If you’re living in New Jersey and considering purchasing a rifle, you’ll need to know the requirements and process to do so. While rifle ownership is legal in the Garden State, it’s not a simple walk-in purchase. There are stringent New Jersey gun ownership requirements you need to meet.
Knowing exactly how to buy a rifle in NJ will make the process easier. Whether you’ve never even been to a rifle range or you’ve owned firearms in another state, you’ll find what you need to know in this NJ rifle purchase guide.
What Are New Jersey’s Gun Laws?
NJ firearm regulations for pistols are some of the toughest in the country. Fortunately, New Jersey rifle laws are not quite as restrictive. Still, the state regulates who may own them, how purchases are handled, and even how firearms are stored.
NJ firearm storage laws are just as important to know, as gun owners can be held liable for failing to properly store their weapons.
NJSP is the best place to find information about the NJ gun application process. You should review NJ gun safety requirements, too. The laws are continually changing.
The basic NJ firearm regulations require the following:
- Correct identification/permit
- Being at least 18 years of age
- Background checks
- Safe storage requirements
If you meet the legal age to own a rifle in NJ and the other minimum requirements, you can apply for your firearm purchaser identification card. The overall purchase process for rifles is relatively simple, if you meet firearm eligibility in New Jersey.
Own Your Rifle in Six Easy Steps in New Jersey
At first glance, NJ gun registration and purchase can sound like a daunting task. The truth is that it’s relatively simple with the right guidance. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of obtaining NJ firearm permits for rifles, which will allow you to lawfully purchase a long gun.
Step 1: Obtain a Firearm Purchaser Identification Card (FPIC)
Before you purchase any firearm in New Jersey, you need to apply for and receive a firearms purchaser identification card. Without it, you cannot legally buy a rifle or shotgun.
What Is an FPIC?
An FPIC, also known as the FID card, is the state-issued card under NJ law that allows you to purchase rifles, shotguns, and other long guns. You only need one FPIC to lawfully purchase multiple long guns. FPICs issued after 2021 are good for 10 years.
Once you are issued an FPIC, you’ll typically receive notification of approval electronically via the Firearms Application & Registration System (FARS). You may print or save the card.
Eligibility Criteria To Obtain an FPIC
To qualify for a firearm purchaser identification card, you must:
- Be a New Jersey resident (or dual-resident) and have proof of residency. (Non-resident FPIC is also an option)
- Be at least 18 years old for rifles/shotguns.
- Not be prohibited under state or federal law.
- Provide references as required, as well as past address history.
- Consent to fingerprinting.
- Comply with any local police department requirements.
Meeting these criteria does not guarantee immediate approval. The approval process can take up to 30 days. Keep in mind that local police departments may impose additional requirements. For example, you may be required to sign an affidavit agreeing to safely store the firearm.
How To Apply for an FPIC
The New Jersey state website includes links to the FARS portal. Go to the portal to start your application.
Enter the correct originating agency identifier (ORI) number for your municipal police department or NJSP station if you fall under state police jurisdiction. Using the wrong ORI will cancel your application, and you may have to reapply. You’ll also have to pay the fee again.
Provide all required personal information, including two non-relative references (preferably non-relative to you), previous addresses or employment as required, and proof of residency. You’ll also need to submit your driver’s license or state ID.
If it’s your first time applying, you’ll need to be fingerprinted through IdentoGO. Submit the application online and wait for an email notifying you that your card has been approved. If your application is denied, you will receive an explanation and may be able to contest the decision.
Application Fees for an FPIC in NJ
According to Newark Public Safety, the standard fee to apply for an FPIC is $50. However, you will also need to pay for fingerprinting and may be charged for credit card processing costs as well. Handgun purchase permits also have separate fees.
Step 2: Complete Background Checks
While the state conducts a thorough background check as part of your FPIC application process, you’ll have to complete a second background check each time you buy a firearm. This is done at the point of sale.
Gun stores will conduct a federally mandated National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The FARS system is used to verify your eligibility to possess firearms in New Jersey.
The point-of-sale check can be completed in a few days, provided that you already have your FPIC. If you are applying for your FPIC for the first time, expect the entire process to take at least 30 days.
Step 3: Receive Your Electronic Permit
Once your application for an FPIC is approved, you’ll receive confirmation via email. The card you receive will be electronic, in a PDF form. Make sure you download it, and save it on your phone. You can also print it out and laminate it or print it on a PVC or metal card.
For New Jersey’s FARS, you have to create an account and log in to access your permits. Your electronic permit is valid for 90 days and may be renewed once for an additional 90-day period. It can only be used with a licensed NJ firearms dealer, not for private sales or out-of-state purchases.
Step 4: Complete Firearm Safety Training (Optional/Recommended)
New Jersey does not require safety training to purchase a rifle. However, you should consider taking a course, especially if you don’t have any formal firearms training. Hands-on training courses teach basic firearms skills before making your purchase.
While training is not mandatory to own a rifle, it is required to apply for a concealed pistol permit. The Concealed Carry Assessment and Range Evaluation (CCARE) must be completed at an approved facility and with the oversight of a certified instructor.
