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
  • 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 63 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...

Become a Member

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.

Member Reviews

Hear from real USCCA® Members. Take a look at what responsibly armed Americans are saying about the country's fastest-growing organization for gun owners.

5,345
5 Star Reviews

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"My husband became disabled. Instead of him now being the family protector, I assume the role so that none of us fall down to victim status. Our society is not as safe as it once was."

– Michele M.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"I have a gun to protect my family. I have USCCA to protect my rights to do so. I pray I will never need either one, but in today's world am very thankful to have both. It just makes sense."

– David C.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"I have owned a gun for most of my life for protection of my family. I have always been concerned with what would happen if I ever had to use it. When I saw what USCCA had to offer, as a well rounded organization, I knew I had found full relief from the what if."

– Michael S.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"I appreciate having a pro-2nd amendment lawyer and an organization backing me in the case of a self-defense firearm incident. As a single mom, 5", & 118 lbs., my firearm is my second most important defense asset. My first is my brain. I will always renew with USCCA."

– S. P.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"Was arrested for shooting a man in self defense. Contacted USCCA who sent a highly rated attorney the next day. Had to spend three and a half months in jail due to the slow legal system but my attorney got me out and charges dropped as quickly as possible. Thanks USCCA!"

– Brian D.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"When I was arrested and charged for defending myself UNARMED against an innocent appearing attacker on the roadside and could have lost my 2nd amendment rights and my right to carry, USCCA was there and handled my legal defence 100%. Not one dime out of pocket and a clean record. I will ALWAYS recommend USCCA for any gun owner."

– Bob D.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"I carry to protect my family. Having a USCCA membership has taken away some of the stress of carrying a firearm and potentially having to use it. It's a huge responsibility to conceal carry, and to have USCCA on your side makes things much more comfortable. As long as you're following your states rules and regulations, and using your utmost discretion when carrying, you can count on them to have your back."

– Jacob K.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"While I live in a relatively safe state of Maine. The mass shooting in Lewiston last October had me uncomfortable in my own home. There was a shooter out there that was not located for a few days and I was in my home with my family, unable to protect them should someone try and gain access. The feeling of uselessness was profound. That was when I decided to take a self-defense course, arm myself, obtain a concealed carry permit and protect myself by joining USCCA. As the world changes I refuse to become an unwitting victim."

– David C.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"Our neighbor opened fire at my husband and he had to defend himself and shot back, he was detained as well as the neighbor. I called and everyone was so helpful. We had an attorney and bail bondsman within an hour. Our bond was refunded to us in less than 48 hours. This happened on a Sunday on a holiday weekend. I have never had to find an attorney nor a bail bondsman in my life. Who else could have done that for me in less than an hour? Our case is awaiting trial now, but I cannot say enough about the professionalism, courtesy, and efficiency of all who helped us."

– Tonna N.

4.9 / 5.0 TRUSTED BY OVER 860K MEMBERS

"I had such an amazing experience with USCCA that I had to share. Of course my first stop was their site. It was easy to use and gave me all of the info we needed to make a decision as a family. I did call them to ask about the spouse discount as a final step and was anticipating a run-of-the-mill phone call. Wrong! The person I spoke with was amazing. She was friendly and engaging and most of all, very helpful. She managed to make a seemingly 'dry' call enjoyable. She answered all of my questions, coached me on some things I hadn't considered, told me what to expect next and then followed up with a very nice email. When I was ready to complete our memberships, she called me right back and took care of it. And, with the same level of enthusiasm and friendliness as before. Kudos to USCCA and their employees for making such an important and personal decision a pleasant exchange."

– Christi H.
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