Firearm law reference
District of Columbia firearm laws
A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in District of Columbia — private-sale background checks, permits to purchase, restricted-firearm and magazine rules, handgun roster, waiting periods and ammunition. Federal law applies everywhere on top of these state rules.
At a glance
Reviewed 2026-06-26
What to watch for
- Important: District of Columbia requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (background check).
- Caution: Interstate transfers must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) in the buyer's state for the background check; a private buyer can't take a handgun across state lines.
- Caution: District of Columbia restricts large-capacity magazines. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
- Important: District of Columbia restricts "assault weapons" — certain semi-automatic firearms and features may be prohibited.
- Note: District of Columbia has a waiting period (about 10 days) before a firearm can be received.
- Note: Never transfer to a prohibited person or complete a straw purchase (buying for someone else) — both are federal crimes.
General information, not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and city or county ordinances may add requirements this summary doesn't capture. Verify the current law with the District of Columbia Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.
Frequently asked
Does District of Columbia require a background check for private firearm sales?
Yes. District of Columbia requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (FFL), who runs the background check.
Do you need a permit or license to buy a firearm in District of Columbia?
This summary doesn't list a state permit or license requirement to buy a firearm in District of Columbia. A dealer sale still requires the federal background check, and local rules can add requirements — verify current law.
Does District of Columbia restrict "assault weapons"?
Yes. District of Columbia restricts certain semi-automatic firearms and features classified as "assault weapons." Confirm a specific model and configuration is permitted before buying or selling.
Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in District of Columbia?
Yes. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in District of Columbia?
Yes — about 10 days. The federal background check must also clear before transfer.
Are there rules for buying ammunition in District of Columbia?
Yes. The District of Columbia only allows people with a registered firearm to possess ammunition.
Buying or selling in District of Columbia?
Rangium shows these state-specific notes right on every listing, and Vanta can answer compliance questions against your own inventory. Rangium is a neutral listings venue — it never processes payment or ships firearms.