Legal Templates

Kentucky Firearm Bill of Sale

Use our Kentucky firearm bill of sale template to create a legal document proving the sale and transfer of a gun in Kentucky.

Updated March 17, 2023 | Legally reviewed by Susan Chai, Esq.

Proper procedures must be followed if you plan to sell a firearm in Kentucky. This is true even if you are a private party selling a gun to a friend or family member. 

Table of Contents

What Is a Kentucky Firearm Bill of Sale?

A Kentucky Firearm Bill of Sale documents a gun’s sale and ownership transfer. It legally records a new owner and helps mitigate risk for both the seller and buyer.

Learn all about creating a Kentucky firearm bill of sale.

What Are the Requirements for Selling a Firearm in Kentucky?

The requirements for selling a firearm in Kentucky vary depending on the circumstances.

For instance, private parties selling a firearm in Kentucky may follow different rules than a licensed firearm dealer and gun retail store. 

Private Parties Selling Firearms in Kentucky

According to Kentucky law, private individuals are allowed to own firearms and sell them privately. You do not need a formal dealer’s license if you want to sell an old firearm.

You also do not have to require the buyer to register the firearm to make the purchase, and no background checks are needed.

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

A Kentucky firearm bill of sale is not legally required but is always a good idea. A Kentucky firearm bill of sale is a type of transfer form that documents the legal sale of the firearm.

If you need to prove the sale took place, a bill of sale can be handy.

Gun Inheritance Laws in Kentucky

Kentucky has few laws and restrictions regarding transferring firearm ownership or firearm inheritance.

One of the only statutes is that a firearm may not be sold or bequeathed to someone prohibited by federal or state law from owning a gun – usually due to a past criminal record.

If you plan to bequeath a firearm as part of your estate, ensure you have an alternate recipient in case the intended recipient cannot own firearms or consider setting up a gun trust. 

Documents Needed To Complete a Firearm Bill of Sale in Kentucky

Even though a firearm bill of sale is not required in Kentucky, creating one as a record of the transfer may be beneficial.

In addition, you should consider gathering the following documentation:

  • Driver License or State IDs of both parties providing the names and addresses of the buyer and seller
  • Firearm registration document to provide a thorough description of the firearm being sold

You may also choose to have witnesses or a notary sign the bill of sale in addition to the seller and buyer’s signatures.

Additional Kentucky Firearm Laws

Who Cannot Purchase a Firearm in Kentucky?

Convicted felons, as well as those convicted of violent misdemeanors, are prohibited from purchasing a firearm.

In addition, people with domestic violence restraining orders out on them or those with substance abuse disorders cannot purchase a firearm.  

Does Kentucky Have a Waiting Period for Gun Sales?

Kentucky has no waiting period between purchasing the firearm and the actual transfer.

You can purchase a firearm and take it home the same day.

Can You Buy a Firearm in Kentucky Without Registering It?

Yes. There are no Kentucky laws that require you to register a firearm. 

Does a Firearm Bill of Sale Have To Be Notarized in Kentucky?

A notary public does not have to acknowledge a Kentucky firearm bill of sale.

However, having the signatures notarized adds authenticity to the signatures.

Is a Record of Firearms Sent to Police in Kentucky?

No law requires a record of firearm sales to be sent to any state or local agency in Kentucky.

No background checks or records are necessary. 

Concealed and Open Carry Laws in Kentucky

Kentucky allows any individual, age 21 or older and otherwise legally able to possess a firearm, to carry concealed firearms without a license (KY Rev. Stat. § 237.109).

In addition, open carry is legal and permissible in Kentucky for those aged 18 or older (KY Rev. Stat. § 527.100).

How to Apply To Carry a Concealed Firearm in Kentucky

Even though a concealed carry license is not required in Kentucky, you might still want to apply for a Concealed Carry Deadly Weapon (CCDW) license for use when out of state.

To apply for concealed carry in Kentucky, you must submit an application with a county sheriff’s office.

You will need to pay a $20 application fee at the time and make a check or money order for $40, payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer. Your application will need to include the following.

  • Your name, address, date of birth, gender, and social security number
  • An original color photograph compliant with Kentucky regulations
  • A photocopy of a certification of your completion of firearm training courses

Kentucky Firearm Reciprocity

Kentucky recognizes concealed carry permits from all valid U.S. jurisdictions.

If you have a permit for concealed carry in another state, this will also apply in Kentucky. Likewise, a Kentucky concealed carry permit is reciprocal in all states and jurisdictions except for:

  • California
  • Connecticut
  • Hawaii
  • Illinois
  • Massachusetts
  • Maryland
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York (including New York City)
  • Oregon
  • Rhode Island
  • Washington
  • Washington D.C.

Reciprocal States With Restrictions

The following states recognize a concealed carry permit from Kentucky, with certain restrictions:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Florida
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Maine
  • Michigan
  • Missouri
  • Oklahoma
  • Pennsylvania
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • West Virginia
  • Wyoming

How to Write a Firearm Bill of Sale in Kentucky

Need to write a firearm bill of sale? Here are the steps that you’ll need to follow:

Step 1 – Research Your Local Firearm Laws

Although Kentucky has few state firearm restrictions, local jurisdictions may vary.

Research local firearm laws, especially those concerning firearm transfer, before drafting your firearm bill of sale.

Step 2 – Perform a Background Check

A background check, while not legally required, can tell you whether the potential buyer can own a firearm in Kentucky.

It can also give you a sense of confidence in selling your firearm.

Step 3 – Meeting With a Potential Buyer

Besides the background check, meet with the potential buyer to determine whether you want to sell them your firearm.

Step 4 – Ask for a Gun License or Permit

Although this is not a legal requirement in Kentucky, it’s best practice to ask for a firearm permit and a concealed carry license.

Step 5 – Arrange an In-Person Exchange

Set up a time that works for both parties to finalize the sale and transfer ownership of the firearm. 

Step 6 – Note the Parties Involved in the Firearm Sale

You can use our Kentucky firearm bill of sale to help with your sale.

Make sure to fill in the seller and buyer’s names and contact information.

Step 7 – Complete a Firearm Bill of Sale

You will then need to complete the rest of the firearm bill of sale.

This will detail the make, model, manufacturer, serial number, and specifications of the firearm, as well as payment information.

Step 8 – Note the Details of the Firearm Sale

Ensure not to leave out any details requested in the firearm bill of sale.

The entire form needs to be filled out. From there, you can make copies, giving one to the buyer and keeping one for yourself. 

Summary

Legal Templates can provide you with a Kentucky firearm bill of sale template and help you build your own.

Use our form builder below to prepare for your firearm ownership transfer. 

Kentucky Firearm Bill of Sale Sample

Below is an example of a Kentucky firearm bill of sale.

kentucky firearm bill of sale