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Can an 18-Year-Old Legally Own a Handgun in Arizona?

If you're 18 years old and living in Arizona, you might be wondering whether you can legally own or carry a handgun. The short answer is yes—but there are some important rules and restrictions you need to know.

Federal Law: Minimum Age to Buy a Handgun

Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(1)), you must be 21 years old to buy a handgun from a federally licensed firearms dealer (known as an FFL), to learn more about licensing visit Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives: Federal Firearms Licenses. That means you can't walk into a gun store and legally buy a handgun until you turn 21.

However, federal law does not ban 18-year-olds from owning or possessing a handgun. If you acquire the handgun through a private sale, gift, or inheritance, and you're not prohibited from having firearms, then you can legally own one.

Arizona Law: Possession and Carry of Firearms

Arizona is one of the most firearm-friendly states in the country. Here's what state law says:

Concealed Carry & the Role of the Arizona DPS

If you're under 21, you're not eligible to carry a handgun concealed without a permit. And here's the key part: you can't get a concealed weapons permit (CCW) in Arizona until you're 21.

But once you're of age, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Concealed Weapons Permit Unit administers the concealed weapons permit program under A.R.S. § 13-3112. Here's what that process typically looks like:

  • Eligibility check: You must be at least 21 and legally allowed to possess a firearm (no felony convictions, protective orders, etc.).
  • Required training: You need to complete an approved firearms safety course. This can be done in person or online if the provider is DPS-certified.
  • Application packet: You'll fill out the CCW application and submit it with:
    • A copy of your training certificate
    • Fingerprint cards (two copies, completed by law enforcement or a certified technician)
    • A copy of a valid photo ID
    • Payment for the application fee (currently $60, but check the DPS site for updates)

To apply for a Concealed Weapon Permit, follow this link: AZ DPS CCW Permit Application

  • Background check: DPS conducts a fingerprint-based criminal background check before issuing your permit.

Once approved, your permit is valid for 5 years. Carrying with a valid permit can make traveling with a firearm easier, since some other states honor Arizona's CCW under reciprocity agreements.

Benefits of Having a CCW Permit in Arizona

Even though Arizona is a "constitutional carry" state, where no permit is needed for concealed carry if you're 21 or older, having a CCW permit offers important advantages:

Important: Who Can't Possess a Firearm?

Even in Arizona, not everyone is allowed to possess a gun. Both state and federal law prohibit the following people from owning firearms:

  • Anyone convicted of a felony (unless their rights have been restored). To learn more about restoration of rights visit Arizona Judicial Branch: Firearm Restoration and NICS
  • People found mentally incompetent by a court
  • Individuals subject to certain protection or restraining orders
  • Those with certain domestic violence convictions

If you fall into any of these categories, it's illegal to own or possess any firearm—including a handgun.

What About Private Sales?

Private gun sales between Arizona residents are legal and do not require a background check. However, it's still illegal to sell or transfer a firearm to someone you know or have reason to believe is a prohibited possessor.

Restricted Areas for Firearms in Arizona

Based on Arizona law regarding the carrying of firearms, there are certain areas and circumstances where carrying a firearm, whether concealed or openly, is restricted. The following is a summary of these restricted areas.

Public Establishments and Events:

  • A firearm may not be carried into a public establishment or at a public event if the operator of the establishment or the sponsor of the event requests that the firearm be removed and placed in their custody. Exceptions are made for shooting ranges, hunting areas, or similar activities.

Election Polling Places:

  • It is unlawful to carry a firearm on the day of any election within election polling places unless specifically authorized by law.

School Grounds:

  • Possession of a deadly weapon is prohibited on K-12 school grounds, except when the firearm is unloaded and in a vehicle under the control of an adult, and the vehicle is locked with the firearm not visible.

Public and Private Property:

  • Property owners, tenants, employers, or business entities cannot enforce rules that prohibit the lawful transportation or storage of firearms in a locked vehicle or locked compartment on a motorcycle, provided the firearm is not visible from outside the vehicle.

Liquor Licensees:

  • A concealed weapons permit holder may carry a concealed handgun on the premises of a liquor licensee (e.g., bars, restaurants) unless the establishment posts a sign explicitly prohibiting firearms.

Vehicles and Transportation:

  • It is unlawful for anyone under 21 years of age to carry a concealed firearm within the immediate control of a vehicle. Firearms carried in a vehicle must be in a case, holster, scabbard, or stored in a compartment such as the trunk, pack, luggage, or glove compartment.

Carrying Without a License:

  • Arizona law allows individuals 21 years of age or older, who are not prohibited possessors, to carry a firearm openly or concealed without the need for a license. However, individuals carrying without a license must comply with requests from law enforcement officers if they inquire about carrying a concealed weapon during an investigation, such as a traffic stop.

These restricted areas and situations are designed to balance the right to carry firearms with the safety of the public and compliance with certain locations' rules and regulations. See the National Rifle Association's Institute for Legislative Action: Arizona Gun Laws, for more information on restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Arizona law allows responsible 18-year-olds to own and openly carry a handgun—so long as it wasn't purchased from a licensed dealer and you're not prohibited by law. But once you carry concealed, the rules change. You must wait until you're 21 to legally carry a concealed handgun without a permit.

Have questions about gun laws or facing charges related to firearm possession?

At Chuck Franklin Law, with over 37 years of experience, we understand that navigating Arizona's firearm laws can be complex and challenging. Whether you're dealing with firearm possession or carrying charges, our team is committed to providing skilled legal defense and a thoughtful approach to each case. We focus on protecting our clients' rights and developing strategic defenses tailored to their unique circumstances.

Disclaimer

This posted blog is in no way specific legal advice on any subject. It is intended to provide general information for the public.

If you need specific legal advice, call Chuck at 480-545-0700

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