North Dakota Gun Permit: Laws, Cost, Restrictions, & FAQs
In North Dakota, the possession of firearms requires individuals to obtain a pistol license. The state operates on a shall-issue basis, where the local law enforcement agency processes firearm applications. This article will provide an overview of the process to acquire a gun permit in North Dakota, the eligibility requirements, and the different types of permits available. Additionally, we will explore reciprocity with other states and relevant gun permit laws within North Dakota.
North Dakota Gun Permit Summary
North Dakota is a shall-issue state for firearms permits, meaning they will issue a license to qualified applicants. However, the state does not issue purchase permits for buying firearms.
How to Get a Gun Permit in North Dakota
To obtain a gun permit in North Dakota, applicants can apply for either class one or class two permits. The age requirements are twenty-one years old for class one and eighteen years old for class two permits. The license allows for both open and concealed carry within the state.
North Dakota Gun Permit Laws
North Dakota permits the open carry of firearms for individuals holding a valid gun license issued in the state or from a state recognized by North Dakota. However, certain locations are designated as off-limits for firearms possession, even for those with a pistol permit.
The state considers it a felony to buy, sell, or manufacture machine guns, automatic firearms, gun silencers, or explosives. Only federally licensed individuals, law enforcement officers, and military members can possess such weapons in North Dakota.
North Dakota Pistol Permit Requirements
To qualify for a pistol license in North Dakota, applicants must meet specific requirements, which include:
- Age: At least eighteen years old for class two permit, and twenty-one years old for class one permit.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents.
- Eligibility: Not be prohibited from possessing firearms or any other weapons.
- Residency: Reside in North Dakota or be a military member stationed in the state.
- Training: Complete a North Dakota concealed carry permit class according to state requirements.
- No Restraining Orders: Must not have a court order prohibiting firearm possession.
- Criminal Background Check: Pass a criminal background check conducted by the FBI.
- No Felonies: Must not be convicted of a felony.
- No Violent Crimes: Must not be convicted of any violent-related crimes.
- No Alcohol-Related Crimes: Must not be convicted of alcohol-related crimes within ten years before the permit application.
- No Drug-Related Crimes: Must not be convicted of drug-related misdemeanors within ten years before application.
- No Domestic Assault Violence: Must not be convicted of domestic assault violence.
- Mental Impairment: Must not be mentally impaired according to any court, unless a canceled verdict is issued.
- Compliance with Federal Law: Must meet all other federal laws regarding CCW permit application.
Different Types of Gun Permits in North Dakota
North Dakota issues different types of gun permits, including:
- State permit to purchase long guns: North Dakota does not issue a state permit for the purchase of long guns.
- State permits to purchase handguns: North Dakota does not issue a state permit for the purchase of handguns.
- State permit to open carry: North Dakota requires a license for open carry.
- State permits to conceal carry long guns: North Dakota does not issue a state permit to conceal carry long guns.
- State permits to conceal carry handguns: North Dakota issues a pistol permit for concealed carry of handguns.
Gun Permits Application and Renewal Law in North Dakota
The application process for a gun permit in North Dakota involves the following steps:
- Complete Firearm Training: Before applying, complete a North Dakota firearm training class.
- Choose the Permit Type: Decide whether you want a class one or class two permit and ensure you meet the age requirement.
- Submit the Application: Download and complete the application, then either mail or submit it physically to the testing site.
- Take the Test: First-time applicants must pass an open-book test based on the Concealed Weapon License Manual. Class one applicants undergo further classroom teaching, firearm familiarity demonstration, and a shooting test.
- Submit Necessary Documents: After passing the test, submit required documents, including a photocopy of your state-issued ID, colored passports, fingerprint cards, and payment check, to the Bureau of Criminal Inspection.
- Wait for Approval: You will receive a notification of an approved or denied permit.
For permit renewals, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation will send a reminder to your last known address. You can apply for renewal at least one hundred and eighty days before the expiration of your current permit. Ensure you complete the application before the expiry date, as late or incomplete applications are not accepted. An expired license becomes invalid, and you must reapply for a new one.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Gun License in North Dakota?
The cost for an initial and renewal permit application in North Dakota is sixty dollars.
Gun Permit Reciprocity with North Dakota
North Dakota only accepts gun permits from states that recognize its own gun permit. States that recognize North Dakota’s pistol permit include Alabama, Indiana, and Montana. Some states have restricted reciprocity, which means they accept pistol permits from North Dakota but have individual requirements for open or concealed carry. States with permitless policies, such as Arizona and Alaska, allow firearm possession without a pistol license due to constitutional carry laws.
Relevant Gun Permit Laws and Legislature in North Dakota
Several gun permit laws in North Dakota relate to firearms possession within specific areas, including:
- Possession of Firearms in Private Vehicles: You can possess firearms in a private vehicle if you have a North Dakota pistol license. Non-residents must have a pistol license from a state recognized by North Dakota.
- Possession of Firearms in Roadside Areas: You can possess firearms in North Dakota with a pistol license from the state or any recognized state.
- Possession of Firearms in State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management Areas: A valid North Dakota pistol license or a recognized state permit allows you to possess firearms in these locations.
- Possession of Firearms in Restaurant and Bar Areas That Serve Alcohol: With a North Dakota permit or a recognized out-of-state permit, you can conceal carry firearms in the eatery area of a restaurant and bar, except in bar areas where concealed carry is prohibited.
- Possession of Firearms in Hotels: North Dakota does not have specific gun laws restricting firearms possession in hotels, but hotel management can implement their policies.
- Possession of Firearms in Employee Parking Lots: Employers cannot prevent employees, customers, or visitors from legally possessing firearms in a private vehicle in a parking lot, except in specific locations like schools and correctional facilities.
Conclusion
Obtaining a gun permit in North Dakota involves meeting certain eligibility requirements and completing necessary training. The state offers various types of gun permits for open and concealed carry, depending on the applicant’s age and preferences. It’s essential to understand the reciprocity agreements with other states before carrying firearms across state lines. By following the appropriate laws and regulations, responsible gun owners can exercise their rights safely and lawfully.
FAQs
Can I apply for a gun permit if I am not a North Dakota resident?
No, you must be a resident of North Dakota or a military member stationed in the state to apply for a gun permit.
Are there different age requirements for class one and class two permits?
Yes, you must be twenty-one years old for a class one permit and eighteen years old for a class two permit.
How much does it cost to renew a gun permit in North Dakota?
The cost for renewing a gun permit in North Dakota is sixty dollars.
Which states recognize North Dakota’s pistol permit?
States that recognize North Dakota’s pistol permit include Alabama, Indiana, and Montana.
Can I possess firearms in a private car as a non-resident of North Dakota?
Yes, non-residents can possess firearms in a private vehicle if they have a pistol license from a state recognized by North Dakota.
