only required for firearms used in commission of a crime or person who has been convicted of a crime of violence
Requirements to hold a firearm license
21 years or older
good reason to fear an injury
has any other proper reason for carrying a firearm
they are a suitable person
obtained Pistol/Revolver Safety Certificate ("Blue Card") through RI Dept of Environmental Management
present certification of qualification with a pistol or revolver of a caliber equal to or greater than what person intends to carry
license required for open and closed carry
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 Rhode Island Require a Background Check to purchase a Firearm?
Yes, Rhode Island has a state law that requires a background check prior to the sale of a firearm.
concealed license holders are not subject to the state background check but must still complete the federal check
Owning a firearm in Rhode Island
Does Rhode Island have a Gun Free Zone law?
Yes, Rhode Island has a defined list of gun free zones:
schools and school grounds
Does Rhode Island Require a Safety Course to own a Firearm?
You are only required to take a firearm safety course under certain circumstances in Rhode Island.
Required to pass exam by RI Department of Environmental Management on handgun safety basics and RI firearms laws