A Kentucky Firearm Bill of Sale documents the legal transfer of firearm ownership from a seller to a buyer. While not required by state law, it can help both parties avoid future disputes by clearly recording the transaction details.
Kentucky law permits private firearm sales, with no need for background checks or waiting periods. The sale can be completed the same day the firearm is purchased, with no obligation to report the sale to state or local authorities.
State Laws for Selling a Gun in Kentucky
Minimum Age to Purchase
There are no Kentucky-specific restrictions on firearm sales based on age, but federal law requires buyers to be at least 18 years old for long guns and 21 years old for handguns.
Permit for Purchase
Kentucky does not require a permit to purchase firearms in private-party sales or dealer transactions. Sellers must only ensure they do not sell to individuals prohibited from owning a firearm under federal law.
Register a Gun
There is no firearm registration requirement in Kentucky. Guns can be bought, sold, or inherited without any registration process.
Open Carry Permit
Open carry is legal in Kentucky for individuals aged 18 and over. No permit is required for open carry [1] .
Concealed Carry Permit
Kentucky allows any individual aged 21 or older who is legally allowed to possess a firearm to carry a concealed firearm without a permit [2] . However, residents may apply for a Concealed Carry Deadly Weapon (CCDW) license if they wish to carry a firearm outside of Kentucky.
How to Apply for a Concealed Carry Deadly Weapon (CCDW) License
Steps to Apply for a CCDW License in Kentucky:
- Submit Application: File your CCDW application with your local county sheriff’s office.
- Pay Fees: Pay a $20 application fee and a separate check or money order of $40 to the Kentucky State Treasurer.
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Include Documentation: Submit the required documents, including:
- Your name, address, date of birth, gender, and social security number.
- An original color photograph.
- A photocopy of your firearm training course certification.
- Approval Process: The sheriff’s office will approve or deny the application within 60 days.
Gun Reciprocity
Kentucky recognizes all valid concealed carry permits from U.S. states and jurisdictions. Kentucky’s CCDW license is recognized in most states, while some states may impose additional restrictions for Kentucky CCDW license holders [3] .
Restrictions on Firearm Ownership
Kentucky law, aligned with federal regulations, prohibits certain individuals from purchasing or possessing firearms, including [4] :
- Convicted felons.
- Individuals convicted of violent misdemeanors.
- Persons subject to domestic violence restraining orders.
- Individuals with substance abuse disorders.
Firearm Inheritance Laws
Kentucky has minimal restrictions on firearm inheritance. However, firearms cannot be transferred to individuals prohibited from owning a gun due to criminal history or other restrictions. Consider setting up a gun trust or designating alternate recipients if the intended heir cannot legally own a firearm.
