Legal Templates

Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale

Use our attorney-drafted Connecticut firearm bill of sale form to transfer gun ownership from a seller to a buyer.

Updated March 14, 2023 | Legally reviewed by Susan Chai, Esq.

Connecticut takes firearm sales seriously, monitoring the process through the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit of the state police.

All transactions require completing the Connecticut firearm bill of sale form to create a record with the police. 

Table of Contents

What is a Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale?

A Connecticut firearm bill of sale is a document that gun sellers and buyers sign to transfer ownership of a firearm in Colorado.

It proves a transfer took place and provides evidence of legal ownership.

What Are The Requirements for Selling a Firearm in Connecticut?

Private Parties Selling Firearms in Connecticut

Private sales of pistols and revolvers are legal in the state, but it is the seller’s responsibility to complete the proper forms, DPS-67-C and DPS-3-C.

The seller must also contact the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit to get an authorization number for the transaction and the number must be added to both forms. The seller must retain the DPS-67-C for 20 years.

The seller holds onto the original copy of the DPS-3-C for their records, gives a copy to the buyer as a receipt and submits one copy to the local police and the Commission of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

It is also the seller’s responsibility to ensure the buyer has the legal right to purchase the pistol or revolver. Only residents of the state who have a valid permit or eligibility certificate or are police officers or firearm dealers can buy within Connecticut. 

These rules only apply to pistols and revolvers. The sale of long guns is illegal without a specific eligibility certificate (CGS Sec 29-37a(c)). It also requires an authorization number from the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection. 

Does the Law in Connecticut Require a Firearm Bill of Sale?

A Connecticut firearm bill of sale is a requirement, but it must be the official state form, DPS-3-C. This form requires standard information about the buyer, seller, and firearm being transferred.

You must complete it in full and provide all other documentation requested by authorities. 

Gun Inheritance Laws in Connecticut

To inherit a firearm in Connecticut, you must go through the same process as you would when buying one. You need to have a valid permit or eligibility certificate.

If you do not meet the requirements to own a firearm, you must surrender it to the police (CGS Section 29-36k) or transfer it to an eligible party.  

Documents Needed To Complete a Firearm Bill of Sale in Connecticut

Documents you need to have when completing a Connecticut firearm transfer form include the following:

  • Background check records showing the person is not ineligible
  • Valid state identification with correct information
  • Make, model, serial number, caliber, description, and barrel length of the gun
  • Name and address  of seller and buyer
  • Sale information, such as date, amount, and terms

The state police handle this process, so you may need to obtain additional documentation or take further steps to complete the DPS-3-C.

Additional Connecticut Gun Laws

Who Cannot Purchase a Firearm in Connecticut?

Connecticut law specifies that certain people are not eligible to own firearms (CGS Chapter 529).

Persons to whom any of the following apply are ineligible:

  • Criminal guilt based on mental illness
  • An illegal or unlawful alien
  • Subject to a restraining or protective order involving use or threatened use of physical force against another person
  • Residency in a mental hospital in the past 12 months
  • Convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors

You must be at least 21 years old to purchase handguns and at least 18 years old to purchase rifles and long guns.

You must pass the required criminal background check that the state police conduct to secure a permit to purchase a firearm.

Every person buying a firearm must have a valid permit. 

Does Connecticut Have a Waiting Period for Gun Sales?

Connecticut does not require a waiting period to buy a firearm.

However, securing the correct permit and completing the pre-purchase forms may take time due to the background check requirement. 

Can You Buy a Firearm in Connecticut Without Registering It?

You must go through the state police to buy any firearm, which also requires the submission of a Connecticut firearm bill of sale.

The Special Licensing and Firearms Unit also maintains a registry for owners of assault weapons and machine guns. 

Does a Firearm Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized in Connecticut?

The required bill of sale does not require notarization. However, getting the signatures notarized adds a layer of protection. 

Is a Record of Firearms Sent to Police in Connecticut?

The state’s Special Licensing and Firearms Unit manages and regulates the required documentation and necessary permits or licenses for all firearm sales transactions.

They also maintain the sales records, giving them a record of ownership. 

Concealed and Open Carry Laws in Connecticut

How To Apply To Carry a Firearm in Connecticut

Connecticut requires a permit to carry a pistol or revolver in public (CGS Section 29-35). A permit is not required to carry a firearm at home or in your place of business.

The rule does not apply to long guns; active duty military and law enforcement are exempt.

Permits are valid for five years and the state police issue them. A fee payment is required, along with a background check to secure the permit.

You also must supply proof that you have completed a firearm safety course. 

Connecticut Firearm Reciprocity

Connecticut requires anyone entering the state and wishing to carry a firearm to get a permit within the state (CGS Section 29-28(f)).

Visitors to the state with a valid permit in their home state can use their existing permit for specific purposes:

  • Taking a handgun training course
  • Seeking repair services
  • Attending gun shows
  • Transporting a firearm through the state during travel

Beyond these limited circumstances, Connecticut does not honor other states’ firearm permits.

Some other states do recognize a Connecticut firearm permit including:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Kentucky
  • Michigan
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Oklahoma
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Utah
  • Vermont

How To Write a Firearm Bill of Sale in Connecticut

Completing the Connecticut firearm bill of sale properly is essential to a legal gun sale.

You will need to follow these steps. 

Step – Local Laws

Know and understand the state law.

Step 2 – Background Check

Conduct a background check on the buyer.

Step 3 – Buyer Meeting

Meet with the buyer.

Step 4 – Permit

Get a copy of the buyer’s valid permit.

Step 5 – Transfer

Meet in person for the transfer.

Step 6 – Completion

Complete all state-required forms.

Summary

Completing a Connecticut firearm bill of sale is necessary within the state to legally sell or transfer a firearm.

You must go through the formal channels to legally conduct the transaction.

If you are considering selling a firearm within the state, you should check out Legal Templates easy-to-use form to help you gather the information you need to fill out the state documents. 

Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale Sample

Below is an example of what a Connecticut firearm bill of sale looks like.

connecticut firearm bill of sale