It’s estimated that 32% of Americans own a firearm. It doesn’t matter if you want a gun for self-defense or recreation, you have a right to own one. That being said, there are rules and procedures you need to follow to be a responsible gun owner.

That starts with gun registration. It doesn’t matter if you’re buying a used gun or a new one, you need to register it in certain states. But what states require you to register your weapon? And how do you go about the registration process?

In this guide, we’ll be answering these questions so that you can begin your gun ownership journey in a way that’s completely legal.

Different States Have Different Gun Registration Laws

It’s important to check the local laws in the state where you reside. That’s because different states have different laws in place surrounding gun registration.

Some states like South Dakota, Vermont, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, and Pennsylvania don’t require you to register your guns. Other states like California or Connecticut only require you to register assault weapons or large-capacity magazine weapons.

In this guide, we’ll be exploring the gun registry laws in New York state. If you don’t live in New York State, you should consult a different resource to find gun registration details.

New York State Requires You to Register Both Handguns and Assault Weapons

New York state is one of the few states that requires you to register any handguns you own, as well as assault weapons. Like most states, New York considered an assault weapon to be a semi-automatic firearm that comes with a detachable clip.

When you get your license you will need to identify each handgun and assault weapon you own.

This type of registration will need to include things like the caliber, serial number, make, manufacturer’s name, and model. To register a weapon you will first need to make sure that you have the proper licenses for owning a gun.

Eligibility Requirements for Gun and License Registration

To get a license and register your guns, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements. For starters, you need to be at least twenty-one years old and a resident of New York. You’re also not allowed to have any past serious convictions or felonies.

The state requires that you have good moral character, which is determined through character references. Lastly, you need to have a reason for getting the firearm that’s legally recognized by the state.

How to Get a License and Register a Gun in New York

Most of the time you will need to go into a location in person to apply for a gun license. The location will depend on the county where you live (or are employed).

If you live in upstate New York, you can apply through the county court. This can be done through either the sheriff, county clerk or the office of the county clerk.

If you live in the towns east of Suffolk county, you will need to apply with the sheriff. Those residing in NYC, Suffolk County, and Nassau County will need to apply for registration with the police commissioner.

Make sure you bring all the relevant information you’ll need for the license. This will include things like your full name, birthday, address, physical description, social security number, mental health history, character references, and a valid form of ID.

If you’re applying for a concealed carry license, you’ll also need to provide past and present social media accounts and a list of everyone living in your household.

If you’re applying for a handgun license, it will include registrations for the pistols you own. However, you will need to register assault weapons separately through this resource for gun safety. 

Can You Transfer a Gun From Out of State?

Yes, you can transfer a gun from out of state. The easiest way to do it is to send your long gun or pistol to S&S Sales. Once we receive the gun we’ll send you a receipt.

You’ll then take this to the agency that provides permits where you live. From there, you can get your permit modified to include the firearm.

Then, we’ll run a background check on you before returning the firearm to your possession. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about transferring an out-of-state gun through S&S Sales.

Can You Maintain Your Privacy During the Registration Process?

New York does protect the privacy of people during the registration process. However, it’s important to note that you need to request it.

When getting your license, you need to ask for the Request for Public Records Exemption form. Fill out the form, then submit it along with your application.

What’s the Best Place for Buying a Used Gun

When you’re buying a gun in New York, the first thing you should look for is reliable customer service from the gun shop. This is especially true if it’s your first time buying a gun.

The gun-buying process can be overwhelming. Not only do you need to deal with applications, permits, and registrations, but there are thousands of firearms to choose from.

A good gun shop employee can walk you through what you need to do. They’ll also help you find the right firearm for your specific needs. Selection is also important when finding a used seller.

Unless you have a specific type of firearm you want, you should select a place that offers a wide selection of guns to choose from.

Interested in Firearms? Visit S&S Sales

We hope this guide helped you learn how to register a gun in your name. When buying a used gun, it’s almost always better to go to small, local stores instead of massive corporations.

For starters, you get a level of personalized service that can help you find the perfect gun legally. And if you shop at places like S&S Sales, it also means you get competitive prices that are just as good as the big box stores.

However, don’t take our word for it. Start shopping through our collection of over 30,000 firearms to learn the difference you get when working with a business like S&S Sales.