Gun Registration, Licensing and Permit Laws in Nevada

Gun laws in Nevada allow for open carry of firearms without a license or registration. However, there are some restrictions and requirements for purchasing, owning, and carrying guns in the state. This article provides an overview of key laws and regulations for Nevada residents.

Purchasing Guns in Nevada

There is no permit required to purchase rifles, shotguns, or handguns from a licensed firearms dealer in Nevada[1].
You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a rifle or shotgun, and 21 years old to purchase a handgun[2].
Licensed dealers are required to conduct an FBI background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) prior to the transfer of any firearm to check for criminal history or other prohibiting factors[1].
Private sales between Nevada residents do not require a background check. However, private sales at gun shows do require a background check[3].
There is no waiting period to purchase a firearm after passing the background check[1].
Multiple handgun sales are restricted to one handgun per 30-day period[4].
Nevada does not have any state permit, license, or registration requirements for owning rifles, shotguns, or handguns[5].

Concealed Carry Permits

A permit is required to carry a concealed firearm in Nevada[6].
Nevada is a “shall issue” state, meaning the county sheriff must issue a concealed carry permit to any applicant who meets the requirements.
To get a concealed carry permit, applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old (18 for military)
- Complete an approved firearm safety training course
- Pass a background check
- Demonstrate competence with each handgun they wish to carry
Non-residents can apply for a Nevada concealed carry permit if they meet the requirements.
Nevada recognizes concealed carry permits from other states provided they meet certain conditions.
A concealed carry permit allows the holder to carry a concealed handgun anywhere it is legal to do so in Nevada. However, concealed carry may still be prohibited in some locations.

Open Carry Laws

Nevada state law allows open carry of firearms without a permit for anyone 18 or older who is legally allowed to possess firearms.
Open carry is generally permitted, but may be prohibited in certain locations like schools, childcare facilities, public buildings, and casinos.
Loaded open carry is legal in vehicles, but the firearm cannot be concealed on your person without a permit.
Cities and counties are prohibited from enacting open carry restrictions more stringent than state law.

Possession and Ownership Laws

There is no registration or permit required to own a rifle, shotgun, or handgun in Nevada[5].
It is illegal for certain persons to own or possess firearms in Nevada, including:
- Felons
- Fugitives
- Drug addicts
- Those adjudicated as mentally ill
- Illegal aliens
- Minors under 18 (with exceptions)
Nevada has passed a red flag law allowing law enforcement to petition a court for a temporary order to confiscate firearms from individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others.

Firearm Transportation Laws

You may transport firearms in a vehicle if they are unloaded and either 1) clearly visible or 2) carried in a closed container, locked trunk, or other compartment where they are not readily accessible.
If you have a valid concealed carry permit, you can transport a loaded handgun in your vehicle in concealed or open carry.
Long guns do not need to be unloaded, but must be clearly visible if in an open carry position in a vehicle.

Preemption of Local Laws

Nevada law states that firearm regulation is under the exclusive domain of the state legislature.
Local governments in Nevada are prohibited from enacting firearm laws more restrictive than state laws.

Federal Firearm Laws

Federal law requires licensed dealers to conduct background checks through NICS for all firearm sales, including at gun shows.
Under federal law, private sales between Nevada residents do not require a background check. However, private sales at gun shows do require a check.
Federal law prohibits possession of firearms by felons, fugitives, drug users, domestic abusers, and the mentally ill.

Nevada gun laws generally favor the rights of residents to own and carry firearms openly or concealed with few restrictions. Responsible gun owners should always make sure they understand all applicable state, federal, and local laws before purchasing or carrying firearms.