North Dakota Open Carry: Laws, Requirements, Application & Online Training
Introduction
North Dakota is known as a constitutional carry state, allowing individuals to possess firearms without requiring a permit, as long as they meet certain requirements. However, there are specific restrictions on the use of firearms in certain areas. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of North Dakota’s gun laws, including constitutional carry, open carry regulations, age requirements, prohibited locations, and more.
North Dakota Gun Laws Summary
North Dakota follows a shall-issue policy for concealed weapon licenses, and the state attorney general handles all permit applications. There are two types of licenses: class one and class two. Those with either of these permits do not require a criminal record background check to purchase a firearm in the state.
Constitutional Carry in North Dakota
Constitutional carry allows individuals to carry firearms without a permit, as long as they meet specific criteria. To qualify for constitutional carry in North Dakota, an individual must be at least eighteen years old and not have any state restrictions on firearm possession.
Age Requirements for Constitutional Carry
The age requirement for a class one permit is twenty-one years old, while for a class two permit, it is nineteen years old.
Class One and Class Two Licenses
Both class one and class two licenses allow individuals to carry firearms concealed without a separate permit for each. This saves gun owners from having to go through a criminal background check for every firearm purchase.
Open Carry Laws in North Dakota
While constitutional carry permits carrying a concealed firearm without a license, open carry regulations are stricter. In North Dakota, open carry requires a permit.
Open Carry Eligibility
Individuals who are at least eighteen years old and do not have any state restrictions on firearm possession are eligible for open carry with a permit.
Time Restrictions for Open Carry
One notable exception to the permit requirement is that individuals can open carry one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset without needing a permit.
Firearm Restrictions
North Dakota prohibits the possession, purchase, or sale of machine guns, semi-automatic firearms, and devices like silencers. These offenses are considered felonies in the state.
North Dakota Open Gun Laws Quick View
- State Permit for Open Carry: Yes, a permit is required for open carry.
- Firearm Registrations for Open Carry: No, there is no state requirement for registering firearms meant to be openly carried.
- Assault Weapon for Open Carry: No, assault weapons like machine guns and semi-automatic firearms are prohibited.
- Magazine Limit: No, there is no limit on the number of rounds in a magazine.
- License for Firearm Owners: North Dakota only issues concealed weapon licenses for carrying firearms.
- Red Flag Law: North Dakota does not have red flag laws.
- Castle Doctrine Law: Yes, North Dakota has a castle doctrine policy with no duty to retreat in homes, workplaces, and personal vehicles.
- Background Check for Private Dealers: No, the state does not mandate criminal record background checks for private sellers.
- Preemption: Yes, North Dakota is a preemption law state, giving the state government authority to regulate firearm usage even in local territories.
- Concealed Carry Permit: Yes, individuals can conceal carry with either the state class one or class two concealed weapon licenses.
- Concealed Carry in Personal Vehicle: Yes, individuals with a concealed weapon license can carry in their vehicle.
- Open Carry in Schools: No, North Dakota prohibits the possession of firearms or weapons in schools and educational institutions.
Where Is It Legal To Open Carry In North Dakota?
While open carry is generally permitted, some specific locations within the state have restrictions on open carry.
Open Carry in Restaurants and Bars
Open carry is allowed in restaurants and bars, except in areas where there are signs prohibiting it.
Open Carry in Personal Vehicles
Individuals with a permit can open carry in their personal vehicles.
Open Carry in Roadside Areas
Open carry is allowed in roadside areas throughout North Dakota.
Open Carry in State Parks and Forests
Open carry is permitted in state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.
Where Is It Illegal To Open Carry In North Dakota?
Certain areas in North Dakota have strict restrictions on open carry.
Prohibition of Open Carry in Stadiums and Sporting Events
Open carry is not allowed in stadiums or any state professional sporting events.
Prohibition of Open Carry in Church Events
Open carry is not permitted in any church event unless authorized by the relevant authorities.
Prohibition of Open Carry in Public Buildings
Open carry is prohibited in buildings accessible to the general public.
Prohibition of Open Carry in State Capitol
Open carry is not allowed in the state capitol building or its premises.
Prohibition of Open Carry in Bars and Licensed Areas
Open carry is not allowed in areas where alcohol is sold and consumed.
Prohibition of Open Carry While Under the Influence
Open carry is not permitted while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Prohibition of Open Carry in Gaming Centers
Open carry is not allowed in gaming centers where bingo is the main activity.
Prohibition of Open Carry in Federally Prohibited Areas
Open carry is not allowed in areas prohibited by federal laws.
Relevant Open Carry Law And Legislature In North Dakota
Preemption Law
North Dakota preempts local gun laws, meaning state law supersedes all local municipalities or county laws.
Brandishing of Firearms
Brandishing firearms in a threatening manner is illegal in North Dakota.
Possession of Firearms Under the Influence of Alcohol
It is a crime to possess a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
Open Carry While Hunting in North Dakota
Open carry is allowed while hunting in North Dakota, with the exception of using handguns during bow hunting.
Hunter Harassment Laws
North Dakota has hunter harassment laws to protect legal hunting activities in the state, prohibiting any intentional disturbance or interference with hunting.
Conclusion
North Dakota’s gun laws provide for constitutional carry with certain requirements, allowing individuals to possess firearms without a permit. However, for open carry, individuals need to obtain a permit. The state also imposes restrictions on specific locations and types of firearms. It is essential for gun owners and enthusiasts to be well-informed about these laws to ensure compliance and safety.
FAQs
Is North Dakota a constitutional carry state?
Yes, North Dakota is a constitutional carry state, allowing individuals to possess firearms without a permit, as long as they meet specific requirements.
What are the age requirements for constitutional carry in North Dakota?
The age requirement for a class one permit is twenty-one years old, while for a class two permit, it is nineteen years old.
Can I open carry in North Dakota without a permit?
No, open carry in North Dakota requires a permit, except one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset.
Are there any restrictions on firearm possession in North Dakota?
Yes, North Dakota prohibits the possession, purchase, or sale of machine guns, semi-automatic firearms, and devices like silencers.
Where is open carry prohibited in North Dakota?
Open carry is prohibited in certain areas, including stadiums, church events, public buildings, state capitol, bars, and federally prohibited areas.