Idaho Constitutional Carry Laws
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
The ongoing national debate on gun control remains contentious, with arguments centered around the Second Amendment’s right to bear arms versus concerns for public safety amidst widespread firearm use in criminal incidents.
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Recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions, such as New York Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022), emphasize individual rights to gun ownership, overturning state laws that impose strict criteria for concealed carry permits unless based on objective standards.
Federal firearms laws apply universally, prohibiting certain firearms like post-1986 machine guns except for specific entities. States like Idaho can impose additional restrictions, including permits for purchase and concealed carry licenses.
Idaho law prohibits certain weapons and imposes age restrictions, with no waiting period for firearm purchases. Assault weapons and ghost guns are not banned but must comply with federal guidelines.
Idaho restricts firearms in specific locations, including schools, courthouses, juvenile facilities, and certain public entertainment venues owned by universities.
Idaho enacted a permitless carry law in 2016, allowing law-abiding citizens not otherwise prohibited from firearm possession to carry concealed weapons statewide without a permit. Retired law enforcement officers also qualify under this law.
While permitless carry is permitted, Idaho offers concealed weapons licenses for reciprocity with other states. Applicants apply through their county sheriff’s office, guided by the Idaho State Police and Attorney General’s resources.
Idaho maintains state preemption, ensuring uniform firearm regulations across municipalities and counties without stricter local laws.
This overview highlights Idaho’s approach to firearm legislation, balancing individual rights with public safety concerns through comprehensive state and federal regulations.
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- Idaho Statutes 18–3302: Concealed Weapons
- Idaho Statutes 18–3316: Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
- Idaho Statutes 18–3302E: Possession of a Weapon by a Minor
- Idaho Statutes 18–3302F: Prohibition of Certain Weapons by a Minor
- Idaho Statutes 18–3302D: Possessing Weapon or Firearm on School Property
Under federal law, machine guns are generally illegal without ATF registration. Idaho law prohibits minors from possessing automatic weapons, sawed-off shotguns, sawed-off rifles, and handguns, with limited exceptions.
There is no waiting period to purchase or own a firearm in Idaho.
- Individuals with felony convictions unless rights restored under state law
- Minors under 18 years old without parental consent or accompaniment
- Those prohibited under federal law (18 U.S.C. Section 922)
No license is required to purchase a firearm in Idaho.
No, Idaho allows law-abiding citizens to carry concealed weapons without a permit.
Yes, open carry is permitted without a license in Idaho.
