What is a North Dakota Gun Bill of Sale?

A North Dakota firearm bill of sale form is vital when legally reassigning gun ownership. It represents a crucial element in any legal gun transaction, serving as a record for both parties. Maintaining this document allows individuals to demonstrate responsible ownership and facilitate smooth future dealings. It also promotes successful gun transactions and enhances public safety.

How to Apply for a Concealed Carry License

North Dakota does not require a firearm permit, gun registration, or background checks when purchasing from a private seller. However, residents must have a concealed carry license to open and concealed carry their weapon(s) in the state.

To obtain a license legally, individuals must follow all requirements. These steps include meeting the qualifications, passing a firearms training course, and meeting with the local office to apply for the permit.

The state offers two (2) types of permits: a Class 1 license and a Class 2 license. Individuals with a Class 1 license have reciprocity in more states than those with a Class 2 license. For this reason, the person applying for the Class 1 license must undergo additional testing.

Step 1 – Qualifiers

To apply for a concealed carry permit in North Dakota, an applicant must meet several qualifications.

They must:

• Be at least 18 years old for a Class 2 permit or 21 for a Class 1 permit;
• Be a resident of North Dakota for at least one year;
• Possess a valid North Dakota driver’s license or ID card;
• Complete a state-approved firearms training course;
• Not have restrictions from possessing a firearm under state or federal law; and
• Demonstrate familiarity with weapons and pass a background investigation.

Step 2 – Firearms Training

To meet the firearms training certification requirements for a concealed carry license in North Dakota, applicants must complete a state-approved training course. The course must cover specific topics, including basic knowledge of firearms, firearm safety, proper handling and storage, and North Dakota laws related to concealed carry and the use of deadly force.

In addition to classroom instruction, the course should include a live-fire proficiency test to demonstrate the applicant’s ability to handle and fire a handgun safely. Upon completion, the applicant receives a certificate as proof of training, which they must submit along with the concealed carry license application.

Step 3 – Submit the Application

Apply for a concealed carry license online by following these steps:

1. Obtain a recent passport-style color photograph (2 inches by 2 inches) taken within thirty (30) days.
2. Visit the North Dakota Attorney General’s website and navigate to the online application system for concealed weapons licenses.
3. Create an account or log in if an account already exists.
4. Fill out the online application form, providing all the required information, including personal details, training course information, and background questions.
5. Upload a digital copy of the firearms training course certificate, a copy of their North Dakota driver’s license or ID card, and a passport-style photograph.
6. Pay the application fee online using a credit or debit card. The cost for a Class 1 license is $60, while the price for a Class 2 license is $45.
7. Submit the application.

North Dakota also allows residents to apply for a license by mail. In this case, the individual should obtain a passport-style photograph and download the application from the North Dakota Attorney General’s website or pick it up from a local law enforcement agency.

Next, they must create a check or money order for the application fee. The fee for a Class 1 license is $60, while the cost for a Class 2 license is $45. Then, they must submit the completed application, required documents, and fee by mail to the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).

Step 4 – Processing

Upon receiving the application, the BCI will conduct a background investigation. If approved, they will issue and mail the concealed carry license to the address on file. The processing time may vary but typically takes around sixty (60) days.

If an individual’s North Dakota concealed carry permit application is denied, they will receive a written notification from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) stating the reason(s) for the denial. Common reasons for rejection include failure to meet eligibility requirements, incomplete application, or a disqualifying criminal record.

Applicants who believe the BCI denied their application in error or that the information used for denial is incorrect can appeal the decision. To do so, they must submit a written request for a hearing to the BCI within thirty (30) days of receiving the denial notification. An administrative law judge will conduct the hearing, reviewing the facts and determining whether the denial should be upheld or overturned.

To increase the chances of a successful appeal, the applicant may want to consult with an attorney experienced in firearms law to help navigate the process and present their case effectively.

Step 5 – Renewal

Concealed carry licenses in North Dakota are valid for five (5) years. Before the permit expires, the BCI sends a renewal notice, allowing residents to renew their licenses up to 180 days before expiration. If residents fail to renew in time, they must apply as new applicants.

License holders can choose to reapply either by mail or online. However, those who opt for online renewal must print and mail a physical copy of the completed form.

For Class 1 license holders, retesting is mandatory during the renewal process. Class 2 license holders are exempt from this requirement. Class 1 license holders may downgrade to a Class 2 license to avoid retesting. On the other hand, individuals who want to upgrade from a Class 2 to a Class 1 license must complete the necessary testing.