A firearm bill of sale is necessary to complete a private sale for a gun in Georgia.
This is used to ensure a buyer is a person who may legally purchase a firearm and to record the fact that ownership of the weapon has transferred from the seller to the new owner.
It’s essential to note that certain individuals are prohibited by law from purchasing a firearm. Therefore, it’s critical to understand to who you are allowed to sell a gun.
Georgia's law (§16-11-131(b.1)) states that it is prohibited for the following individuals to purchase a firearm in Georgia:
- Individuals convicted of a forcible felony
- Anyone on probation as a first offender for a forcible felony
Buyers who fit either of these criteria may face a punishment of up to 5 years in prison.
Anyone who does not fit these criteria and meets the legal requirements such as minimum age may purchase a firearm in the state.
How to Register a Firearm in Georgia
Georgia does not have any specific laws on registering firearms. However, it is necessary to sign a firearm bill of sale in front of a notary public, to validate it.
The new owner must also hold a Weapons Carry License in order to carry a concealed firearm in the state.
Apply for Weapon Carry License in Georgia
To obtain a Weapons Carry License in Georgia you will need to apply for one. To submit a request you must be at least 21 years old or 18 if you are on active duty in the military or have been discharged honorably.
You must also be a United States citizen with no prior disqualifying legal convictions, such as a crime related to domestic violence or a felony.
If you are eligible to apply you will need to complete the following steps:
- Go to local probate court: Bring your ID, proof of Georgia State residency, and U.S. citizenship or INS number to your local probate court.
- Fill out the application: Receive an application from the probate court clerk then complete and submit it.
- Pay fee: Pay the filing fee
- Provide fingerprints: Process your fingerprints within 5 days of applying or provide them directly to the clerk.
- Complete a background check: Successfully pass a background check
At this point you will then need to wait for the approval of your license which should take around 30 days to process.