FIREARM OWNERSHIP RESTRICTIONS BY STATE

Magazine Capacity Restrictions by State (Quick Reference)

Firearm magazine capacity laws vary by state. The information below provides a general reference for states with magazine capacity restrictions. Local jurisdictions may have additional requirements. See the individual state sections below for more detailed information.

10-Round Magazine Limits

California
Connecticut
Hawaii (handguns only)
Illinois (long guns only)
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Jersey
New York
Vermont (long guns only)
Washington
Washington, DC

15-Round Magazine Limits

Colorado (statewide, with exceptions)
Illinois (handguns)
Vermont (handguns only)

Other Limits

Vermont: Long guns limited to 10 rounds; handguns limited to 15 rounds.
Colorado: Rifles and pistols limited to 15 rounds; shotguns limited to 8 shells. Exceptions apply for tubular magazines on .22 caliber firearms and lever-action firearms.

*Important: Local jurisdictions may have additional restrictions. See the state-specific sections below for additional requirements, exemptions, and pending legislation. Firearm laws change frequently. This guide includes known restrictions and requirements by jurisdiction, including recent legislation, effective dates, and laws currently affected by litigation. Always verify current requirements before completing a firearm transaction.

States and cities that restrict firearms:

California Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons and Restricted Firearms: California prohibits assault weapons, including certain semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features. Ghost guns and certain unserialized firearms are also prohibited. Effective January 1, 2026, AB 1263 further restricts certain firearm precursor parts and related products.
Effective July 1, 2026, AB 1127 prohibits licensed dealers from selling, offering, exchanging, giving, transferring, or delivering a semiautomatic machinegun-convertible pistol.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.
Handgun Roster: California maintains a state-approved handgun roster that limits which new handguns may be sold by licensed dealers.
Forced Reset Triggers: California restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms. A California Firearm Safety Certificate is generally required.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed California FFL. California requires a 10-day waiting period for approved firearm transfers. Dealers cannot complete the transfer until California Department of Justice approval is received.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition purchases require a background check through a California FFL. Ammunition shipments must generally go through a licensed California vendor unless the recipient qualifies for an exemption, such as holding an FFL03 and Certificate of Eligibility. Direct shipment of ammunition from another state to a typical California resident remains prohibited.
Firearm Barrel Restrictions: Effective January 1, 2026, SB 704 establishes additional requirements regarding firearm barrel transfers. Standalone firearm barrels may not be sold or transferred except through required dealer procedures and applicable exemptions.
New Resident Registration: New residents bringing California-approved firearms into the state must register them within 60 days.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms with a frame or receiver may require a DROS transaction and background check if they are breech-loading or capable of accepting, or being converted to accept, conventional ammunition cartridges currently available in the United States. True antique firearms are exempt.
Dealer Requirements: California firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements. Effective January 1, 2026, AB 1263 and SB 704 expand certain FFL responsibilities involving notices, purchaser acknowledgments, identity verification, and controlled delivery requirements for firearm precursor parts and related products.

Colorado Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Colorado has certain assault weapon restrictions and local limitations. Denver County has additional restrictions on assault weapons. Certain non-compliant AR and AK-style pistols may be prohibited. Local regulations may vary by jurisdiction.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 15 rounds, excluding tubular magazines for .22 caliber firearms and lever-action firearms. Shotgun capacity is limited to a maximum of 8 shells or a total shell length exceeding 28 inches. Unincorporated Boulder County has a 10-round magazine capacity restriction applicable to FFLs and residents selling, purchasing, or possessing magazines; enforcement is currently affected by litigation.
Forced Reset Triggers: Colorado restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms. Exceptions apply for certain active-duty military members and certified peace officers between 18 and 20 years old for qualifying long gun purchases.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed FFL. Dealers must receive a "Proceed" or approval confirmation before completing a transfer.
Colorado requires a mandatory three-day waiting period for firearm transfers. The waiting period begins from the initiation of the background check or when approval is received, whichever occurs later. Pawn redemptions, concealed handgun license holders, law enforcement, and active-duty military personnel are not exempt from the waiting period.
Ammunition Requirements: Effective July 1, 2026, HB 25-1133 increases ammunition purchase age requirements to 21 with certain exceptions and establishes controlled access storage requirements.
Semiautomatic Firearms Permit Requirements: Effective August 1, 2026, SB 25-003 establishes additional requirements involving approved safety training before transfer of certain specified semiautomatic firearms.
Taxation: A 6.5% excise tax applies to retail sales of firearms, ammunition, and firearm parts effective April 1, 2025.
Dealer Requirements: Colorado firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

