Delaware Gun Laws 2024

Firearms Purchasing in Delaware

Delaware requires background checks for all firearms sales, including private sales and transfers. The checks are conducted through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and involve the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).  A permit to purchase is not required for buying rifles, shotguns, or handguns in Delaware. There is no mandatory waiting period for purchasing firearms in Delaware.

Firearms Possession

Delaware permits the ownership and possession of firearms, including handguns, rifles, and shotguns, by law-abiding individuals who are not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing firearms. Delaware prohibits individuals convicted of certain crimes, including violent felonies, domestic violence offenses, and drug offenses, from possessing firearms. Additionally, individuals subject to certain protection orders or deemed mentally ill may be prohibited from firearm possession. Delaware has restrictions on the possession and purchase of firearms by individuals under the age of 18. Exceptions exist for certain circumstances, such as supervised use for educational purposes or when participating in lawful hunting or sporting activities.

Is It Legal to Carry a Gun in Delaware?

Delaware requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm. To obtain a concealed carry permit, an individual must meet specific eligibility criteria, including completing an application, undergoing a background check, and demonstrating a justifiable need to carry a concealed firearm. *Unconstitutional

Delaware generally prohibits the open carry of firearms, except for certain individuals who hold valid concealed carry permits.