Buying a gun in the USA: your questions, answered straight.
The most-searched questions about gun purchases in the United States — legality, background checks, FFL transfers, age limits, and state rules — answered plainly, with no legal jargon.
Legality & Basics
Is it legal to buy a gun?
The questions almost every first-time buyer searches before they buy — starting with the basics.
Is it legal to buy a gun in the USA?
Yes. Buying a firearm is legal under federal law for eligible buyers, whether purchased in person or online. State and local laws can add extra rules on top of federal requirements, so what’s legal can vary depending on where you live.
Is it legal to buy a gun online?
Yes. Buying a firearm online is completely legal under federal law. The gun must ship to a licensed FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer near the buyer, who completes the required background check and transfer in person — it can never ship directly to your home.
How old do you have to be to buy a gun?
Federally, you must be 18 or older to buy a rifle or shotgun, and 21 or older to buy a handgun from a licensed dealer. Some states set higher minimum ages for certain firearm types.
Do you need a license to buy a gun?
In most states, no separate firearm purchase license is required — you complete a background check at the point of sale instead. A small number of states do require a permit or license before you can buy certain firearms, so it’s worth checking your state’s specific rules.
Can I buy a gun from another state?
Yes, for long guns (rifles/shotguns) this is generally allowed if legal in both states. Handguns purchased out-of-state must ship to a licensed FFL dealer in the buyer’s home state for transfer — you can’t take a handgun home directly from an out-of-state seller.
Background Checks
How do background checks work?
Do you need a background check to buy a gun?
Yes, when buying from a licensed dealer (FFL), a background check through the FBI’s NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) is required by federal law, regardless of whether the sale happened online or in person.
How long does a gun background check take?
Most NICS background checks are completed within minutes. In some cases, a check can be delayed for further review, which by law can take up to 3 business days before a dealer may proceed at their discretion.
What shows up on a gun background check?
The NICS check screens for felony convictions, certain domestic violence convictions, active protective orders, involuntary mental health commitments, and other federally prohibited categories under the Gun Control Act.
Can a felon buy a gun?
Generally, no — federal law prohibits individuals convicted of a felony from purchasing or possessing firearms. Rights restoration is possible in some states through specific legal processes, but it does not happen automatically.
Is there a waiting period to buy a gun?
There’s no federal waiting period — if your background check clears, you can take possession the same day. Some states impose their own mandatory waiting periods (commonly a few days), separate from the background check itself.
Buying Online & FFL Transfers
How does an FFL transfer work?
The part that confuses most first-time online buyers — here’s the process in plain terms.
What is an FFL transfer?
An FFL transfer is the legally required process of a firearm passing from an online seller to a licensed local dealer, who then completes your background check and hands the firearm to you in person. It’s the step that makes online firearm sales legal and traceable.
Can a gun be shipped straight to my house?
No. Firearms purchased online must ship to a licensed FFL dealer, never directly to a buyer’s residence. Ammunition and accessories can typically ship directly to your home in most states.
How much does an FFL transfer fee cost?
FFL transfer fees vary among the 58,000+ licensed dealers nationwide, but typically average around $25. Contact your chosen FFL directly for their exact fee and any added requirements.
How do I find an FFL dealer near me?
Most online gun retailers, including FirearmApex, let you search or enter your zip code at checkout to find nearby licensed FFL dealers who accept transfers. You can also search the ATF’s public FFL license database directly.
What do I need to bring to pick up my firearm?
A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) is required. Some FFLs may also ask for proof of residency, especially if your ID address doesn’t match your current address.
Cost & Selection
What should I know before choosing a gun?
What’s the best gun for a first-time buyer?
It depends entirely on intended use — home defense, hunting, concealed carry, or range/sport shooting each favor different firearm types. A .22LR handgun or a 12-gauge pump shotgun are commonly recommended starting points for new shooters due to manageable recoil and cost. Browse our current inventory to compare options.
How much does a gun cost?
Entry-level handguns and rifles typically start around $300–$500, mid-range firearms run $500–$1,200, and premium or specialty models can exceed $2,000. Ammunition, a case, and cleaning supplies are additional ongoing costs.
Do I need a concealed carry permit to buy a gun?
No — a concealed carry permit is only required to legally carry a concealed handgun in public, not to purchase one. Purchase eligibility and carry eligibility are governed by separate rules.
Can I buy ammunition online?
Yes, in most states ammunition can be purchased online and shipped directly to your home, unlike firearms. A few states restrict or regulate online ammunition sales separately — check your state’s specific rules before ordering.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Firearm laws vary by state and change over time. Always confirm current requirements with your state attorney general’s office, a licensed FFL dealer, or a qualified attorney before making a purchase.