Connecticut Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Connecticut restricts certain semiautomatic rifles, shotguns, and handguns classified as assault weapons. Restricted firearms may include semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines and features such as folding or telescoping stocks, pistol grips, forward grips, flash suppressors, threaded barrels, grenade or flare launchers, and other specified characteristics.
Semiautomatic shotguns with detachable magazines, revolving cylinders, or folding or adjustable stocks are also restricted.
Handgun Restrictions: Connecticut restricts certain handguns with specified features, including threaded barrels, second hand grips, barrel shrouds, weights over 50 ounces, and magazine capacities over 10 rounds. Handguns are subject to state registration and permit requirements.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds. Semiautomatic shotguns with fixed magazines are limited to 5 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: Connecticut restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A state-issued permit to purchase or Certificate of Eligibility is required for handguns. Ammunition purchases require an ammunition certificate or applicable state-issued firearm credential.
Ammunition purchasers must be at least 18 years old.
Transfers and Waiting Periods: Private firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL.
Out-of-state long gun transfers are subject to a two-week waiting period unless the purchaser qualifies for an exemption, including law enforcement, a valid hunting license, or a carry permit. In-state transfers may take up to 60 days for state approval.
Ammunition Requirements: Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted. Certain ammunition purchases, including black powder supplies, may require a hunting license, pistol permit, or eligibility certificate.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms are not generally restricted; however, a hunting license, pistol permit, or eligibility certificate may be required to purchase black powder ammunition or supplies.
Prohibited Firearms and Devices: Connecticut prohibits certain firearms and devices, including stripped or complete receivers and Franklin Armory Binary Triggers.
Dealer Requirements: Connecticut firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

Delaware Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Delaware prohibits the sale and transfer of most assault weapons as defined by state law. These restrictions include many AR-15, AK-style, and other semiautomatic firearms that meet the state's prohibited firearm definitions.
Ghost Guns: Firearm frames, receivers, and unserialized firearms that do not comply with Delaware law may not be sold or transferred.
Magazine Capacity: Firearms shipped to Delaware must not include magazines capable of holding more than 17 rounds. Certain concealed carry permit holders may qualify for an exemption under state law.
Age Requirements: Federal law limits handgun transfers by licensed firearms dealers to individuals who are at least 21 years of age. Delaware law regarding firearm purchases by individuals between the ages of 18 and 20 has been the subject of recent court decisions.
Transfers and Background Checks: All private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. In-state firearm transfers require approval from the Delaware State Police and may take up to 25 days to process before a firearm can be transferred.
Forced Reset Triggers: Delaware prohibits or significantly restricts Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs) and other devices intended to substantially increase a firearm's rate of fire.
Dealer Requirements: Delaware requires firearms dealers and certain employees to comply with state licensing and regulatory requirements before handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition. These requirements may include state licensing, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.

Florida Firearms Restrictions

Purchase Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Florida requires a three-day waiting period following the purchase of a firearm or until completion of the required background check and receipt of approval, whichever occurs later. In Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, the waiting period is extended to five days. Weekends and legal holidays are excluded.
Reference: Florida Statute 790.0655.
The waiting period does not apply to Florida Concealed Weapon License holders or individuals who have completed a 16-hour hunter safety course and possess a valid hunter safety certification card when purchasing qualifying rifles or shotguns. Certain hunting license exemptions may also apply for qualifying rifle and shotgun purchases.
Forced Reset Triggers: Florida restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices are restricted under Florida Statute 790.222.
Transfers: Private firearm transfers must comply with applicable licensing and background check requirements. Pawn redemptions and private transfers by law enforcement are not exempt from applicable waiting period requirements.
Dealer Requirements: Florida firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with applicable state and federal licensing requirements.

