How to Legally Buy a Gun in Connecticut
Buying a firearm in Connecticut involves following strict state laws, whether purchasing from a licensed dealer or a private seller. This guide explains the step-by-step process for multiple options, ensuring you stay compliant.
Disclaimer:
It is your responsibility as a Buyer/Seller to ensure you follow the law, this guide may become outdated, as such the information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
Buying a Firearm from a Licensed Dealer
Purchasing from a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer (such as a gun shop) is the most common and simplest way to buy a firearm in Connecticut.
Step 1: Meet the Requirements
There are various different types of firearms permits in Connecticut, here is a quick summary, more details in the CT Firearms Permit Types guide.
Before purchasing, ensure you have one of the following:
Connecticut Pistol Permit (Best Option) – Required for purchasing handguns, long guns and for carrying. Learn how to obtain this permit here.
Eligibility Certificate for Pistol or Revolver – Allows purchase but not carrying.
Eligibility Certificate for Long Guns – Allows purchase of only rifles, shotguns and ammo.
Ammunition Certificate – Required for buying ammunition, but not firearms.
Step 2: Select Your Firearm & Begin Background Check
At the store, you will:
- Choose a firearm.
- Pay for the firearm.
- Provide your valid permit/certificate.
- Complete Form DPS-67-C (State of CT Application to Purchase a Firearm).
- Complete ATF Form 4473 (Firearm Transaction Record)
- Submit to State and National Instant Criminal (NICS) Background Checks through the dealer via online system.
Step 3: Approval & Waiting Period
- The Connecticut State Police (SLFU/DESPP) issues an approval number if you pass the background check.
- Handguns & Semi-Auto Rifles: No waiting period if you have a valid permit.
- Long Guns: 7-day waiting period if using an Eligibility Certificate.
Step 4: Take Possession of the Firearm
Once approved, you’ll:
- Receive purchase receipt.
- Receive a DPS-3-C (DESPP Sale or Transfer of All Firearms Form) form with sale authorization number.
- Take your firearm home, following safe storage and transportation regulations.
- Save the receipts and DPS-3-C for your records, these could be used to show proof of legal possession of the firearm.
Additional Notes:
- You must be 21+ to buy a handgun, and 18+ for a long gun.
- “Assault weapons” and “high-capacity magazines” (over 10 rounds) are restricted unless grandfathered in before the ban.
Buying a Firearm Online
Purchasing a firearm online follows a similar process to buying from a dealer, but requires an additional step of shipping the firearm to a licensed FFL dealer.
Step 1: Choose a Firearm from an Online Retailer
- Find a firearm from a reputable online gun store or auction site.
- Verify that the firearm is legal in Connecticut before purchasing.
Step 2: Select an FFL Dealer for Transfer
- The firearm must be shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in Connecticut.
- Contact your local gun store or FFL holder to ensure they will accept the transfer before ordering.
Step 3: Complete the Background Check & Paperwork
- When the firearm arrives at the FFL, you’ll visit the dealer.
- Pay any FFL transfer fees.
- Provide your pistol permit or eligibility certificate.
- Complete Form DPS-67-C, ATF Form 4473 and submit to a State and NICS background check.
Step 4: Take Possession of the Firearm
- Once approved by SLFU/DESPP, you’ll p* and take your firearm home.
- Save the receipts and DPS-3-C for your records, these could be used to show proof of legal possession of the firearm.
Additional Notes:
- Private sellers on online marketplaces must still follow CT laws for private sales (authorization number, background check, etc.).
- Online retailers will not ship directly to individuals—only to FFLs.
Buying a Firearm from a Private Seller
As of recent changes in Connecticut law, all private firearm sales must be conducted through a licensed FFL dealer. Private individuals can no longer obtain an authorization number from the Connecticut State Police for direct transfers.
Step 1: Find an FFL Dealer Willing to Handle the Transfer
Both the buyer and seller must visit a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer to process the sale.
Step 2: The Dealer Conducts the Background Check
- The buyer must present a valid pistol permit or eligibility certificate for handguns or a long gun eligibility certificate for rifles/shotguns.
- The dealer will complete a background check through State and NICS and ensure the buyer is eligible.
Step 3: Complete the Transfer Paperwork
- The FFL dealer will complete the required Form DPS-3-C (Sale or Transfer of Firearm).
- The dealer will keep records of the sale and report it to the appropriate authorities.
Step 4: Pay the Transfer Fee & Take Possession
- The buyer will pay the FFL dealer’s transfer fee (dependent on FFL).
- Once approved, the buyer can legally take possession of the firearm.
- Both Seller and Buyer should retain any bills of sale, transfer documents for future reference.
Additional Notes:
- Private sales at gun shows must also go through an FFL dealer.
- It is illegal to transfer a firearm privately without going through an FFL.
- “Assault weapons” and “high-capacity magazines” cannot be sold privately.
