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How to Register a Gun
Connecticut is among the top 10 states with the strictest gun legislation. Technically speaking, “registration” is only demanded for specific assault rifles. That being said, the state implements certain procedures that register each process of attaining a firearm. People interested in buying a firearm must first acquire a “Certificate of Eligibility” to purchase a gun, whether a handgun, long gun, or even ammunition.
Certain legal obligations must be fulfilled when transferring gun ownership in a private sale. The bill of sale must be accompanied by an Application to Purchase a Firearm (Form DPS-67-C) executed by the buyer. Also, the seller must contact the SLFU (Special Licensing and Firearms Unit) to request an “authorization number” specific to the sale taking place and then transcribe it to both forms. Connecticut law states that the seller must preserve an original copy of Form DPS-3-C & DPS-67-C for a minimum of 20 years and additionally supply duplicates of the bill of sale to the buyer, police department located within the town of the buyer’s residence, and Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection. (Reach the SLFU by calling 1-860-685-8400 or 1-888-335-8438.)
How to Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility
In order to acquire a Certificate of Eligibility to purchase a firearm, interested parties must have a minimum age of 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns. Provide the necessary items listed below (Certificate of Eligibility does not permit the carrying of firearms):
- A valid form of positive photo identification.
- A completed Permit to Purchase Application (signatures must be executed in the presence of an authorized official; A photo of the applicant will be taken upon signing):
- For Pistols: Pistol Permit/Eligibility Certificate Application – Form DPS-799-C (must check the box requesting an “Eligibility Certificate to Purchase Pistols or Revolvers”)
- For Long Guns: Individuals looking to purchase long guns must contact the SLFU by telephone at 860-685-8290 and request an application packet containing the form mentioned above as well as Form DPS-164-C (not available online).
- Results confirming the passing of a criminal background check provided by the DPS (Department of Public Safety).
- Proof that the applicant completed an approved gun safety/training course (endorsed by a certified firearms instructor).
- A set of the applicant’s fingerprints pressed onto a state and federal fingerprint card (conducted by an appointed agent).
- If requested, the applicant must provide all information concerning their criminal and mental health records in accordance with C.G.S § 29-36g.
- Preparation of funds to appease any charges connected to the application process.
Send the above materials to:
Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
1111 Country Club Road
Middletown, Connecticut, 06457-2389
(If the applicant questions their qualifications for obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility for a pistol or revolver, read the following Connecticut General Statutes – § 29f-36i.)
How to Obtain a Concealed Carry Permit
Connecticut is labeled a “May-Issue” state, which means it is ultimately up to the governing body’s discretion to approve or deny your application in compliance with the “suitability clause”. However, it tends to operate more like a “Shall-Issue” state because they have limited discretion due to certain court rulings. The person(s) applying must be at least 21 years of age and have lived within Connecticut for at least 90 days. Before applying for a state permit (which is issued by the DESPP), applicants must first obtain a local permit granted by the police chief appointed to their jurisdiction. To acquire a local permit, meet the necessary requirements specified below:
- Contact your local city/town hall, police department, or first selectman’s office for details on receiving the paperwork required for the application process.
- Examine the state’s firearm prohibitions to ensure that you are an acceptable candidate for a permit.
- Submit to a criminal background check administered by a qualified individual.
- Provide a set of fingerprints applied to an official state and federal card (carried out by authorized personnel).
- Supply photos of the candidate that meet the application’s standards.
- Furnish proof that you reside within the United States legally, e.g., passport, birth certificate, or if you are a legal immigrant, your A-Number (Alien Registration Number), and evidence supporting the claim that you have been a resident of Connecticut for a minimum of 90 days. Naturalized citizens must furnish documentation proving that they legitimately retain citizenship.
- Have funds readily available to cover any costs attached to the application process.
Contact your local authorities to find out how you can deliver the documentation listed above. Once the above requirements have been delivered to the assigned department, they have 8 weeks to process the application for approval or denial. (If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision.)
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