Hawaii Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Hawaii restricts certain assault pistols, including AR and AK-style pistols.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds for handguns. No limit for long guns.
Forced Reset Triggers: Hawaii restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms and ammunition. A permit to purchase is required for firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Hawaii requires a minimum 14-day waiting period after submitting a permit application before a firearm transfer may be completed.
Private firearm transfers must comply with applicable state requirements.
Firearm Registration: All firearms must be registered with the Chief of Police. Firearms brought into the state must be registered within three days.
Background Check Exemption: In-state purchasers may qualify for a NICS background check exemption with a concealed handgun permit issued within the previous five years or a valid Permit to Acquire.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under Hawaii law.
Minimum Melting Point Requirements: Dealers must avoid transferring handguns with cast zinc or "pot-metal" frames that fail the 800°F test.
Dealer Requirements: Hawaii firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

Illinois Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Illinois restricts certain assault weapons, including AR-15-style rifles and other semiautomatic rifles and handguns with specified features. Certain restricted features may include threaded barrels, shrouds, detachable magazines outside the pistol grip, and other characteristics defined under state law.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for handguns.
Forced Reset Triggers: Illinois restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Firearm Parts and Devices: Certain devices and modifications that increase the rate of fire, including bump stocks, trigger cranks, and binary trigger systems, are prohibited.
Purchasing Requirements: A valid Illinois Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card is required to purchase or possess firearms and ammunition. Illinois residents may generally purchase firearms only from Illinois dealers or dealers in contiguous states, including Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, and Kentucky.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed FFL. A 72-hour waiting period applies to all firearm purchases beginning when the buyer agrees to make the purchase.
Ammunition Requirements: A FOID card is required for ammunition purchases and shipments. Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under Illinois law. A FOID card and required state background check process apply. Form 4473 may be used to document the transfer process if desired, but the transfer does not have the same federal recordkeeping requirements as standard firearms transfers.
Firearm Construction Restrictions: Certain unfinished receivers and other components used to create unserialized firearms may be restricted under Illinois law.
Dealer Requirements: Illinois firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

Maryland Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Maryland prohibits or restricts certain assault pistols and assault rifles. Semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines may be prohibited when equipped with certain combinations of features, including folding stocks, flash suppressors, grenade or flare launchers, and other restricted characteristics. Certain semiautomatic shotguns with prohibited features, including folding stocks or revolving cylinders, are also restricted.
Magazine Capacity: Firearms with detachable magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds may not be sold, transferred, or possessed in Maryland.
Handgun Requirements: Maryland maintains an approved handgun roster that limits which handguns may be transferred within the state. Handgun transfers generally require compliance with state approval and registration requirements.
Purchasing Requirements: A valid Handgun Qualification License (HQL) is generally required before purchasing a handgun in Maryland, unless an exemption applies.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Maryland requires a seven-day waiting period for handgun transfers. Regulated firearms must also be reported to the Maryland State Police through the required registration process, including submission of Form 77R.
Purchase Limits: Maryland generally limits purchases of regulated firearms to one firearm per 30-day period.
Rapid-Fire Devices: Maryland prohibits certain rapid-fire trigger activators and similar devices designed to increase a firearm's rate of fire. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs) and comparable devices may be restricted under these provisions.
Handgun Construction Requirements: Maryland restricts the transfer of certain handguns manufactured with frames or receivers made from low-melting-point materials that do not meet the state's minimum 800°F melting point standard.
Dealer Requirements: Maryland requires firearms dealers and certain employees to comply with state licensing and regulatory requirements before handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition. These requirements may include state permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.

