Complete a Form STS-33 (Application for Firearms Identification Card and/or Handgun Purchase Permit)
get fingerprinted
supply two references who must return their questionnaires completed
complete a consent to mental health records check
pay an application fee of $5 for a firearms identification card and $2 for a handgun purchase permit
rifles, shotguns, black powder rifles and BB guns can be purchased with a Firearms Identification Card.
handguns can only be purchased with a Handgun Purchase Permit
Requirements to hold a firearm license
at least 21 years old to obtain a handgun
at least 18 years old to obtain a rifle, shotgun, black powder rifle, or BB gun
pass background check
no felony convictions
not under indictment
not a fugitive from justice
not suffering from a physical defect or disease that would make it unsafe for them to handle firearms
does not have a substance use disorder involving drugs
not an alcoholic
has essential character of temperament necessary to be entrusted with a firearm
not subject to or previously violated a temporary or final restraining order
not on FBI's terrorist watchlist
not currently or previously committed to a mental institution
More information on Federal Firearm Licensees (FFL), as well as what each license type can do, can be found on our FFL home page.
We also have a very helpful
FFL search tool if you want to search by postal code, state, business name, or even license number.
Does New Jersey Require a Background Check to purchase a Firearm?
Yes, New Jersey has a state law that requires a background check prior to the sale of a firearm.
all firearm purchasers must obtain a permit to purchase a handgun or a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card both of which require a background check through either New Jersey State Police or local law enforcement and NICS
Owning a firearm in New Jersey
Does New Jersey have a Gun Free Zone law?
Yes, New Jersey has a defined list of gun free zones:
place owned, leased, or under control of state, county or municipal government and used for purposes of government administration
police stations
courts
correctional or juvenile justice facilities and jails
state-contracted halfway house
polling places during an election
place used for storage or tabulation of ballots
within 100 feet of a place where public gathering or demonstration is being held which requires a government permit
school, school bus, college, university, or other educational institution
child care facility including day care
nursery school, pre-school, summer camp
zoo
park, beach, recreation facility, or playground owned by state, county or local government
youth sports events except for firearm shooting competitions
library or museums that are publicly owned or leased
community residence for individuals with developmental disabilities, head injuries or terminal illnesses
bar or restaurant where alcohol is served
anywhere where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises
Class 5 cannabis retailer or medical cannabis dispensary including consumption areas
privately or publicly owned and operated entertainment facilities including theaters, stadiums, museums, arenas, race tracks, or other places where performances, concerts, exhibits, games or contests are held
casinos including co-located hotels, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues
energy plants
health care facilities including hospitals, medical officers, ambulatory care centers, extended care facilities and nursing homes
addiction or mental health treatment centers
public location being used for making a motion picture or television show during times location is being used for that purpose
private property unless owner has provided express consent to carry a concealed handgun on the premises
any other place in which carrying a firearm is prohibited by federal or state statute or regulation
Does New Jersey Require a Safety Course to own a Firearm?
Yes, you are required to take a safety course prior to owning a firearm in New Jersey.
includes online instructions, in-person classroom instruction, and target training