A Mississippi firearm bill of sale documents the legal transfer of a firearm between a seller and buyer. While not required by state law, using a bill of sale provides clear evidence of the transaction and protects both parties.
Mississippi law does not have a waiting period for firearm sales, allowing immediate transfer of ownership.
State Laws for Selling a Gun in Mississippi
Minimum Age to Purchase
Mississippi law prohibits the possession of firearms by anyone under the age of 18, except in certain cases, such as when the person is a member of any branch of the United States Armed Forces. Sellers should ensure buyers are of legal age before completing the sale [1] .
Permit for Purchase
Mississippi does not require a state permit to purchase a firearm, whether through a private sale or a licensed dealer. However, sellers must ensure the buyer is legally allowed to own a firearm.
Register a Gun
Mississippi does not require firearm registration. This includes both handguns and long guns, and there is no state registry for privately sold firearms.
Open Carry Permit
Mississippi allows open carry of firearms without a permit. However, individuals must not display firearms in a threatening manner unless acting in self-defense [2] .
Concealed Carry Permit
Mississippi residents can carry a concealed weapon without a permit under the state’s “constitutional carry” law [2] . Despite this, individuals may still apply for a concealed carry permit, which can provide reciprocity when traveling to other states. Mississippi is a “shall-issue” state, meaning that anyone who meets the qualifications can obtain a concealed carry permit.
How to Apply
- Step 1 – Complete Training: Applicants must complete a firearm safety course approved by the Board of Law Enforcement Standards and Training.
- Step 2 – Submit Application: Fill out the application form and submit it with two valid forms of identification (e.g., driver’s license, tribal ID).
- Step 3 – Pay Fees: A $32 fee is required for fingerprinting and a background check.
- Step 4 – Wait for Issuance: The state will issue a permit within 45 days, provided the applicant passes the background check.
Gun Reciprocity
Mississippi recognizes concealed carry permits from all states that issue them. Likewise, Mississippi residents may carry a concealed firearm in several states under reciprocity agreements.
Restrictions on Firearm Ownership
Mississippi law prohibits certain individuals from owning firearms, including:
- Convicted felons, unless their firearm rights have been restored
- Individuals who are chronically intoxicated
- People involuntarily committed to mental health facilities, unless they have recovered for at least five years
Firearm Inheritance Laws
Firearms can be passed down to relatives without registration or permits, as long as the recipient is legally allowed to own a firearm under state law.