Massachusetts Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Massachusetts prohibits assault weapons and restricts certain semiautomatic centerfire rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features. Restricted firearms may include those with detachable magazines and features such as folding stocks, pistol grips, threaded barrels, or other characteristics defined under state law.
Restricted Components: Certain firearm parts and components, including barrels, conversion kits, and parts designed to create prohibited firearms or undetectable firearms, are subject to restrictions. Certain firearm-related parts may require transfer through a licensed FFL depending on applicable requirements.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition or more than 5 shotgun shells are restricted.
Forced Reset Triggers: Massachusetts restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A Massachusetts Firearms Identification Card (FID) or License to Carry (LTC) is required to purchase firearms. Residents generally cannot purchase firearms out of state.
Effective July 1, 2024, certain semiautomatic rifles and shotguns require a License to Carry (LTC) instead of a Firearms Identification Card (FID).
Ammunition Requirements: An FID or LTC is required for ammunition purchases. Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms with a frame or receiver require an FID or LTC to purchase. A background check is required if the firearm is breech-loading or capable of accepting, or being converted to accept, conventional ammunition cartridges currently available in the United States. True antique firearms are exempt from FID, LTC, and Form 4473 requirements.
NICS Exemption: Certain in-state purchasers may qualify for a NICS background check exemption with a concealed handgun permit issued within the last five years or a valid License to Purchase, where applicable.
Dealer Requirements: Massachusetts firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

Michigan Firearms Restrictions

Purchasing Requirements: Michigan requires a License to Purchase (LTP) for handgun purchases unless the purchaser qualifies for an exemption, such as holding a valid Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
Background Checks: Certain purchasers holding a valid Michigan LTP or CPL may qualify for an exemption from the federal National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) requirement when permitted under applicable law. Purchasers must still meet all state and federal eligibility requirements.
Transfers: Private party firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL when required by state and federal law. All firearm transfers remain subject to applicable eligibility and recordkeeping requirements.
Safe Storage Requirements: Michigan requires firearm sales to include a locking device to help ensure safe storage.
Rapid-Fire Devices: Michigan restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Senate Bill 224 (SB 224) addresses prohibited trigger-activating devices, including devices designed to increase firing speed or function similarly to automatic fire. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), multiburst trigger activators, and similar devices may be restricted under Michigan law.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms may not be transferred to individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms under applicable law.
Dealer Requirements: Michigan firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with applicable federal and state licensing, recordkeeping, and regulatory requirements.

Minnesota Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Minnesota restricts certain semiautomatic rifles and pistols. A Permit to Purchase or valid Concealed Carry Permit (CCP/CPL) may be required for transfers of certain semiautomatic military-style firearms from FFLs.
Handgun Restrictions: Minnesota prohibits the transfer of certain handguns, including non-antique firearms with frames, barrels, cylinders, slides, or breech locks made from materials that do not meet state requirements for melting point, tensile strength, or material density. These restrictions may apply to certain low-quality or low-strength handgun constructions.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private party transfers involving semiautomatic pistols and assault weapons must be completed through a licensed FFL or applicable Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO). A 30-day waiting period applies to these transfers effective August 1, 2023.
Purchasing Requirements: A Permit to Purchase or valid Concealed Carry Permit (CCP/CPL) is required for assault weapon transfers from FFLs.
Forced Reset Triggers: Minnesota restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be restricted under Minnesota law.
Dealer Requirements: Minnesota firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with applicable state licensing and regulatory requirements. These requirements may include permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.
Handgun Construction Requirements: Minnesota restricts the transfer of handguns made with certain low-strength materials, including cast zinc or similar materials that fail the state's 1,000°F minimum melting point requirement.

Nebraska Firearms Restrictions

Handgun Purchasing Requirements: Nebraska requires a valid Handgun Purchase Permit or Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) for handgun purchases from licensed firearms dealers.
Background Checks: Nebraska concealed handgun permits issued within the previous five years, or a valid Certificate to Purchase, may qualify as an exemption from a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check when permitted under federal law.

Nevada Firearms Restrictions

Background Checks: Nevada concealed handgun permits issued within the previous five years may qualify as an exemption from a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check when permitted under federal law.
Forced Reset Triggers: Nevada restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be restricted under Nevada law.
Dealer Requirements: Firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with applicable federal and state licensing, recordkeeping, and regulatory requirements.

