Disclaimer
It is your responsibility to follow all local, state and federal laws, this guide may become outdated, as such the guide provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
This guide is created as a quick overview of the requirements and things to keep in mind when moving to Connecticut with your firearms.
These concepts should be used as a starting point to your research, you should do your own due diligence as the consequences for not following the law are substantial.
1. Know the Laws Before You Move
You can move to Connecticut with your legally purchased firearms as long as they comply with Connecticut gun laws BEFORE you transport them to the state.
Connecticut has strict gun laws that regulate firearm ownership, transportation, and registration. Some key points to be aware of:
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Assault Weapons Ban: Connecticut prohibits many firearms classified as “assault weapons” by name and feature. If your firearm is on the state’s banned list, or has banned features, you cannot bring it into the state unless you have exempt status due to your profession (Police Officer, Military, etc.). Common misconception is that if something is Cali or NY compliant it’s legal in CT, that is largely false and the firearm should be cross referenced with the most current language of the CT AW ban to see if it can be brought into the state.
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High-Capacity Magazine Ban: Magazines that hold more than 10 rounds are generally prohibited unless they were registered before the state’s cutoff date, or you have work related exemptions.
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No Registration for New Residents: Connecticut does not allow new residents to register firearms that are restricted or banned, unless special exceptions are met.
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Permit Requirements: Connecticut requires a permit to concealed carry pistol and revolvers, as well as purchase firearms and ammunition.
2. Moving with Firearms
When transporting firearms into Connecticut, follow these guidelines:
- Firearms Must Be Unloaded: Always transport firearms unloaded and securely stored.
- Locked Storage: Firearms should be in a locked container or the trunk of your vehicle.
- Federal Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA): If you are driving through multiple states, FOPA protects your right to transport firearms as long as they are legal at your origin and destination. Keep them locked, unloaded, and separate from ammunition.
- Check Each State’s Laws: Some states have stricter transport laws. Research the firearm regulations of each state you’ll be traveling through to avoid any legal issues.
- Avoid Unnecessary Stops: When traveling, minimize stops in states with restrictive firearm laws to reduce legal risks.
- Air Travel Considerations: If flying, you must declare your firearm at check-in, store it in a TSA-approved hard case, and ensure it is unloaded. Check the airline’s policies and TSA regulations for specifics.
- Interaction with Law Enforcement: If stopped by law enforcement while transporting firearms, remain calm, follow instructions, and inform the officer that you have firearms in the vehicle if required by state law. Do not make sudden movements, and provide necessary documentation if asked.
3. Firearm Possession Requirements
- No Permit Required to Move with Firearms: You do not need any permits to bring firearms into Connecticut when moving.
- Permits for Carry and Purchase: While you can possess a handgun in your home without a permit, you need a Connecticut Pistol Permit to purchase or concealed carry one. You can read more on the different types of permits in the CT Firearm Permit Types guide, or our guide on How to Get a Connecticut Pistol Permit.
- Ammunition and Magazines: Purchasing ammunition requires an Ammunition Certificate or a valid pistol permit. No magazines with capacity over 10 rounds can be brought into the state. You may convert your standard capacity magazines to 10 round compliant magazines if it’s done permanently and prior to arrival in CT.
4. Understand Self-Defense and Carry Laws
Connecticut has strict laws regarding self-defense and firearm carry:
- Duty to Retreat: Connecticut does not have a “Stand Your Ground” law, meaning you must attempt to retreat before using deadly force outside your home.
- Concealed Carry Only: Open carry is now explicitly prohibited, concealed carrying is the only option.
5. Comply with Safe Storage Laws
Connecticut has strict storage laws, regardless if minors are present in the home, all firearms must be stored securely to prevent unauthorized access.
6. Transport Alternative
As an alternative to transporting your firearms via car or plane, you may also ship your firearms via FFL to FFL shipment. This option is costly and logistically intensive but it does exist, especially when personal transport may not be available.
