Carrying a handgun in New Jersey makes some people feel more protected than simply walking out of their homes. However, if you carry a gun without the proper permitting, you can face criminal charges. There is a process to legally carry a handgun within the state.
The New Jersey State Police details what it takes to legally carry. The state does require you to apply for an Initial Firearms Purchaser Identification Card. They obtain your fingerprints as part of the application process along with a fee. Every time you renew a Permit to Carry a Handgun, they fingerprint you again.
To obtain a Permit to Carry a Handgun, you must fill out an application through your local municipal police station. Not all guns are legal with many listed on the banned firearms list. This list includes semi-automatic shotguns, rifles and pistols with specifics for each type of gun.
If you plan to travel with your firearms, you need to follow certain requirements to legally do so. You can transport an unloaded gun held within a case in the trunk of your vehicle. The glove compartment is not a legal place to store your firearm. Motorcyclists can place the weapon in their saddlebags, lockable bags or backpack as long as it follows the above requirements.
The state does not allow you to purchase a firearm or sell one to someone without the identification card. You can inherit firearms as long as you can legally possess them. This information is intended only to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.
