Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale Overview
Connecticut has some of the strictest firearm laws in the country. All firearm transfers must go through a licensed dealer or use a DPS authorization number. A permit to purchase or eligibility certificate is required for all firearm purchases. Connecticut has a 14-day waiting period for handguns and requires registration of all firearms.
To purchase a handgun, buyers need a State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers or an Eligibility Certificate. For long guns, a Long Gun Eligibility Certificate or carry permit is required. All transfers go through the DESPP (Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection) for approval.
Connecticut has an assault weapons ban (enacted after Sandy Hook in 2013), bans magazines over 10 rounds, and requires safe storage of firearms. The state also has a red flag law and requires lost or stolen firearms to be reported within 72 hours.
Yes
Private sale BG check
14 days (handguns)
Waiting period
Yes
Registration required
Yes
Permit to purchase
Connecticut Firearm Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know about firearm transfers in Connecticut:
Important: Background Check Required
Connecticut requires background checks for private firearm sales. All transfers must be conducted through a licensed dealer. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in criminal penalties. Even with a background check, it is illegal to sell to a known prohibited person.
Seller Requirements
- FFL Transfer: Connecticut requires private sales to go through a licensed dealer for a background check
- Both Parties Present: Both buyer and seller must appear at the FFL with valid identification
- Bill of Sale: Complete a bill of sale documenting the firearm and transaction details
- No Prohibited Buyers: Do not sell to anyone you know or suspect is prohibited from possessing firearms
Buyer Requirements
- Connecticut Residency: Must be a current Connecticut resident with valid state ID
- Purchase Permit: Yes (permit or certificate required) — obtain before initiating the purchase
- Background Check: Must pass a background check processed through the FFL
- Not Prohibited: Must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law
- Retain Bill of Sale: Keep your copy as proof of legal purchase and ownership
How to Fill Out a Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Connecticut firearm bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Connecticut and federal requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, current Connecticut mailing address, date of birth, and government-issued ID number (driver's license or state ID). This information is critical for establishing a clear chain of custody for the firearm.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, current Connecticut address, date of birth, and ID number. Verify the buyer's ID is valid and current. Confirm the buyer is a Connecticut resident — selling to an out-of-state resident in a private sale is a federal crime.
Describe the Firearm
Record the firearm's make (manufacturer), model, serial number, caliber or gauge, type (handgun, rifle, shotgun), barrel length, and finish/color. The serial number is the most important identifier — verify it matches the physical firearm exactly.
State the Sale Price
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method. If the firearm is a gift, write "$0 — Gift." If a trade, describe the items exchanged.
Include Eligibility Statement
The buyer should sign a statement affirming they are legally eligible to purchase and possess firearms under both federal and Connecticut law, that they are not a prohibited person, and that they are a resident of Connecticut.
Sign, Date, and Keep Copies
Both parties must sign and date the bill of sale. Print at least two copies — one for each party. Keep your copy indefinitely as there is no statute of limitations on ATF firearm traces. Remember that the transfer must also be processed through an FFL with a background check.
Connecticut Firearm Transfer Process
Connecticut requires private firearm transfers to include a background check. Here's the step-by-step process:
Verify Both Parties' Eligibility
Check IDs to confirm both parties are Connecticut residents and of legal age. The seller should have no reason to believe the buyer is a prohibited person.
Visit a Licensed Dealer (FFL)
Both parties must appear at an FFL. The dealer will process the background check as required by Connecticut law.
Complete Background Check
The FFL will run a background check. There is a 14 days (handguns) waiting period before the buyer can take possession.
Complete and Sign the Bill of Sale
Fill in all fields including the serial number, both parties' information, and the sale price. Both parties sign and date.
Exchange Payment and Firearm
Complete the payment and transfer the firearm. Each party keeps their signed copy of the bill of sale.
Store Your Records Securely
Keep your copy of the bill of sale in a safe place indefinitely. This is your proof of legal transfer if the firearm is ever traced.
Connecticut Firearm Transfer Fees & Costs
Here are the typical costs associated with a private firearm transfer in Connecticut:
| Fee / Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Background Check Fee | Varies ($10-$40 typically) |
| FFL Transfer Fee | $10-$75 (set by dealer) |
| Registration Fee | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Carry Permit | Varies — contact issuing agency |
Sample Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Connecticut-specific firearm bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by Connecticut and federal law.
STATE OF CONNECTICUT
FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Private Party Firearm Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Connecticut Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Connecticut Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
FIREARM INFORMATION
Make: [Manufacturer] Model: [Model]
Serial #: [Serial Number]
Caliber: [Cal/Gauge] Type: [Handgun/Rifle/Shotgun]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Connecticut Firearm Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Connecticut firearm bills of sale, private transfers, and state requirements.
Official Connecticut Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify Connecticut firearm transfer requirements and access government information.
CT DESPP — Special Licensing & Firearms Unit
Connecticut firearm permits, licensing, and regulations
ATF — Federal Firearms Information
Federal firearm regulations and compliance
Connecticut General Assembly — Gun Laws
Connecticut firearms statutes
FBI NICS Background Check System
National background check system
Other Connecticut Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Connecticut? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Connecticut General Bill of Sale
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Connecticut ATV Bill of Sale
ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles
Connecticut Horse Bill of Sale
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Connecticut Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
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