U.S. Federal Gun Laws and Defensive Firearms Regulations

The right to own a gun comes with the responsibility to know and abide by all state and federal gun laws. Arm yourself with knowledge compiled by the USCCA to help you understand U.S. federal gun laws, self-defense laws and regulations that impact all responsibly armed Americans.

Explore the Laws

Federal Defensive Firearms Laws

  • Motor cycle on highway during sunset

    Federal Firearms Transportation Laws

    Looking for information on how to legally transport a firearm from state to state? Wondering about the "Peaceable Journey Law?"

    Read the Transportation Laws
  • U.S. Post Office building

    Federally Banned Locations for Carrying Firearms

    Do you know if you can legally carry your concealed handgun while hiking in a national forest? What about the parking lot at your local U.S. Post Office?

    Discover the Banned Locations
  • RV and lawn chairs in the woods next to river

    National Parks, Wildlife Refuges, Forests & Airports

    Planning a visit to one of the 58 beautiful national parks in the United States? Is there any difference between concealed carrying in the park and in a building within the park? What about national forests or airports?

    Explore Park & Airport Rules
  • Laptop computer screen showing Form 4473

    Federal Private Firearms Transfer Laws

    Considering purchasing a firearm from a private seller or individual? From a person in another state? Have you inherited a firearm?

    Understand the Transfer Laws
  • marijuana buds on tabletop

    Federally Prohibited Persons (Including Marijuana Users)

    Interested in learning more about the types of things that prevent individuals from qualifying to obtain a concealed carry permit? Can a person have a medical marijuana card and a concealed carry permit?

    Find Out Who's Prohibited
  • AR-15 on wooden box

    Federal Prohibitions on Certain Types of Firearms

    Are any types of firearms banned in the U.S.? What about firearms that are not detectable by metal detectors?

    Check the Prohibited Firearm Types
  • Hollow point ammunition

    Federal Ammunition Laws

    Are any types of ammunition banned in the U.S.? Is there a minimum age for individuals to purchase ammunition?

    Get the Ammunition Facts
  • Law enforcement officer in crowd

    Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA)

    Have you heard that retired law enforcement officers can legally carry a concealed handgun in every state without needing any state concealed carry or CCW permits? Are there limitations or requirements that need to be met?

    Learn About LEOSA
  • women at a gun shop looking at handguns

    Federal Minimum Age to Purchase and Possess Handguns

    Want to know how old you need to be in order to buy a handgun? Can a firearms dealer sell a handgun to an 18-year-old?

    Know the Age Requirements

Find Information on Federal Firearms Laws and Gun Legislation

To learn more about federal and state gun laws, and to stay up to date on any changes to legislation, subscribe to our free emails.

True Story From a USCCA Member

Why You Need a Legal Defense Strategy Before You’re Involved In an Incident

A USCCA Member stumbled upon 3 men breaking into his truck and, feeling his life was in danger, fired his gun to protect himself. Ultimately he wasn’t arrested, however Attorney Lieberman highlights the fine line this member walked (which could have cost himself a conviction) — and why having a USCCA Membership just might keep you out of jail!

Your USCCA Membership Will Help You Stay Safe & Informed...

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The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community, and does not constitute legal advice. We make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer for a specific case.