Universal Background Check Requirement

Connecticut requires background checks for firearm transfers through licensed dealers, at gun shows, and between private individuals, subject to statutory exemptions. The state's universal background check system operates through its authorization number process, administered by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP).^[1]

How the System Works

Connecticut is a "point of contact" state for the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). DESPP performs the required background checks for firearm transfers covered by CGS 29-33 and CGS 29-37a, subject to their statutory exemptions. For transfers subject to CGS 29-33 or CGS 29-37a, the transferor must obtain a DESPP authorization number.^[2]

The authorization number process applies to both handguns (under CGS 29-33) and long guns (under CGS 29-37a). DESPP searches the NICS database and state records to determine whether the prospective buyer is eligible to receive a firearm.^[3]

Permit or Certificate Requirement

Subject to statutory exemptions and the handgun officer exception, buyers must hold a valid credential to purchase or receive a firearm.^[1]

• For handguns, buyers must hold a State Pistol Permit, a Permit to Sell Firearms at Retail, or a Handgun Eligibility Certificate unless they are federal marshals, parole officers, or peace officers
• For long guns: A State Pistol Permit, a Permit to Sell Firearms at Retail, a Handgun Eligibility Certificate, or a Long Gun Eligibility Certificate

Each of these credentials is itself issued only after a background check, meaning Connecticut effectively layers two background checks: one when the credential is issued, and a second at the point of sale through the authorization number process.

Private Sales and Transfers

HB 6667 (Public Act 23-53) amended Connecticut's long gun transfer law, CGS 29-37a, effective October 1, 2023. Subject to statutory exemptions, a person receiving a long gun must hold a valid permit to carry, a permit to sell firearms at retail, or a handgun or long gun eligibility certificate.^[4]

Private long gun transfers are subject to the transfer document and authorization requirements in CGS 29-37a(d), unless a statutory exemption applies.^[1]

• Transferor-obtained authorization. The transferor completes the transfer document and obtains a DESPP authorization number
• Transfer document copies. The transferor gives one copy of the transfer document to the transferee. The transferee must hold a valid permit or certificate unless a statutory exemption applies. The transferor retains one copy of the transfer document for at least five years. Within forty-eight hours, the transferor sends by first class mail or electronically transmits one copy to DESPP and one to the local permitting authority or, when applicable, the tribal police chief. If either party is a federally licensed firearms dealer, that dealer retains the transfer document for at least twenty years or until going out of business

Lie-and-Try Notification

Connecticut also maintains a "lie and try" policy. When DESPP finds a reason that prohibits a handgun transferee from possessing a pistol or revolver, or makes a long gun transferee ineligible to receive the long gun, it must notify the local permitting authority or, if the transferee has a bona fide permanent residence within the relevant tribe's jurisdiction, the tribal police chief.^[2]

Gun Show Sales

Firearm transfers at gun shows are subject to the same background check requirements as all other sales in Connecticut. There is no "gun show loophole" in the state. Sales subject to CGS 29-33 or CGS 29-37a require a DESPP authorization number, and buyers must hold a valid permit or certificate unless a statutory exception applies.^[1]

What This Means for Firearm Owners

Connecticut's background check and authorization requirements cover firearm transfers subject to CGS 29-33 and CGS 29-37a, with statutory exemptions. For transfers subject to CGS 29-33 or CGS 29-37a, the buyer must hold a valid credential unless a statutory exception applies, and the transferor must obtain the DESPP authorization number. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in felony charges under CGS 29-33 or CGS 29-37a.

See also: First-Time Gun Buyer Guide for Connecticut