An Indiana Firearm Bill of Sale is a document that proves a gun sale took place. It contains signatures from the seller and buyer, along with any witnesses to the sale. Although Indiana doesn’t legally require this document, it can serve as a receipt and protect the legal rights of both parties.
Indiana does not impose a waiting period for firearms purchases, making the process quicker compared to other states.
State Laws for Selling a Gun in Indiana
Minimum Age to Purchase
Indiana prohibits selling or transferring firearms to individuals under 18 unless they are being supervised and the transfer occurs at their residence or property owned by a parent or guardian [1] .
Permit for Purchase
Indiana does not require a state permit to purchase firearms, and there are no waiting periods for gun purchases. However, sellers (both private and retail) must follow federal standards for prohibited purchasers.
Register a Gun
Indiana does not mandate the registration or licensing of firearms. This relaxed approach makes private firearm sales relatively simple.
Open Carry Permit
Open Carry is legal in Indiana. Age to open carry is 18 [2] .
Concealed Carry Permit
Indiana does not require a permit for either open or concealed carry within the state [3] . However, residents may apply for a concealed carry permit if they plan to carry their firearm in states with reciprocity agreements with Indiana.
How to Apply for a Concealed Carry Permit in Indiana
Indiana is a “shall-issue” state, meaning a permit will be granted to any applicant who qualifies under state law.
Steps to apply:
- Complete Application: Submit a Handgun License application through the Indiana State Police.
- Get Fingerprinted: Visit a registered fingerprinting location for fingerprint submission.
- Pass Background Check: Applicants must pass a background check to qualify for a permit.
- Pay Fees: Within 90 days of submitting fingerprints, visit your local law enforcement agency to pay the application fee.
Fees: Online applications expire after 180 days if the applicant does not visit the law enforcement agency in person.
Gun Reciprocity
Eleven states have unrestricted reciprocity with Indiana for concealed carry permits, while 21 states have restricted reciprocity. [2]
Firearm Restrictions in Indiana
Under Indiana law, certain individuals are prohibited from owning or purchasing firearms [4] [5] . These include individuals:
- Convicted of a serious felony or domestic battery.
- Determined by a court to be a danger to themselves or others [6] .
- Who are unlawfully present in the United States.
Firearm Inheritance Laws
Indiana does not have laws requiring registration or licensing of firearms. Firearms passed down by inheritance can be accepted if the recipient is legally qualified to own them. Minors cannot legally receive a firearm until they turn 18.
