Out of State Guns in New Jersey

Weapons Lawyers Serving Clients in Union County and throughout New Jersey

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Out of State Gun Questions NJ

The issue of out of state guns in New Jersey has many layers. For example, you may be wondering about traveling through New Jersey with a firearm that you purchased and licensed legally in another state. Or perhaps you are moving to New Jersey from another state and wondering what the appropriate steps are to remain in compliance with New Jersey law.

At The Tormey Law Firm, we serve as a go-to resource for New Jersey residents and gun owners from other states who wish to exercise their gun rights while in compliance with New Jersey law. Our highly experienced New Jersey weapons attorneys come from a diverse set of backgrounds, having served as gun prosecutors, members of the Attorney General’s Office, and members of County Weapons Forfeiture Units during their careers. In addition, our founder, Travis J. Tormey, is a highly recognized criminal defense attorney who was recently named among the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in New Jersey by the American Jurist Institute. We now provide assistance with a myriad of gun-related issues, including the firearms permit process, appeals of gun permit denials, return of weapons hearings related to domestic violence, expungements to obtain gun permits, and criminal defense for those facing criminal weapons charges. To find the answers to your questions regarding New Jersey gun laws, contact us today at (201)-614-2474 for a free initial consultation. You can also read on for more information about out-of-state guns in New Jersey.

Can I travel to New Jersey with a gun from another state?

The answer to this question has two distinct parts. First, New Jersey does not recognize out-of-state gun carry permits, meaning that a gun that you legally purchased and possess in another state is not legal for you to carry in New Jersey. Even if you underwent the necessary application process and obtained the appropriate licenses and permits, if they are not from New Jersey, they are invalid. As a result, you may face charges for unlawful possession of a weapon if you are found in possession of a gun with an out-of-state permit. These offenses are considered extremely serious, and may result in a prison sentence for those convicted.

The exemption to this rule involves traveling through New Jersey if you abide by Federal law with regard to transporting firearms. If you are going to be traveling through New Jersey with a firearm in your vehicle, it must be unloaded, with neither the firearm nor any ammunition readily accessible or directly accessible for the passenger compartment. If you do not abide by these requirements; for example, you have a valid carry permit for your gun from another state and it is in your glove compartment, you may face charges for unlawful possession of a weapon.

If I am moving to New Jersey, how do I transport my gun into the state?

Both Federal and State law regulate the transportation of firearms. Under New Jersey law, policies regarding the transportation of a firearm are outlined in section N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6. According to this statute, a person can transport his or her firearm between one residence and another when moving if in compliance with the following requirements:

  • Firearms must be unloaded;
  • Firearms must be contained in:
    • A closed and fastened case
    • A gunbox
    • A securely tied package, or
    • Locked in the trunk of the automobile in which it is being transported

Do I have to register my gun if I move to New Jersey?

If you already possess the firearm, the answer is no. New Jersey operates under a voluntary registration policy for firearms. However, if you wish to purchase a firearm once you arrive, you must submit to the gun permit application process. If you move to the state and bring your gun with you, you must comply with the laws regarding carrying firearms. Unless you obtain a New Jersey Permit to Carry a Handgun, you may only keep or possess a firearm about your place of business, residence, premises, or other land owned or possessed by you.

Contact our Union County Gun Lawyers for Answers

For additional information about out of state guns in New Jersey, contact our NJ gun lawyers today at (201)-614-2474. We have several office locations throughout the state and assist clients in Union, Somerset, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Essex, and Bergen counties.