Nevada Gun Permit: Laws, Cost, Restrictions, & FAQs
Introduction
In the state of Nevada, owning and possessing firearms is governed by specific laws and regulations. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of obtaining a gun permit in Nevada, the state’s gun laws, reciprocity agreements, and relevant legislation.
Nevada Gun Permit Summary
Nevada operates under a shall-issue policy for the possession of firearms, with permits processed at the county level. It is important to note that while a purchase permit is not required to buy firearms in the state, individuals must undergo a criminal record check and purchase firearms only from licensed dealers.
How to Get a Gun Permit in Nevada?
Nevada issues gun permits for concealed carry to both residents and non-residents of the state, provided they are at least twenty-one years old and have no firearm prohibition. However, it is essential to understand that the permit is exclusively for concealed carry, as Nevada is a permissive carry state.
Nevada Gun Permit Laws
The state of Nevada allows open carry of firearms for individuals who are at least eighteen years old, without any state prohibition against possessing firearms. Furthermore, individuals who comply with all federal regulations can lawfully own machine guns.
However, there are specific prohibitions in place. It is illegal to possess rifles or shotguns with barrel lengths of less than sixteen and eighteen inches, respectively. Additionally, possessing firearms with barrel lengths less than twenty-six inches is prohibited. Furthermore, ammunition that pierces metals is also not allowed in the state.
Nevada Gun Permit Requirements
To apply for a gun permit in Nevada, applicants must meet several requirements set by Nevada pistol license laws. Some of the key requirements include:
- Being at least twenty-one years old, or eighteen years old for military members or honorably discharged veterans.
- Being a legal resident of the United States.
- Not being a dishonorably discharged officer from the United States Armed Forces.
- Providing proof of having passed an approved Nevada firearm training class.
- Not having an arrest warrant or being a fugitive.
- Not being mentally disabled or a patient of a psychiatric home within the past five years.
- Not being a drug addict or a marijuana patient.
- Not having convictions for crimes involving violent force or misdemeanors within the last three years.
- Not being a convicted felon or involved in criminal activities related to domestic violence, stalking, or restraining orders.
- Not being on parole or probation.
- Not providing a falsified application statement.
- Not having a court order prohibiting firearm ownership under state or federal laws.
- Meeting all federal law requirements for permit applications.
Different Types of Gun Permits in Nevada
In Nevada, there are several types of firearms permits:
- State permit to purchase long guns: Nevada does not issue a state permit for purchasing long guns.
- State permits to purchase handguns: Nevada does not issue a state permit for purchasing handguns.
- State permit to open carry: Nevada is a permissive state, so no license is required to open carry.
- State permits to conceal carry long guns: Nevada does not issue a state permit to conceal long guns.
- State permits to conceal carry handguns: Nevada issues a pistol permit for concealing handguns within the state.
Cost of Obtaining a Gun License in Nevada
The initial permit application in Nevada costs ninety-six dollars, but this amount may vary from county to county. The renewal permit application costs sixty-three dollars.
Gun Permit Application and Renewal Process in Nevada
The process of applying for a gun permit in Nevada involves the following steps:
- Complete a Firearm Training Course: All applicants must complete a Nevada-approved firearm training course before applying for a permit.
- Complete Your Application: Applicants can download the application online from their county’s website or pick it up from the sheriff’s office.
- Submit the Necessary Documents: Along with the completed application, applicants must provide a training certificate, proof of residence, proof of US citizenship, and the required fee. They must also provide their fingerprints and a photograph. The application form must be signed in the presence of a witness officer before submission.
- Receive Approval Mail: Applicants will receive a mail notifying them of their application status after the processing period.
The renewal process for a gun permit in Nevada involves:
- Complete a Training Course: Applicants must complete a refresher firearm training course.
- Download the Application: The application form can be downloaded online or obtained from the local county sheriff’s office.
- Submit the Application: Applicants must submit the completed application along with the necessary documents, including a training certificate, proof of residency, proof of US citizenship, and the required fee. They must also sign the application form in the presence of a witness, and provide fingerprints, and a photograph.
Gun Permit Reciprocity with Nevada
Nevada recognizes gun licenses from certain states that meet specific requirements in favor of firearm possession. These states include Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
In turn, there are states that recognize Nevada pistol permits, allowing holders to conceal carry firearms in those states. These states include Alabama, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Puerto Rico.
States with Restricted Reciprocity with Nevada
Some states require individuals to have a Nevada-issued pistol license and meet specific requirements stated in their statutes to possess firearms. These states include Florida and Michigan.
States with Permitless Carry Policy
Certain states do not require any kind of pistol permit for firearm possession within their territory. Although most of them have constitutional carry policies, individuals must still meet the minimum age requirement to possess firearms. These states include Arizona, Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Vermont, and West Virginia.
Relevant Gun Permit Laws and Legislature in Nevada
Several laws and regulations govern the possession of firearms and pistol permits in Nevada:
- Possession of Firearms in Private Vehicles: Individuals with a Nevada pistol license or one recognized by Nevada can carry firearms in their private vehicles. However, individuals without a gun permit can only open carry or conceal firearms outside the vehicle.
- Possession of Firearms in Roadside Areas: Firearms can be possessed in roadside areas of the state by individuals with a gun permit or one from a state recognized by Nevada.
- Possession of Firearms in State Forests, Parks, and Wildlife Management Areas: Firearms can be possessed in these areas if the individual has a Nevada pistol permit or one from a recognized state.
- Possession of Firearms in Restaurants and Bars That Serve Alcohol: Nevada law permits the possession of firearms in restaurants and bars unless prohibited or if the person is under the influence of alcohol.
- Possession of Firearms in Hotels: Nevada does not have specific laws regulating the possession of firearms in hotels. However, individual hotel management may establish their own policies regarding firearms possession within their premises.
Conclusion
Obtaining a gun permit in Nevada requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and undergoing the necessary training. Nevada’s gun laws allow for both open carry and concealed carry, with certain restrictions on the possession of firearms with short barrel lengths and ammunition that pierces metals.
Additionally, the state has reciprocity agreements with numerous states, allowing for the recognition of gun licenses from other jurisdictions. Understanding Nevada’s gun laws and regulations is crucial for responsible firearm ownership in the state.
FAQs;
1. Can I purchase long guns in Nevada without a state permit?
Yes, you can purchase long guns in Nevada without a state permit. However, you must complete a criminal record check and buy guns only from licensed dealers.
2. What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a gun permit in Nevada?
Applicants must be at least twenty-one years old, or eighteen years old if they are military members or honorably discharged from service.
3. Are there any prohibitions on firearm possession in Nevada?
Yes, Nevada prohibits the possession, manufacturing, or transfer of rifles with barrel lengths less than sixteen inches, shotguns with barrel lengths less than eighteen inches, and either a shotgun or rifle with a barrel length less than twenty-six inches. Possession of ammunition that pierces metals is also prohibited.
4. Which states does Nevada recognize pistol permits from?
Nevada recognizes pistol permits from states that meet specific requirements favoring firearm possession. Some of these states include Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
5. Can I possess firearms in roadside areas of Nevada?
Yes, you can possess firearms in roadside areas of Nevada if you have a valid gun permit or one from a state recognized by Nevada.
