New Hampshire Gun Laws
If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in New Hampshire, here are some things about the permit process you should know:
New Hampshire is a permitless-carry state. Open carry and concealed carry are legal in New Hampshire without a license for any person 18 years of age or older who can legally possess a firearm. A Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) is not needed, but is issued to residents for concealed-carry reciprocity with other states. Local law enforcement office issues concealed-carry permits.
Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in New Hampshire?
No. New Hampshire does not have a waiting period to buy a firearm.
Do handguns need to be registered in New Hampshire?
No. In New Hampshire firearms do not have to be registered.
Is a permit required to purchase a firearm in New Hampshire?
No. A permit is not required to purchase firearms in New Hampshire.
Who is eligible to obtain a Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) in New Hampshire?
Any New Hampshire resident who is at least 18 years of age can apply for a Pistol/Revolver License (PRL).
Is firearms training a requirement for a New Hampshire Pistol/Revolver License (PRL)?
No. New Hampshire does not require firearms-safety training for a Pistol/Revovler License.
What are the requirements to obtain a New Hampshire Pistol/Revolver License (PRL)?
Applicants for a New Hampshire Pistol/Revolver License must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide three references
- Reside in New Hampshire
- Meet federal law requirements
What are the steps to obtain a Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) in New Hampshire?
- Download and complete an application from the New Hampshire Department of Safety State Police Division website dos.nh.gov.
- Submit the completed application to your local law enforcement office along with three references, and fee. A permit is issued within 14 days, if approved.
How much does a New Hampshire Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) cost?
A New Hampshire Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) costs $10.
Does New Hampshire recognize pistol permits from other states?
Yes. New Hampshire has permitless carry. Any person 18 years of age and older who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a license or permit.
Is New Hampshire a Constitutional Carry state?
Yes. New Hampshire is a Constitutional Carry state. No license is required to carry a firearm in public.
Is New Hampshire an Open Carry state?
Yes. Open Carry is legal in New Hampshire without a permit.
Is New Hampshire a Stand Your Ground State?
Yes. New Hampshire is a Stand Your Ground state. In New Hampshire, there is no duty to retreat.
Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in New Hampshire?
Yes. Magazine-fed semi-auto rifles are legal to buy and possess in New Hampshire.
Are standard-capacity magazines allowed in New Hampshire?
Yes. There are no magazine-capacity restrictions in New Hampshire.
Does New Hampshire have gun-storage laws?
Yes. New Hampshire has a gun-storage law that requires all gun owners keep firearms locked or out of the reach of children.
Is New Hampshire a Red Flag state?
No. New Hampshire does not have a red-flag law.