New Jersey Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: New Jersey prohibits assault weapons, including certain semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features. Restricted features may include folding or telescoping stocks, pistol grips, flash suppressors, threaded barrels, and other characteristics defined under state law.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: New Jersey restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A Permit to Purchase is required for firearms. A Firearm Purchaser Identification Card (FPID) is required for handgun ammunition purchases.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL. New Jersey requires a seven-day waiting period for handgun transfers beginning from the date the handgun permit application was submitted. This is not a seven-day waiting period following background check approval.
All firearm transfers require a "Proceed" approval from the New Jersey State Police NICS system before completion.
Handgun Purchase Limits: New Jersey limits handgun purchases to one handgun per 30-day period.
Firearm Registration and Transfer Restrictions: Handgun registration is required. Residents cannot transfer firearms out of state.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition purchases require the applicable state permits or identification credentials. Direct shipment of ammunition is restricted.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under New Jersey law and are subject to applicable firearm regulations.
Dealer Requirements: New Jersey firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

New Mexico Firearms Restrictions

Waiting Period: New Mexico's mandatory firearm transfer hold requirement has been found unenforceable by the 10th District Court as of December 27, 2025. Verify current court status before completing transfers.
Private Party Transfers: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL.

New York Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: New York restricts assault weapons, including certain semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specified features. Restricted features may include stockless pistol grips, shockwave-type designs, muzzle brakes, thumbhole stocks, long gun pistol grips, foregrips, threaded barrels, and other features defined under state law.
Magazine Capacity: Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.
Forced Reset Triggers: New York restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: A permit is required for handguns and semiautomatic rifles. Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase semiautomatic firearms.
Handgun Restrictions and Registration: Handgun registration is required. Additional restrictions may apply in certain local jurisdictions, including New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany.
Transfer Delays: In-state transfers may take up to 30 days for New York State Police approval. If a delayed response is received, the dealer may not complete the transfer unless notification is received from the New York State Police that the transfer is permitted, or 30 days have passed. After 30 days, the NICS check must be run again before the transfer may proceed. An additional 3-day window applies after the 30-day period to allow time for a response before the transfer can be completed.
Prohibited Firearms and Devices: New York prohibits certain firearms and firearm-related items, including Franklin Armory Binary Triggers, stripped or complete receivers, and home-built firearms ("ghost guns").
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition purchases require a background check. Direct shipment of ammunition and out-of-state ammunition purchases are prohibited.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder rifles and pistols are considered firearms under New York law and are subject to applicable firearm regulations.
Firearm Storage: New York SAFE Act storage requirements apply to firearm storage.
Dealer Requirements: New York firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing, training, certification, and other regulatory requirements.

Ohio Firearms Restrictions

Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms are considered firearms under Ohio law for purposes of prohibited person restrictions. Individuals prohibited from possessing firearms may not purchase or possess black powder firearms.
Background Checks: Ohio concealed handgun permits issued within the previous five years may qualify as an exemption from a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check when permitted under federal law.

Oregon Firearms Restrictions

Purchasing Requirements: Oregon's Permit to Purchase requirement is pending implementation and is not currently enforced. The requirement has been moved to January 1, 2028. Under the proposed requirements, residents would generally be limited to purchasing firearms in Oregon or from contiguous states, including Washington, Nevada, Idaho, and California.
Magazine Capacity: Oregon's 10-round magazine capacity restriction under Measure 114 remains subject to implementation status and is not currently enforced. Firearms dealers should monitor Oregon State Police guidance for updates regarding enforcement.
Transfers: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Buyers must complete the required state transfer documentation and provide a thumbprint to the Oregon FFL as part of the transfer process under ORS 166.412.
Transfer and Import Restrictions: Oregon imposes state-specific restrictions on firearm transfers and imports.
Dealer Requirements: Oregon has proposed additional licensing requirements for firearms dealers and employees through House Bill 3076. These requirements are pending and not currently enforced. Proposed requirements may include state permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.
Implementation Updates: The constitutionality of Measure 114 has been upheld on appeal; however, implementation and enforcement remain subject to procedural requirements and guidance from the Oregon State Police.

