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FBI Gun Laws And NICs Information Center
Information and updates on U.S. Gun Laws, Ownership, and the FBI NICs Instant Criminal Background Check System.

US Gun Laws by State

Get detailed US gun laws by state, covering concealed carry permits, open carry restrictions, and background check requirements.

  • Alaska Background Check and Gun Laws

    Alaska is the first state to adopt carry laws mimicking Vermont's (normally referred to as "Vermont Carry"), in which no license is required to carry a handgun either openly or concealed. However, licenses are still issued to residents who want them for purposes of carrying in other states via reciprocity, to be in complete compliance…

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  • Alabama Background Checks and Gun Laws

    Alabama is classified as a “may issue” state; Alabama law states, “The sheriff of a county may, upon the application of any person residing in that county, issue a qualified or unlimited license to such person to carry a pistol in a vehicle or concealed on or about his person within this state for not…

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