Vermont Firearm Bill of Sale Overview
Vermont has historically been the most permissive state for carry — it never required a permit to carry concealed, making it the original 'Constitutional carry' state. However, in 2018, Vermont enacted universal background checks and a 24-hour waiting period for handguns following the Parkland shooting.
All private firearm sales must now go through a licensed dealer for a NICS background check. There is a 24-hour waiting period for handguns. Vermont does not issue concealed carry permits (they've never been needed) and does not require firearm registration.
Vermont bans magazines over 10 rounds for long guns and over 15 rounds for handguns (enacted 2018). The state has a red flag law. Vermont raised the minimum age to purchase firearms to 21 (with exceptions for hunting and military). There is no assault weapons ban.
Yes
Private sale BG check
24 hours (handguns)
Waiting period
No
Registration required
No
Permit to purchase
Vermont Firearm Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know about firearm transfers in Vermont:
Important: Background Check Required
Vermont 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: Vermont 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
- Vermont Residency: Must be a current Vermont resident with valid state ID
- 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 Vermont Firearm Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Vermont firearm bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Vermont and federal requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, current Vermont 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 Vermont address, date of birth, and ID number. Verify the buyer's ID is valid and current. Confirm the buyer is a Vermont 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 Vermont law, that they are not a prohibited person, and that they are a resident of Vermont.
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.
Vermont Firearm Transfer Process
Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont law.
Complete Background Check
The FFL will run a background check. There is a 24 hours (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.
Vermont Firearm Transfer Fees & Costs
Here are the typical costs associated with a private firearm transfer in Vermont:
| Fee / Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Background Check Fee | Varies ($10-$40 typically) |
| FFL Transfer Fee | $10-$75 (set by dealer) |
| Firearm Registration | Not required |
| Carry Permit | Optional — available for reciprocity |
Sample Vermont Firearm Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Vermont-specific firearm bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by Vermont and federal law.
STATE OF VERMONT
FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Private Party Firearm Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Vermont Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Vermont 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]
Vermont Firearm Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Vermont firearm bills of sale, private transfers, and state requirements.
Official Vermont Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify Vermont firearm transfer requirements and access government information.
Other Vermont Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Vermont? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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