Pennsylvania Firearms Restrictions

Handgun Private Party Transfers must be conducted through an FFL.

Puerto Rico Firearms Restrictions

Background Checks: NICS background checks are required for all firearm purchases, with an optional exemption for in-state concealed handgun permit holders issued within the last five years.
FFL Licensing: Dealers and their employees must comply with state licensing, training, and certification requirements before handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition.

Rhode Island Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Effective July 1, 2026, Rhode Island restricts the manufacture, sale, and transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles and shotguns, including AR-style and AK-style firearms, that accept detachable magazines and have specified features such as telescoping stocks or pistol grips.
Forced Reset Triggers: Rhode Island restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Transfers and Waiting Period: All firearm transfers, including private party transfers, must be conducted through a licensed FFL. Rhode Island requires a seven-day waiting period for all firearm transfers.
Ammunition Requirements: A valid handgun safety certificate or Rhode Island hunter education course card is required to purchase ammunition effective December 31, 2022. Ammunition shipments are subject to restrictions, including limitations on direct shipment and required permits or qualifying certifications.
Dealer Requirements: Rhode Island firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms or ammunition must comply with state licensing and regulatory requirements. These requirements may include permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.

South Carolina

Minimum Melting Point - Dealers must avoid transferring handguns with cast zinc or “pot-metal” frames that fail the 800°F test.

Vermont Firearms Restrictions

Firearm Devices: Vermont restricts bump stocks and similar devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Vermont also restricts certain rapid-fire devices, including Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar devices under state law.
Magazine Capacity: Vermont limits magazine capacity to 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for handguns.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Under H.230, Vermont requires a 72-hour hold after NICS approval is received, or a seven-business-day hold after the dealer contacts NICS for a delayed background check, whichever occurs first.
Dealer Requirements: Firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with applicable federal and state licensing, recordkeeping, and regulatory requirements.

Virginia Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons and Magazine Restrictions (Litigation Status): Virginia's SB 749 assault weapon and magazine restrictions are subject to ongoing litigation. A statewide injunction effective July 21, 2026, blocks enforcement of the affected provisions while litigation continues. Until further notice, FFLs may legally transfer assault weapons and magazines in Virginia and to Virginia residents.
Semiautomatic Firearm Restrictions for Certain Buyers Under 21: HB 1525 restricts the transfer of certain semiautomatic firearms to individuals under 21. Restricted firearms include semiautomatic centerfire rifles with a folding stock, threaded barrel, and a magazine over 20 rounds, as well as semiautomatic shotguns capable of holding more than 7 rounds.
Magazine Capacity: Virginia law addresses magazine capacity restrictions for certain firearms. Current enforcement status may be affected by ongoing litigation involving SB 749.
Forced Reset Triggers: Virginia restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Purchasing Requirements: Non-residents and dual residents must provide one photo identification document from their home state and an additional identification document acceptable to the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services for their Virginia residence.
Transfers and Background Checks: Private party firearm transfers require a Virginia State Police/Virginia Firearms Transaction Program background check effective July 1, 2026. All in-state firearm transfers require a "Proceed" approval from Virginia State Police before completion.
Handgun Purchase Limits: Individuals without a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) are limited to one handgun purchase per 30-day period. Buyers may purchase more than one handgun within a 30-day period after completing an enhanced background check and submitting the Virginia State Police SP-207 Multiple Handgun Purchase Application for qualifying purposes.
Firearm Industry Requirements: The Firearm Industry Accountability Act (SB 27/HB 21), effective July 1, 2026, requires firearm industry members to maintain reasonable controls designed to prevent straw purchases, trafficking, theft, and transfers to prohibited persons. Violations may result in civil enforcement actions.
Dealer Requirements: Virginia firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with state licensing and regulatory requirements. These requirements may include permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.

