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Firearm disqualifications in New Jersey

What disqualifies you from owning a firearm in New Jersey?

Someone in New Jersey is disqualified from owning a firearm if they are:

• anyone convicted of a crime in New Jersey
• anyone convicted of the felony counterpart in any other State or federal jurisdiction
• anyone convicted of a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey involving an act of domestic violence
• anyone convicted of a felony in another state or federal jurisdiction comparable to an act of domestic violence
• anyone who is presently configured for a mental disorder regardless of whether it was voluntary, involuntary or by commitment or had been in the past and the record has not been expunged
• anyone who suffers from a physical defect or disease that would make it unsafe for them to handle firearms
• anyone with a substance use disorder involving drugs
• an alcoholic
• anyone under 21
• a person lacking the essential character of temperament necessary to be entrusted with a firearm
• anyone who is subject to or violated a temporary or final restraining order prohibiting them from possessing a firearm
• anyone who as a juvenile was adjudicated delinquent for an offense involving the unlawful use or possession of a firearm, explosive, or destructive device, which if committed by an adult would constitute a crime
• anyone whose firearm was previously seized and not returned
• anyone on the FBI's consolidated Terrorist Watchlist
• anyone who has violated a court order regarding ownership, control, possession, or receipt of a firearm
• anyone subject to an outstanding arrest warrant for an indictable crime or a felony
• anyone who is a fugitive from justice to avoid prosecution or giving testimony
• anyone who has not completed a firearm safety course within the last 4 years

• an individual with a physical defect or disease can submit a certificate from a medical doctor or treatment provider indicating that the person no longer suffers from that defect or disease that would have otherwise interfered with their ability to handle firearms

Felony restrictions on firearms in New Jersey

Those convicted of a felony in New Jersey:

• cannot obtain a permit to purchase a handgun
• cannot obtain a firearms purchaser identification card to purchase rifles

Mental health restrictions on firearms in New Jersey

• anyone confined for a mental disorder on a voluntary, involuntary or commitment basis
• anyone with a substance use disorder
• an alcoholic
• someone with a substance use or alcohol use disorder can provide a certificate of a medical doctor, treatment provider or psychiatrist licensed in New Jersey indicating that the person is no longer suffering from that particular disability that would interfere with their ability to handle firearms

New Jersey Military Firearm Restrictions and Exceptions

They must still apply for a permit to purchase a handgun or Firearms Purchaser Identification Card and provide a copy of their military orders showing that they are stationed in New Jersey

More on New Jersey Firearm Laws