How to Sell a Gun in Minnesota

State Laws for Private Gun Sales in Minnesota

Minnesota, like many other states, has specific regulations in place that govern the buying and selling of guns through private sales. It is important to understand these laws to ensure that you are in compliance and conducting a legal sale.

Minnesota State Gun Ownership Restrictions

In Minnesota, there are restrictions for certain individuals who are not allowed to possess guns. The list of individuals prohibited from possessing guns includes:

• Those under 18 years old
• Persons convicted of or adjudicated delinquent or convicted as an extended jurisdiction juvenile for committing a crime of violence
• Individuals who have been committed by a judicial determination that they are mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or mentally ill and dangerous to the public
• Those convicted of a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor violation of Chapter 152 or a similar law of another state
• Individuals convicted of certain offenses at the gross misdemeanor level
• Those subject to domestic violence restraining orders or harassment restraining orders.

Private Sale of a Gun in Minnesota

In Minnesota, any sale, gift, loan, assignment, or other delivery of a gun to a non-licensed person is considered a private sale. For the private sale of handguns between two non-licensed individuals, Minnesota law requires a valid permit to carry or a permit to purchase. A valid permit to carry a handgun in Minnesota is sufficient for a private sale, provided that the permit is valid at the time of the sale or transfer.

To obtain a Permit to Purchase, the prospective purchaser must apply in writing to the chief of police or the county sheriff and provide identifying information, including their full name, date of birth, and driver's license or state identification card number. The chief of police or county sheriff will conduct a background check on the prospective purchaser before approving or denying the application. If the application is approved, the Permit to Purchase is valid for one year and can be used to purchase multiple handguns.

Class III items under the National Firearms Act (NFA), including machine guns, short-barreled rifles and shotguns, and suppressors, necessitate a rigorous approval process for private sales. This process involves the completion of ATF Form 4, a $200 transfer tax, and a waiting period that may extend over several months, as mandated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

In terms of Federal law, private firearms sales conducted within the same state, between non-licensed individuals, are not obligated to adhere to federal background check requirements. This is colloquially known as the "gun show loophole" or "private sale loophole." For any interstate firearms sales, these transactions must involve a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), who is required to execute a background check.

Minnesota law, as of 2021, necessitates a permit for the purchase of a handgun or semi-automatic military-style assault weapon from a private party. The purchaser is obligated to display this permit to the seller. However, the law does not impose the requirement for private sellers to administer background checks.

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Federal Laws

It is crucial for individuals seeking to purchase or sell guns in Minnesota to have a comprehensive understanding of both federal and state laws governing gun sales. Federal law requires licensed dealers to conduct background checks on individuals before selling firearms to them, whether in-store or online. However, private sales between non-licensed individuals are not subject to federal background check requirements, though a permit to carry or a permit to purchase is mandatory for handgun transactions in Minnesota. The Permit to Purchase involves a background check conducted by the local chief of police or county sheriff. By being aware of the specific legal requirements for gun sales in Minnesota, individuals can ensure that they are following the law and operating within the boundaries set by both federal and state authorities.

Who Can't Buy a Gun in Minnesota?

Federal law prohibits these people from buying a gun in Minnesota: 

• Conviction (felony or misdemeanor) where the crime has a maximum imprisonment term exceeding 1 year
• Warrants
• Felony pre-trial release
• Misdemeanors of domestic violence restraining/stalking/protection order mental health adjudication or commitment
• Unlawful use or addiction to a controlled substance
• Dishonorable discharge from the armed forces
• Renounced U.S. citizenship
• Being an illegal alien
• Individuals are subject to a court order that restrains them from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or child of an intimate partner.

Buying a Gun from a Licensed Firearms Dealer in Minnesota

Anyone buying a gun in Minnesota from a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) must complete a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF) form 4473. Purchasers must undergo a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check, which will be performed by the FFL. Section 7416.9940 requires a Minnesota Permit to Acquire Handguns from FFLs, which must be presented by the permittee with other qualifying Minnesota Identification before the sale of the pistol may be completed.

Minnesota law requires a seven-day waiting period for the purchase of a handgun or semiautomatic military-style assault weapon from a federally licensed dealer unless the waiting period is waived by the police chief or sheriff.

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Recommendations for Private Gun Sales in Minnesota

When it comes to private sales of guns in Minnesota, there are specific laws and guidelines that must be followed to ensure a legal and smooth transaction. It is recommended that private sellers and buyers follow certain guidelines and recommendations.

Private Sales of Handguns and Long Guns

When it comes to private sales of handguns and long guns in Minnesota, the following facts and recommendations should be considered:

• Private sales of long guns in Minnesota do not require a permit to purchase or a background check
• Private sellers are not required to verify the buyer's eligibility to possess a gun before selling the gun in Minnesota
• Handgun transfers between individuals who both have a valid Minnesota permit to carry a handgun do not require a permit to purchase or a background check
• Private sales of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons do require the buyer to have a permit to purchase or a valid permit to carry.

Tips for Private Sellers and Buyers

In a private gun sale in Minnesota, it is crucial to follow certain guidelines to ensure a smooth, legal, and stress-free transaction. Key recommendations include drafting and signing a Bill of Sale, verifying the buyer's eligibility, adhering to age requirements, and consulting an attorney for legal advice if needed. Following these tips can help both sellers and buyers navigate the process and comply with Minnesota state and federal laws.

Bill of Sale: Draft and sign a Bill of Sale, which should include the make, model, caliber, and serial number of the gun, and the gun buyer's and seller's names, addresses, and driver's license numbers. Both parties should keep a copy for their records.

Buyer's Eligibility Verification: Although not required by law, it is recommended that the seller verify the buyer's eligibility to possess a firearm by requesting proof of a valid Minnesota permit to carry or a transfer permit. This helps ensure that the gun is being transferred to a legally eligible individual.

Age Requirements: Ensure that the buyer meets the minimum age requirements for purchasing a gun in Minnesota: 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns) and 21 years old for handguns.

Meeting in a Safe, Public Location: Arrange to meet in a safe, public location for the exchange. Some local police departments offer "safe exchange zones" for this purpose.

Payment Method: Agree on a payment method that is secure and traceable, such as a cashier's check, money order, or electronic transfer. Avoid using cash for large transactions.

Communication: Maintain clear and open communication between both parties throughout the process to avoid misunderstandings.

Record-Keeping: Keep thorough records of the transaction, including copies of permits, identification, and the Bill of Sale.

Legal Advice: If you are unsure about any aspect of the transaction or have concerns about the legality of the sale, consult an attorney for legal advice.

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Utilizing Cash for Arms to Sell Your Guns in Minnesota

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