If you want to purchase a gun in Minnesota, there are several things that you need to know. Purchasing a firearm in Minnesota is fairly simple if you meet the standard requirements, but depending on what you intend to purchase, or if you intend to carry, an application processes and training may be required.

Guns requiring no permits

Guns that are primarily used for hunting often do not require a license in Minnesota. This includes most bolt-action rifles and shotguns intended for hunting. You must still have a valid driver's license or state ID, and a dealer will process appropriate paperwork required for the purchase. 

Meeting the Minimum Requirements

Minnesota residents must be at least 21 years or older in order to purchase a handgun. A Permit to Purchase OR a Permit to Carry must first be acquired through the sheriff's department. Resident must be at least 18 years old to purchase most rifle and shotguns, and some semi-automatic rifles may require a permit as listed above. There are also some other requirements that need to be followed:

• You must have a clean criminal record, especially regarding violent crimes.
• You must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien.
• You must not have been dishonorably discharged from the military.

Go to a Training Course

Minnesota residents are required to go through a training course if they intend to possess a Permit to Carry. It is also recommended that every gun owner take a firearms safety course at some point.

Getting a Permit to Carry a Handgun

In order to acquire a Permit to Carry, the individual will need to pass a background check. This background check cannot show any restrictions to owning or purchasing a gun. A mandatory firearm instruction course must also be completed, and the appropriate documentation presented at the time of application. A Permit to Carry also serves as a Permit to Purchase, but it is good for five years, as opposed to only one year with a Permit to Purchase.

Get a Permit to Purchase a Handgun

A Permit to Purchase can be applied for at your local Sheriff's office, and serves as a permit to purchase firearms that require said permit for up to one year.

Keep the Permit to Carry Renewed

In Minnesota, Permits to Carry need to be renewed every five years. A failure to renew this license makes it illegal for the individual to carry weapons from then on. Permits to Purchase must be renewed every year in order to be able to continue purchasing firearms that require the permit.

 If you need help through the process of purchasing a gun, our staff at Metro Pawn & Gun can provide more detailed information. Contact us today to find out more!