Bill > H366

This bill reenacts and expands North Carolina's existing pistol purchase permit law to also require permits for purchasing long guns (rifles and shotguns). Under the new law, individuals must obtain a permit from their county sheriff before purchasing either a pistol or a long gun. The permit must be issued after the sheriff conducts a criminal background check and determines the applicant has good moral character. The permit will be valid for five years and will be a standardized form created by the State Bureau of Investigation with security features to prevent counterfeiting. People with felony convictions may still obtain a permit if they have been pardoned or have had their firearms rights restored, as long as the purchase does not violate the conditions of their pardon or rights restoration. The bill specifically defines a "long gun" as a shotgun or rifle that is not considered an antique firearm. The law will go into effect on December 1, 2025, and will apply to all pistol and long gun sales, transfers, or purchases on or after that date. Violations of the permit requirements will be considered a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H366