Buying a Gun in Utah

Selling a firearm to a minor (under 18) who is not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian is a third degree felony. Transferring a handgun to a minor where that would cause the minor to violate the minor-possession law is a class B misdemeanor (class A for later offenses). A minor may possess a firearm only within exceptions: under 14 with parental permission and accompanied by a parent, guardian or responsible adult; 14 to 17 with parental permission; plus listed activities such as safety courses, ranges, competitions and licensed hunting. Possession of a handgun by a minor outside the exceptions is a third degree felony. Adults 18 and older may buy any firearm under state law.

A criminal history background check through the Bureau of Criminal Identification is required for sales by a licensed firearm dealer, and the dealer may not transfer until the bureau approves; holders of a Utah concealed firearm or provisional permit who present the permit are exempt from the check and its fee. Utah has no state law that requires a background check or permit to purchase for private (non-dealer) sales. The bureau offers a voluntary online process letting a private buyer or seller check whether the other party holds a valid Utah concealed carry permit, or whether the gun (by serial number) is reported stolen; government may not require its use. State law bars local governments from requiring a permit or license to purchase.

Utah has no state law that sets a waiting period for buying any firearm. The dealer may transfer once the bureau approves the background check, and the bureau must respond during the call or by return call or other electronic means 'without delay' (except electronic failure or other circumstances beyond its control).

Utah has no state law that requires serial numbers on homemade firearms or regulates unfinished frames, receivers or kits. On request, the Department of Public Safety may assign a distinguishing number or mark to a handgun 'whenever it is without a manufacturer's number'; stamping any other identifying number on a handgun is a class A misdemeanor, and altering or removing a handgun's maker name, model or number without the department's written permission is a class A misdemeanor (antique firearms excepted). Firearms made and sold in Utah under the state-made firearms law must be stamped 'Made in Utah' or 'Made in UT'.