Arkansas has some of the most relaxed firearm laws in the nation. Lighter firearm regulation can be convenient, but it may also make you worry about selling any pieces you own, so you should consider an Arkansas firearm bill of sale.
- What is an Arkansas Firearm Bill of Sale?
- What Are the Requirements for Selling a Firearm in Arkansas?
- Documents Needed To Complete a Firearm Bill of Sale in Arkansas
- Additional Arkansas Gun Laws
- Concealed and Open Carry Laws in Arkansas
- Arkansas Firearm Reciprocity
- How To Write a Firearm Bill of Sale in Arkansas
- Summary
- Arkansas Firearm Bill of Sale Sample
What is an Arkansas Firearm Bill of Sale?
An Arkansas firearm bill of sale is a form a gun owner uses to transfer firearm ownership to another individual.
This document proves the firearm transfer from the seller to the buyer. It is not a state form, but a document that helps minimize risk for both parties.
What Are the Requirements for Selling a Firearm in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not require a state permit for the sale or purchase of firearms.
The law requires any firearm dealer selling regularly to have the proper license and that anyone selling a gun only does so to people who are not prohibited under state or federal law from possessing a firearm.
Private Parties Selling Firearms in Arkansas
Private sales of firearms do not have any strict regulations in the state. You can sell to anyone as long as they can legally own a firearm.
However, to protect yourself, it is a good idea to use an Arkansas firearm transfer form, which can serve as proof of the sale and provide you with protection in the future.
Does the Law in Arkansas Require a Firearm Bill of Sale?
Arkansas law does not require a bill of sale for a firearm.
Still, it is a good idea to create one for every transaction because you may need proof later on for legal reasons.
Gun Inheritance Laws in Arkansas
Arkansas does not have any specific inheritance laws about firearms.
You just need to follow the general rules about prohibited owners. It is a good idea to have a formal account of the transfer, such as with a will or a gun trust.
Documents Needed To Complete a Firearm Bill of Sale in Arkansas
When creating an Arkansas firearm bill of sale, you will want to ensure you have the following information and documentation:
- State Identification card for the buyer. You may want to copy it and attach it to the form
- Any firearm documentation and details, such as make, model, and serial number
- Payment terms and a receipt for the collection of payment
- Any warranty details or notice of as-is sale
Additional Arkansas Gun Laws
Who Cannot Purchase a Firearm in Arkansas?
One of the most important things to know when selling a firearm is the list of people prohibited from owning one. You could face legal issues if you sell a firearm to a prohibited owner.
Arkansas Code Section 5-73-101 outlines who cannot own firearms, which include:
- Minors (under the age of 18)
- Any person convicted of a felony
- People with a judgment of mental illness or who have been treated in a mental institution
Do note a person can regain their rights.
If this is the case, they should be able to present you with documentation that you will want to attach to the Arkansas firearm bill of sale.
Does Arkansas Have a Waiting Period for Firearm Sales?
There is no waiting period between the time of the sale and the actual transfer of the firearm for private sales in Arkansas.
There may be waiting periods for sales through licensed dealers as they must follow federal law.
Can You Buy a Firearm in Arkansas Without Registering It?
The state does not require firearm registration. There is also no permit requirement for purchases.
Background checks are a requirement under federal law for licensed dealers.
Does a Firearm Bill of Sale Have To Be Notarized in Arkansas?
If you decide to create an Arkansas firearm bill of sale, you do not have to get the signatures notarized.
However, if you have any concerns about the transaction, it may be a good idea to have your signatures on the form notarized.
Is a Record of Firearms Sent to Police in Arkansas?
There is no requirement to alert police that you have sold or purchased a firearm in Arkansas.
Concealed and Open Carry Laws in Arkansas
How To Apply To Carry a Concealed Handgun in Arkansas
While you do not need a license to own a firearm in Arkansas, you must secure a license to carry a concealed handgun. You will need to go through the state police to get the permit.
You must meet the following requirements:
- Be an Arkansas resident for at least 90 days
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 21 years old or 18 if you are a member of the U.S. armed forces
- Be free of mental illness
- Be free of physical issues that would prevent you from safely handling a gun
- Have no felony convictions or active warrants
- Not be federally prohibited from possessing a firearm
- Be free of substance addiction
- Swear that carrying is for your personal defense
You must complete an application and background check process, including paying fees. The state police will issue the license once it processes and approves your application.
Arkansas Firearm Reciprocity
Arkansas does honor concealed handgun carry permits from other states. However, you must follow all laws in the state for carrying.
Other states may honor an Arkansas license, subject to each state’s laws.
How To Write a Firearm Bill of Sale in Arkansas
Creating an Arkansas firearm bill of sale is not regulated under the law, so it is up to you to ensure that you do it properly to use the form in the future as proof of the transaction.
Step 1 – Local Gun Laws
Make sure you understand your local gun laws.
Step 2 – Background Check
Run a background check on the buyer.
Step 3 – Permits
Ask for any permits or licenses the buyer possesses and make copies.
Step 4 – Buyer
Meet in person with the firearm buyer.
Step 5 – Bill of Sale
Complete an Arkansas firearm bill of sale form, ensuring both parties sign it.
Step 6 – Finish Sale
Complete the firearm transaction.
Summary
Selling a firearm in Arkansas is an easy process. There are no formal regulations about what you must do or how the transaction must occur.
Still, if you wish to protect yourself and ensure that you do not end up with legal issues concerning the firearm, you should create an Arkansas firearm bill of sale.
This document can protect you and ensure that you are not liable for the firearm after you transfer ownership.
Arkansas Firearm Bill of Sale Sample
Below is an example of what an Arkansas firearm bill of sale looks like.
