A Minnesota firearm bill of sale documents the legal transfer of ownership of a firearm from the seller to the buyer. This document provides proof of the transaction and ensures both parties comply with Minnesota state laws regarding firearm sales. Minnesota law requires individuals to obtain a Permit to Purchase or a Permit to Carry before purchasing certain types of firearms, such as pistols or assault weapons.
Private sales between individuals are allowed, but the seller must verify the buyer’s permit status before completing the transaction.
State Laws for Selling a Gun in Minnesota
Minimum Age to Purchase
In Minnesota, firearm purchase ages vary by type and seller. For handguns from licensed dealers, the minimum age is 21. For long guns, including assault weapons, from dealers, it’s 18.
Permit for Purchase
Individuals must have a permit to purchase or carry pistols and semi-automatic military-style assault weapons or undergo a background check before buying [1] .
Register a Gun
Minnesota does not require firearms to be registered with the state. However, those purchasing pistols or assault weapons must have a valid Permit to Purchase, which serves as verification for the buyer’s eligibility to own a firearm.
Open Carry Permit
Open carry is legal in Minnesota, but individuals must have a valid Permit to Carry to openly carry a handgun in public. Minnesota is a shall-issue state, meaning anyone who meets the necessary legal criteria can obtain a permit [2] .
Concealed Carry Permit
To carry a concealed firearm in Minnesota, individuals must obtain a Permit to Carry. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and complete an approved firearms training course before applying.
How to Apply
- Step 1 – Permit Application: Complete the Permit to Carry application form available through local law enforcement or online.
- Step 2 – Firearm Safety Course: Provide proof of completing a firearm safety training course.
- Step 3 – Submit Application: Submit the application, along with the required documents, to your local law enforcement agency.
- Step 4 – Fees: Pay the application fee (currently a maximum of $100 as of 2024).
- Step 5 – Issuance: Permits are issued within 30 days if the applicant meets all requirements.
Gun Reciprocity
Minnesota recognizes concealed carry permits from 15 states, but residents should check the reciprocity agreements before traveling. Currently, Minnesota permits are honored in 30 states. However, non-residents must follow Minnesota’s laws when carrying a firearm within the state.
Restrictions on Firearm Ownership
Minnesota prohibits certain individuals from owning firearms, including:
- Anyone under 18 years old (for long guns) and under 21 (for pistols and assault weapons).
- Convicted felons.
- Individuals who have been committed to a mental institution.
- People with active restraining orders for domestic violence.
- Individuals under court supervision for substance abuse or violent crimes.
Firearm Inheritance Laws
Minnesota law allows firearms to be inherited without registration, but the inheritor must meet all eligibility requirements to possess the firearm legally. For certain firearms like pistols or assault weapons, the inheritor may need to obtain a Permit to Purchase or Carry.
