A Louisiana Firearm Bill of Sale documents the legal transfer of firearm ownership between a seller and a buyer. While not mandated by Louisiana law, a bill of sale is a good way to protect both parties by clearly outlining the transaction details and mitigating potential legal risks.
Private firearm sales in Louisiana do not require background checks, and there is no waiting period for the transfer of ownership. However, restrictions do apply in specific circumstances, especially regarding the eligibility of buyers to legally own firearms.
State Laws for Selling a Gun in Louisiana
Minimum Age to Purchase
Louisiana does not impose specific state restrictions on firearm sales based on age, but federal law requires buyers to be at least:
- 18 years old for long guns
- 21 years old for handguns
Permit for Purchase
Louisiana does not require a permit to purchase firearms, but sellers must ensure that they do not transfer firearms to individuals prohibited from owning a gun under federal or state law.
Register a Gun
There is no firearm registration requirement for most firearms in Louisiana. However, transactions involving modified shotguns, machine guns, and silencers must be documented [1] .
Open Carry Permit
Louisiana permits open carry for residents aged 18 and over who are not legally barred from owning a firearm. No permit is required for open carry under state law; however, local ordinances in place before 1985 may still apply in certain areas.
Concealed Carry Permit
Louisiana residents over 21 years old may carry a concealed firearm with a valid Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit.
How to Apply for a Concealed Handgun Permit
- Step 1 – Fill Out Application: Complete form DPSSP 4645 (Concealed Handgun Permit Application).
- Step 2 – Submit Documentation: Include your firearms safety training certification, arrest records (if any), and medical records.
- Step 3 – Get Fingerprinted: Obtain a full set of fingerprints from an authorized agency.
- Step 4 – Submit Application: Send your application and supporting documents to the Louisiana State Police Concealed Handgun Permit Unit.
- Step 5 – Pay Fees: Pay the required application fee (fees may vary by locality).
Gun Reciprocity
Louisiana has reciprocity with many states that recognize Louisiana concealed carry permits. Louisiana residents with valid concealed carry permits can carry their firearms in 39 states [2] .
Restrictions on Firearm Ownership
Louisiana law prohibits the sale or transfer of firearms to individuals who are:
- Convicted felons or anyone prohibited from owning a firearm [3] .
- Minors under the age of 18 (for handguns) unless they have written consent from a parent or guardian.
- Patients in treatment facilities [4] .
- Individuals subject to domestic violence restraining orders (firearms must be transferred to a third party outside the home).
Firearm Inheritance Laws
Louisiana law is silent on specific firearm inheritance regulations. However, firearms cannot be transferred to anyone prohibited by law from owning them, such as convicted felons. Consider setting up a gun trust or designating an alternate recipient if the intended heir cannot legally own a firearm.
