Wisconsin Gun Permit: Laws, Cost, Restrictions, & FAQs
The right to bear arms is a fundamental aspect of American culture, and each state has its own set of laws and regulations governing the possession and carry of firearms. Wisconsin, a state with a rich hunting and outdoor heritage, allows its residents and military personnel stationed within its borders to obtain a pistol permit.
In this article, we will explore the essential information about obtaining and maintaining a gun permit in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Gun Permit Summary
Wisconsin operates as a “shall-issue” state, where firearm permits are issued by the Department of Justice. The permits are only available to state residents and military personnel stationed within Wisconsin’s boundaries.
How To Get A Gun Permit In Wisconsin?
To be eligible for a Wisconsin pistol license, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be at least twenty-one years old, or eighteen years old if you are a military member.
- You must have the legal right to possess firearms without any federal or state prohibition.
The pistol license allows concealed carry within the state.
Wisconsin Gun Permit Laws
Wisconsin does not require a permit for open carry of firearms. Any individual who is at least eighteen years old and not restricted from possessing weapons can openly carry them in the state. However, certain places are prohibited for the purchase of firearms.
The possession of machine guns and similar firearms is restricted to law enforcement officers, military members, and peace officers. Additionally, the use of armor-piercing firearms is prohibited in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Gun Permit Requirements
To apply for a pistol permit in Wisconsin, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least twenty-one years old.
- You must provide a driver’s license or an identification card, except if you are a member of the military.
- You must complete a state-licensed firearm training and possess a certificate of completion.
- You must not have a court order prohibiting the purchase of firearms in the state.
- You must not be a convicted felon in Wisconsin or have committed a felony crime in any jurisdiction.
- You must not be guilty of juvenile delinquency considered a felony if committed by an adult.
- You must not be a patient under strict orders against the possession of firearms.
- You must meet all federal requirements for the possession of firearms.
Different Types Of Gun Permits In Wisconsin
Wisconsin issues permits as follows:
- State permit to purchase long guns: Wisconsin does not require a state permit to buy long guns.
- State permits to purchase handguns: Wisconsin does not require a state permit to purchase handguns.
- State permit to open carry: Wisconsin is a permissive state, allowing open carry without a license.
- State permits to conceal carry long guns: Wisconsin does not issue a state permit to conceal long weapons.
- State permits to conceal carry handguns: Wisconsin issues a pistol permit to conceal carry handguns in the state.
How Much Does It Cost To Get A Gun License In Wisconsin?
The cost for initial and renewal permit applications in Wisconsin is forty dollars and twenty-two dollars, respectively.
Gun Permits Application And Renewal Law In Wisconsin
To apply for a Wisconsin pistol permit, follow these steps:
- Complete Firearm Training: Obtain training from a state-certified instructor.
- Complete The Application: Apply via mail or online after downloading it from the website.
- Provide Other Necessary Documents: Include a completed application with your signature, residential address, Wisconsin driver’s license or identification number, and proof of completed firearm training. Pay the required fee of forty dollars.
For permit renewals, start the application process at least one hundred and twenty days before the permit expiry date. You have a grace period of ninety days after the permit expires to renew it. If you miss the ninety-day window, you must apply for an initial permit again.
Gun Permit Reciprocity With Wisconsin
Wisconsin recognizes gun permits from certain states based on reciprocity agreements and a criminal record check. The reciprocity aspects are as follows:
States That Wisconsin Will Accept Their Gun Licenses: Residents of these states can conceal carry in Wisconsin with their gun licenses issued by any of the states. However, they must comply with Wisconsin gun laws while doing so.
States That Recognize Wisconsin Pistol Permits: These states allow possession of firearms within their jurisdiction if the individual has a Wisconsin-issued license. However, they must be familiar with the state’s gun laws and carry firearms according to regulations. Some of these states include Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, and Virginia.
States That Have Restricted Reciprocity With Wisconsin: These states honor Wisconsin gun licenses but may have additional individual requirements for firearm possession within their territories. Some examples are Colorado, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.
States That Have Permitless Carry Policy: These states do not require individuals to have a gun license to possess firearms. However, they must meet age requirements. Examples include Alaska, Arizona, and Idaho.
Relevant Gun Laws Permits And Legislature In Wisconsin
Various Wisconsin statutes govern the possession of firearms in specific areas and situations:
- Possession Of Firearms In Private Vehicles: You can possess firearms in your private vehicle if you have a Wisconsin gun permit or a permit from a recognized state. However, this does not permit concealed carry of a loaded firearm without a permit.
- Possession Of Firearms In Roadside Areas: You can conceal carry firearms in roadside areas if you have a Wisconsin pistol permit or a permit from a state with reciprocity.
- Possession Of Firearms In State Parks, Forests, And Wildlife Management Areas: You can possess firearms in these areas with a Wisconsin gun permit or a permit from a state with reciprocity.
- Possession Of Firearms In Restaurant And Bar Areas Of The State: Possession of firearms in restaurant and bar areas is allowed unless there is a post prohibiting it, and you are not under the influence of alcohol.
Conclusion
Obtaining a gun permit in Wisconsin requires meeting certain age and eligibility criteria. The state issues pistol permits for concealed carry but allows open carry without a license. The reciprocity agreements with other states allow for cross-state recognition of permits, enhancing firearm possession across state lines. However, it is essential to be aware of specific regulations and restrictions in different locations to comply with the law and ensure responsible firearm ownership.
FAQs;
Q1- Can I open carry in Wisconsin without a permit?
Yes, Wisconsin allows open carry of firearms without a permit for individuals aged eighteen and above, as long as they are not restricted from possessing weapons.
Q2- What is the age requirement to apply for a Wisconsin pistol permit?
To apply for a Wisconsin pistol permit, you must be at least twenty-one years old. Military members aged eighteen or above can also apply.
Q3- How much does it cost to apply for a gun license in Wisconsin?
The cost for initial and renewal permit applications in Wisconsin is forty dollars and twenty-two dollars, respectively.
Q4- Which states recognize Wisconsin pistol permits?
States like Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Virginia, and others recognize Wisconsin pistol permits, allowing individuals to possess firearms within their jurisdictions.
Q5- Can I possess firearms in Wisconsin state parks?
Yes, you can possess firearms in Wisconsin state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas if you have a Wisconsin gun permit or a permit from a state with reciprocity.
