearms.

Is there a waiting period in District of Columbia?

Yes, District of Columbia has a mandatory waiting period for firearm purchases.

Does District of Columbia have red flag laws?

Yes, District of Columbia has an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) / red flag law.

Gun Laws in District of Columbia

Understanding District of Columbia's gun laws is essential whether you're a first-time buyer, a concealed carry holder, or an FFL dealer. Below is a summary of the key regulations that affect firearm purchase, possession, and carry in District of Columbia.

Notable: D.C. has very strict gun laws including registration of all firearms, assault weapons ban, and magazine restrictions. Very few licensed dealers operate in the District.

District of Columbia Gun Law Overview

Concealed Carry

Shall-Issue

State carry policy

Purchase Permit

Required

State purchase requirements

Key Restrictions

Waiting period, AWB, Mag limit, Red flag

State-level restrictions

Notable

D.C. has very strict gun laws including registration of all firearms, assault weapons ban, and magazine restrictions. Very few licensed dealers operate in the District.

State dealer licensing

District of Columbia requires a state dealer license in addition to the federal FFL through the DC Metropolitan Police.

Sources: ATF FFL data; NRA-ILA state law summaries; USCCA reciprocity maps. See our data sources. This is for informational purposes only and is NOT legal advice.