Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale Form
A Connecticut firearm bill of sale form proves that a licensed dealer or private seller sold a gun to a buyer. The state provides the document to residents and requires that they use it during the transfer or sale. The transferor and transferee must enter their full name, date of birth, address, and certification (i.e., pistol permit, eligibility certificate, police identification, or federal firearms license). Each person confirms the deal by signing in the appropriate box.
|
What is a Connecticut Gun Bill of Sale?
A Connecticut gun bill of sale transcribes an agreement between the transferor and transferee. Both parties must safely store the bill of sale with other relevant gun-related forms. Maintaining a clean and organized record allows the buyer and seller to review the documents in the future (if needed).
Residents must complete additional documentation to inform the state and federal governments of the purchase. The Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU) maintains a record of individuals who own a gun or pistol permit. Sales can only occur if the buyer passes the background check and the department approves. If gun holders do not comply, law enforcement can ticket or arrest the buyer and seller (§ 52-571f). To document the transaction, all persons involved must also fill out a federal firearms transaction record (ATF Form 4473).
How to Apply for a Connecticut State Pistol Permit
Connecticut does not allow residents to purchase a firearm without a valid permit or eligibility certification. Before selling guns, licensed dealers and private sellers must contact the SLFU to receive an authorization number. The merchant must enter the number on the application to purchase a firearm (Form DPS-67-C) and the sale or transfer document (Form DPS-3-C). Both parties must keep a copy of both forms for their permanent records.
Step 1 – Pass Initial Requirements
Residents must have the ability to possess a firearm in Connecticut before applying for a pistol permit. The state provides a set of criteria that residents must meet to qualify. The individual must:
- Be twenty-one (21) years of age or older;
- Be psychologically stable;
- Not be a felon or have a criminal record; and
- Abide by all state gun laws (§ 53a-217c).
Step 2 – Complete Handgun Safety Course
The applicant must take a handgun safety course before applying for a permit. They must at least pass a “Basic Pistol Course,” provided by the National Rifle Association (NRA). Local Connecticut businesses also offer approved classes to residents.
Step 3 – Submit Paperwork
After receiving a handgun safety course certificate, the resident must provide documentation to one (1) of the following: 1) the local police, 2) a resident state trooper, 3) or first select person.
The individual must include the completed application, the firearms safety and use certificate, and a government-issued form proving citizenship. In addition, they must pay a $70 fee for processing.
Bring the Following:
|
Step 4 – Fingerprints + Background Check
Per Connecticut law, the applicant must visit a law enforcement agency and provide their fingerprints. The state uses this data to run criminal and mental health background checks. Individuals must provide two (2) separate payments of $75 and $13.25 to the office.
Step 5 – Temporary Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers
If the applicant passes the background check, the state issues a Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers (Form DPS-11-C), which lasts for sixty (60) days.
Step 6 – Visit a DESPP Office
Before the sixty (60) day temporary permit expires, the individual must locate a nearby Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) office. They must walk in or make an appointment to hand in the remaining information for obtaining a pistol permit.
The state requires the applicant to submit the completed documents (i.e., Form DPS-11-C and Form DPS-46-C). In addition, they must provide state and federal identification and pay a $70 charge. If the DESPP approves the application, they take a photograph of the individual for the permit.
Step 7 – Renew
Connecticut pistol permits last for five (5) years. The state sends license holders renewal notices with instructions in the mail ninety (90) days before expiration. Residents can renew up to ninety (90) days prior to the date and ninety (90) days after. If they do not meet the deadline, they have to reapply as a new applicant.
The permit holder must send or hand in the paperwork to the SLFU Headquarters or satellite office. Alternatively, they can mail the required documents and payment. In both situations, they must provide the following:
- The renewal notice;
- Corrected Form DPS-129-C*;
- A fee of $70;
- Proof of United States citizenship; and
- Photograph (for mail applicants only).
*The applicant only needs to provide Form DPS-129-C if they make corrections to the information therein. They do not need to notarize if they reapply in person. However, the state requires notarization for mail-in applications.