Before You Buy: Permits and Certificates
Connecticut requires a permit or eligibility certificate before any firearm purchase. Unlike many states, you cannot walk into a gun store and buy a firearm with only a federal background check. The state operates its own point-of-contact system through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP).[1]
There are two paths to purchasing a firearm in Connecticut:
- State Pistol Permit -- allows you to both carry and purchase handguns and long guns (CGS 29-28).[2]
- Eligibility Certificate -- allows purchase only (no carry privileges). There are two types: a Handgun Eligibility Certificate (CGS 29-36f) and a Long Gun Eligibility Certificate (CGS 29-37p).[1]
Step 1: Complete a Firearms Safety Course
All applicants must complete an approved firearms safety course before applying for any permit or certificate. For handguns, the course must be at least equivalent to the NRA Basic Pistol Course. As of 2023, the course must include instruction on safe storage in the home and vehicle, lawful use of firearms, and lawful carrying in public.[3]
Step 2: Apply for a Permit or Eligibility Certificate
If you want to carry a handgun, apply for the State Pistol Permit through your local police department or resident state trooper. This is a two-step process: your local authority issues a temporary permit, and then you apply to DESPP for the permanent state permit within 60 days.[4]
If you only want to purchase (not carry), apply for the appropriate Eligibility Certificate directly through DESPP's Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU). The fee is $35 plus approximately $75 for fingerprinting and $12 for the background check.[1]
Step 3: The Authorization Number
Once you have your permit or certificate and find a firearm to purchase, the sale cannot be completed immediately. The dealer must contact DESPP's SLFU to obtain an authorization number for the transaction. DESPP conducts a NICS background check and either issues the number or bars the sale (CGS 29-33 for handguns, CGS 29-37a for long guns).[5]
You will need to complete a firearms purchase application form (DPS-67-C) and sign a receipt (DPS-3-C) listing your information, the firearm details, and the authorization number.[6]
Step 4: Know the Rules After Purchase
After purchasing your firearm, be aware of these key requirements:
- Safe storage: Under Ethan's Law (CGS 29-37i), all firearms must be securely locked in a container or on your person at all times.[7]
- Bulk purchase limit: You may not purchase more than three handguns in a 30-day period.[8]
- No open carry: Open carry is prohibited statewide as of October 1, 2023. You must carry concealed if you have a permit.[3]
- Trigger lock: All firearms sold in Connecticut must be accompanied by a trigger lock.[8]
Age Requirements
You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun or to obtain a State Pistol Permit or Handgun Eligibility Certificate. For long guns, the minimum age is generally 18, but as of 2023, you must be 21 to purchase a semiautomatic centerfire rifle that accepts detachable magazines with a capacity exceeding five rounds.[9]
Private Sales
Connecticut requires universal background checks for all firearm transfers, including private sales. Even in a private transaction, the buyer must hold a valid permit or eligibility certificate, and the authorization number process applies.[10]