Step 5: Purchase Your Rifle From a Licensed Dealer in NJ
Once you’re at the point of buying your rifle, the steps to complete the process include:
- Selecting a licensed firearms dealer in New Jersey.
- Presenting your FPIC and a valid drivers license to the gun store.
- Completing the required paperwork so the dealer can run a NICS check.
- Complying with NJ’s regulations on delivery and storage.
- Transporting your rifle from the store in compliance with NJ law.
- Make sure you keep a record of the Certificate of Eligibility, which is the proof that you acquired the long firearm legally.
There is no mandatory waiting period to purchase a rifle. If you have an FPIC, you can take home your rifle as soon as the gun store completes your background check. This may be completed same-day, or you may have to return the following business day.
Step 6: Maintain Compliance After Purchase
Buying a rifle in New Jersey is just the beginning of your journey as a gun owner. Here’s what you need to do next:
- Make sure your rifle is safely stored so that no one inadvertently or unlawfully gains access to it.
- Keep your FPIC card current.
- Transport your rifle unloaded and in a locked case.
- If your rifle has “assault firearm” characteristics, pay close attention to the state’s changing gun laws.
New Jersey already has some of the most restrictive firearms laws in the country. Legislators sometimes push to make them even tighter.
Optional: Concealed Carry Permit (CCP)
Many gun owners in New Jersey eventually consider obtaining a concealed carry permit so they can lawfully carry a handgun for personal defense.
To obtain your concealed carry permit, you must complete CCARE, which is a state-mandated training course. You’ll also have to apply for the pistol permit via the FARS system and submit to an enhanced background check.
However, if you just want to purchase a rifle for sport, hunting, or home defense, you do not need a concealed carry class or permit to do so.
Common Questions About Owning a Rifle in NJ
A lot goes into the rifle purchasing process in New Jersey. Here are a few more questions you may encounter.
Can Non-Residents Buy a Rifle in NJ?
Yes, if you possess a valid non-resident FPIC (FID Card). Make sure the long firearm you are purchasing meets your state of residence laws and regulations, including but not limited to magazine capacity.
What Is the Minimum Age To Purchase a Rifle?
You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for your FPIC and purchase a rifle or shotgun. If you want to purchase a pistol, you’ll need to obtain a separate permit and be at least 21 years of age. The pistol permitting process is similar to the FPIC application. However, the concealed carry permit process is extremely rigorous.
How Long Does the FPIC Application Take?
Completing the application online should take about 15 to 20 minutes if you have all of your documents ready to go. However, completing fingerprints can drag out the process, especially if you have to wait a few days to a few weeks for your appointment.
Once you’ve submitted everything, state law requires that FPICs be issued within 30 days for eligible residents. However, delays can still occur.
Can You Buy Rifles Online in NJ?
Yes, you can. However, you’ll need to have the weapon shipped to a gun store with a federal firearms license (FFL).
You’ll still have to present your FPIC and complete the NICS background check. The receiving gun stores typically charge a small fee for accepting the firearm. The background check and fingerprinting process involves separate fees.
What are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?
Failing to follow New Jersey’s firearm laws can lead to serious criminal penalties, including fines, firearm seizure, and possible jail time. Attempting to purchase or possess a rifle without a valid electronic permit can also result in permanent loss of your right to own a firearm.
Do Rifles Need To Be Registered in NJ?
No, rifles do not need to be registered in NJ. However, NJ has strict bans or limitations on certain types of rifles and “assault weapons.”
How Long Is the Waiting Period To Buy a Gun in NJ?
There is no fixed waiting period for rifles. You are able to purchase as many as you want, and as often as you want, as long as you remain qualified by law to do so.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Firearm Purchase Permit in NJ?
There are several different firearm purchase permits in New Jersey. An FPIC must be issued within 30 days for eligible residents. A handgun purchase permit is required for each pistol. It can take longer to receive your handgun permit.
What Disqualifies You From Owning a Gun in New Jersey?
You may be disqualified from owning a firearm in New Jersey for:
- Conviction of any felony or certain misdemeanors.
- Disqualifying court orders or a mental health defect.
- Being subject to a restraining order.
- Being a non-resident without proper dual-resident status or non-resident permits.
These are just a few examples. Always check with NJSP.
Can I Buy a Rifle the Same Day in NJ?
It depends on how fast your background check comes back. Once you get approved by NICS, you are good to go.
How Much Is a Rifle License?
A New Jersey FPIC costs $50. You may incur additional fees for fingerprinting and processing.
Learn More About NJ Firearm Regulations
Purchasing a rifle in New Jersey doesn’t have to be daunting. After obtaining your FPIC and completing the background check, you’ll receive your electronic permit. While you wait for your approval, you can take advantage of our great training curriculum and start your training now while you get approved.
If you’re ready to take your next step toward becoming a gun owner, the team at WESHOOT is here to help. Book an appointment with our staff and let us walk you through rifle options, safe storage, and training.
