RHODE ISLAND GUN LAWS
QUICK FACTS
Permit Information
Rhode Island gun laws are restrictive, making it difficult to obtain permits in this state. Permits can be issued by the local authorities or the Attorney General. The wording of the law makes the local authorities “Shall Issue” and the Attorney General “May Issue”. This will need to be cleared up by the courts. Applicants are required to explain why they need a firearm and how it will remedy their problem. They must be 21 years or older and have three typed and notarized references. Applications are filed with the local Police Chief.
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Permits/Licenses
Rhode Island is a “May Issue” & “Shall Issue” state.
Non-Resident permits available if you own a residence or business in Rhode Island.
The permit is valid for 4 years.
- Must be at least 21 years old
- The applicant must have a residence or place of business within the town the application is submitted in.
- Or have a residence within the United States and permit/license to carry a handgun concealed upon his or her person issued by the authorities of any other state or subdivision of the United States.
- The applicant has a good reason to fear an injury to his or her person or property.
- The applicant has any other proper reason to be licensed.
- The applicant shall be a suitable person to be so licensed.
- A person prohibited from having a firearm by any state or Federal Law, or court order is not eligible to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon.
- Federal Law – Prohibits the following persons
Off Limit Areas
Where You Can Carry
- Road side rest areas
- Vehicle
- All areas of the state – except those listed below
Where You Cannot Carry
- You cannot carry a firearm if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by Federal Law.
Details on Rhode Island Gun Laws
Get in Touch
Providence Police Department
Hours
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Contact
Address 325 Washington St.
City Providence, RI 02903
Phone (401) 272-3121
Comments
I have previous credit fraud and larceny charges that have both been expunged, am I good to go?
Both misdemeanor might I add
I have a domestic violence charge (no assault) from 20yrs ago. No charges at all the past 15yrs. All misdemeanors. Am I allowed to purchase a gun?
NO but consult a lawyer! Not until your Firearm and rights are FULLY restored by the convicting state or entity. You are treated similar to a convicted felon with firearms..
Can you buy a firearm in RI without a permit? I’m sure there is a background check… but can I just buy one for my home?
Yes you can buy one in RI. You must first pass the blue card test.
Do I need a copy of my NRA certificate if I have an active permit from another state (Connecticut)? I have an active permit, but do not have a copy of my NRA certificate any longer. I have had a permit in CT for over 30 years.
Hi,
I’m a newbie.
Opinions please, any advantage or disadvantage for going through the the states AG office verses going through the local PD?
The AG “May” issue a permit, Local “shall” issue a permit
I live in RI (own my home) but work in CT. I am originally from CT. So I have a CT issued license can I still get a gun permit in RI with a different state license.
does the blue card expire?
No. The Blue card from the DEM never expires