Washington (state) Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Washington restricts the manufacture, sale, transfer, and certain purchases of semiautomatic firearms classified as assault weapons under HB 1240. The law focuses on specific semiautomatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with features such as detachable magazines, threaded barrels, and other characteristics associated with military-style firearms.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds are restricted.
Forced Reset Triggers: Washington restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under state law.
Rifle and Firearm Restrictions: Certain semiautomatic firearm configurations are restricted under Washington law. Complete or stripped uppers and lowers may be prohibited or restricted under applicable state requirements.
Purchasing Requirements: Purchasers must be at least 21 years old to purchase semiautomatic rifles. Safety course certification is required for firearm purchasers, and State Patrol SAFE program approval is required.
Pending Future Requirement - Permit to Purchase: HB 1163, effective May 1, 2027, establishes a permit-to-purchase requirement for firearm purchases and transfers. The permit will be valid for five years.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be completed through a licensed FFL. Washington requires a 10-business-day waiting period for all firearm purchases, beginning from the date the background check request is submitted.
Firearm Registration: Handgun registration is required. Washington residents may purchase long guns from out-of-state sources when all applicable state requirements are met.
Dealer Requirements: Washington firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with state licensing and regulatory requirements. These requirements may include permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.

Washington D.C. Firearms Restrictions

Assault Weapons: Washington, DC prohibits assault weapons with certain limitations. This includes restrictions on .50 BMG rifles and other firearms classified as prohibited under District law.
Magazine Capacity: Magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds are prohibited.
Forced Reset Triggers: Washington, DC restricts certain devices designed to increase the rate of fire of a firearm. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs), trigger activators, and similar rapid-fire devices may be prohibited or significantly restricted under District law.
Purchasing Requirements: Individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms in Washington, DC. Pre-registration or a permit-to-purchase process is required for all firearms.
Transfers and Waiting Period: Private firearm transfers must be conducted through a licensed FFL. Washington, DC requires a 10-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. Out-of-state transfers are prohibited.
Ammunition Requirements: Ammunition possession is limited to licensed dealers, registered firearm holders, and specifically designated officials. Direct shipment of ammunition and out-of-state ammunition purchases are prohibited.
Black Powder Firearms: Black powder firearms are regulated as firearms under Washington, DC law and require a background check and completion of ATF Form 4473 for purchase.
Dealer Requirements: Washington, DC firearms dealers and employees involved in handling, selling, or transferring firearms must comply with applicable licensing and regulatory requirements. These requirements may include permits, background checks, training, certifications, and other compliance obligations.

States and Cities That Restrict Ammunition Sales and Shipping

Alaska: Ammunition shipping prohibited due to state restrictions.
Annapolis, MD: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens & Staten Island, NY: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
California: Online ammo purchases allowed only from California-approved vendors. All ammunition must ship to a licensed FFL, and buyers must pass a state eligibility/background check. Ammunition cannot be shipped to Avalon, Los Angeles, Oakland, Sacramento, or San Francisco.
Connecticut: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
Chicago, IL & Cook County, IL: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
Hawaii: Ammunition shipping prohibited due to state restrictions.
Illinois: FOID card required to purchase ammunition; shipping restricted to in-state regulations.
Los Angeles, CA: Ammunition shipping prohibited.
Massachusetts: Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL.
New Jersey: Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL.
New York (statewide): Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL.
New York City: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
Rhode Island: Ammunition may only be shipped to a licensed FFL.
Washington D.C.: Ammunition sales and shipments prohibited.
APO & FPO Addresses: Ammunition shipping prohibited.
USPS PO Boxes: Ammunition shipping prohibited.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Firearm, ammunition, and magazine laws change frequently. Laws may vary by federal, state, county, and local jurisdiction. Always verify current requirements with the appropriate government agencies or legal professionals before purchasing, selling, shipping, transferring, or possessing firearms, ammunition, or related items. Some jurisdictions may allow certain firearms or ammunition but impose additional requirements or restrictions.

*This list was last updated 07/30/2026

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