What is an Iowa Gun Bill of Sale?

An Iowa gun bill of sale frees a seller from liability for a firearm. The buyer becomes responsible after providing payment and signing the form. Both parties complete the document after determining the intricacies of the deal, such as the sale price and transfer method. Each person must sign before the weapon changes hands. This step ensures that the buyer and seller follow through with the transfer as it binds them to the terms listed in the bill of sale.

How to Apply for a Permit to Carry Weapons

As of July 1, 2021, Iowa residents no longer need documentation to carry or purchase firearms. Nonetheless, gun owners can apply for a permit to expand their concealed carry freedoms. A license also eliminates the need for a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) when purchasing a weapon from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL).

In addition, individuals benefit from a permit as it requires education on gun laws and general use. Residents must also have a license to carry within one thousand (1000) feet of a public or private school (18 USC § 921(a)(25) and 18 USC § 922(q)(2)). Furthermore, certain states honor Iowa licenses, allowing firearm owners to carry within their borders.

Step 1 – Requirements

Per § 724.8, residents must meet state requirements to apply for a permit to carry weapons. The laws protect gun holders, citizens, and communities from gun violence or misuse. Therefore, county sheriffs who determine the applicant unfit can reject them.

An individual cannot apply for a permit to carry weapons if they:

• Are less than eighteen (18) years old (professional permit*);
• Are less than twenty-one (21) years old (nonprofessional permit);
• Have an addiction to drugs or alcohol;
• Have committed crimes or carried out actions deemed as concerning that cause law enforcement to believe they would unlawfully use the firearm;
• Cannot ship, transport, own, or receive a firearm per federal law;
• Have a record indicating a serious misdemeanor within the past three (3) years; and/or
• Committed a felony.

*The state only issues professional permits to residents who need them for their employment (e.g., a police officer, security guard, etc.).

The state also provides a carry eligibility quiz for residents to determine if they qualify.

Step 2 – Training Course

Individuals who qualify for a license must pass a training course before applying. Instructors associated with the National Rifle Association (NRA) and United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) must teach the education class. The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) does not accept training certifications from other organizations (§ 724.9).

Step 3 – Apply

County sheriff’s offices have special procedures to follow when applying for a permit. Applicants should consult with their nearest location for information on appointments, required documentation, and fees.

Step 4 – Wait

The office has thirty (30) days to notify individuals of their application status. Accepted applicants receive their permit by mail, which they can use starting the date they receive it. Denied residents can file an appeal after learning of the reason for their rejection.

Step 5 – Renew

Nonprofessional permits last for five (5) years, whereas professional permits last for one (1) year. License holders can renew up to thirty (30) days before the expiration date and thirty (30) days afterward. Renewals do not require the applicant to take another firearms safety course; however, the state recommends it to learn about new gun laws.

Residents cannot carry legally with an expired permit, even if they submitted their renewal paperwork and have not received a response. The sheriff’s county charges additional fees if the individual reapplies after the renewal window.