What is the Minimum Age to Purchase Firearms and Ammunition in Colorado?

According to Public Safety, to buy a handgun in Colorado, you must be a resident of Colorado and at least 21 years old. To purchase a rifle, you must be at least 18 years old, and residency in Colorado is not required. The same age requirements apply to purchasing ammunition [1].

Is There a Waiting Period & Background Check to Purchase Firearms?

Before legally buying a firearm in Colorado, you must pass a background check by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the NICS federal system. This involves completing an ATF form 4473 and typically takes around twenty minutes for approval, though current high demand can extend this to about three days [2].

The waiting period does not apply to the sale of an antique firearm or a curio or relic; the sale of a firearm by a person serving in the armed forces who will be deployed outside of the United States within the next 30 days to any family member; or a firearm transfer for which a background check is not required pursuant to state or federal law

What Do I Need to Purchase a Firearm?

According to SCLG, to buy a firearm, you need a valid form of identification, and proof of Colorado residency, and must comply with local regulations [3].

Colorado residents age 21 and over must pass a Colorado Bureau of Investigations (CBI) background check before they can legally purchase a handgun. This requires the buyer to fill out an ATF form 4473 at the gun store. Then the store will submit it to the CBI InstaCheck system

What is an Acceptable Form of Identification?

Acceptable IDs include a valid Colorado driver’s license, state ID card, military ID, or a temporary ID with a government-issued photo ID. If your ID does not show your current address, additional proof of residency, such as a DMV registration or hunting/fishing license, is required.

Can Any Colorado ID Be Used for Purchases?

Yes, but if your Colorado ID does not show your current address, you must provide proof of lawful residency with documents like a valid hunting/fishing license, vehicle registration, or a U.S. passport with matching addresses.

I Am in the Military, Can I Buy a Gun? What Do I Need?

Military personnel can purchase firearms with a military ID and current orders showing permanent duty in Colorado. If stationed temporarily or without permanent duty orders, additional proof of residency, like a Colorado driver’s license, is required.

What Do I Need for Proof of Residency?

Federal law requires a government-issued ID with a residence address. If your ID shows a P.O. Box or outdated address, provide a second form of government-issued documentation, such as a DMV printout or vehicle registration.

I Am an Alien. Can I Buy (or Rent) a Gun and/or Ammunition?

Yes, immigrant aliens and those from visa-waiver countries can purchase firearms and ammunition if they meet all other purchase requirements and provide additional documentation, such as an INS-issued Alien Registration Card.

Can I Fill Out the Background Check Ahead of Time?

No, the background check must be completed after selecting a serialized item for purchase or when your out-of-state transfer arrives and is logged into the ATF records.

Related Articles:

See all related personal injury lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and are currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one was involved with these matters, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

References:
1. https://publicsafety.colorado.gov/colorado-gun-laws
2. https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb23-1219
3. https://www.shouselaw.com/co/blog/gun-laws/what-are-the-requirements-for-buying-a-handgun-in-colorado/

How to Buy a Handgun in Colorado: Requirements To Know About