Ammunition Regulation: State by State

Ammunition Regulation in Alabama Last updated November 8, 2019.

Alabama law prohibits the possession or sale of brass or steel teflon-coated handgun ammunition or ammunition of like kind designed to penetrate bullet-proof vests. However, this prohibition does not apply to the possession or sale of teflon-coated lead or brass ammunition designed to expand upon contact.1

Alabama does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. ***************************************************************************

Ammunition Regulation in Alaska Last updated November 1, 2019.

In Alaska, a state parole board may require as a condition of special medical, discretionary, or mandatory parole that a prisoner released on parole not possess or control firearm ammunition.1

Alaska does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; Prohibit armor-piercing ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. ****************************************************************************

Ammunition Regulation in Arizona Last updated December 3, 2019.

Arizona law generally prohibits anyone from giving or selling ammunition to a person under age 18 without written consent of the minor’s parent or legal guardian.1

Arizona does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; or Prohibit armor-piercing and other unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation Policy Summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Arkansas Last updated October 9, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Arkansas law does not, among other things: Prohibit individuals ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition; Require a license for the possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition. Ammunition Regulation in California Last updated December 10, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. California has some of the nation’s strongest laws regulating the sale of ammunition, and in 2019 became the first state in the nation to require a point-of-sale background check to buy ammunition. California regulates the following aspects of ammunition, as described below: Sales and transfers of ammunition; People prohibited from possessing ammunition; Minimum age to possess ammunition; Ammunition at gun shows; and Certain kinds of unreasonably dangerous ammunition. California also prohibits carrying ammunition onto school grounds, subject to certain limited exceptions.1 (1) Sales and Transfers of Ammunition In 2016, California voters passed Proposition 63, which included new provisions to comprehensively regulate ammunition sales in the state.2 More specifically: Since January 1, 2018, individuals who sell more than 500 rounds of ammunition in any month have been required to obtain a state-issued business license called an “ammunition vendor license”3 and are required to conduct ammunition sales at specified business locations or gun shows.4 Individuals who are already licensed as firearms dealers by California DOJ are automatically deemed licensed ammunition vendors, provided that they comply with other legal obligations placed on ammunition sellers.5 DOJ issues ammunition vendor licenses to individuals who provide specified documentation, including a certificate of eligibility verifying that they passed a background check.6 Once licensed, ammunition vendors are required to report the loss or theft of any ammunition from their inventory to law enforcement,7 and to obtain a certificate of eligibility from employees who handle or sell ammunition, verifying that they passed a background check.8 Ammunition sales must generally now be conducted by or processed through licensed vendors.9 Sales of ammunition by unlicensed sellers must generally be processed through a licensed ammunition vendor, in a manner similar to private party firearms transactions,10 and ammunition obtained over the Internet or from out of state must generally be initially shipped to a licensed ammunition vendor for physical delivery to the purchaser pursuant to a background check.11 Since July 1, 2019, licensed ammunition vendors have been required to record, maintain, and report to DOJ records of ammunition sales, in a manner similar to dealer’s records of sales (DROS) for firearms purchases.12 California DOJ is required to maintain a database of these ammunition sale records, similar to its analogous database for firearms transactions.13 Since July 1, 2019, licensed ammunition vendors are generally prohibited from selling or transferring ammunition until first conducting a background check to verify that the person receiving the ammunition is legally eligible.14 If the vendor is a licensed firearms dealer, they can also sell ammunition in the same transaction as a firearm with only the firearm background check required.15 State law authorizes people to sell or share ammunition with their spouses, domestic partners, parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren without the participation of a licensed vendor.16 It also authorizes people to freely share (but not sell) ammunition in person with friends and shooting partners, unless they have reason to believe that the ammunition would be illegally provided to a criminal or illegal user.17 State law also allows people to buy ammunition at a shooting range without undergoing a background check and without a sale record as long as they keep that ammunition inside the facility; if they want to bring ammunition to or from the facility, they must bring their own ammunition from home or undergo a background check at the shooting range.18 California currently prohibits people from supplying ammunition to any person they know or reasonably should know is prohibited from possessing ammunition.19 California law also make it illegal for a person to supply ammunition to a straw purchaser with knowledge or cause to believe that the straw purchaser would subsequently provide that ammunition to a prohibited person.20 (2) Persons Prohibited from Possessing Ammunition California prohibits any person from owning, possessing, or having under his or her custody or control any ammunition or reloaded ammunition if the person falls into any of the categories of persons who are ineligible to purchase or possess firearms under state law.21 In addition, a person subject to an injunction as a member of a criminal street gang may not own, possess or have any ammunition under his or her custody or control.22 (3) Minimum Age to Possess Ammunition California prohibits the possession of live ammunition by persons under age 18, with certain enumerated exceptions.23 Sellers of ammunition are prohibited from selling any ammunition to a person under 18 years of age and may not sell handgun ammunition to a person under 21 years of age.24 However, a seller, agent or employee of a seller may avoid prosecution for a violation of this law by demonstrating that the minor presented identification indicating that he or she was actually old enough to make the purchase, and that the seller, agent or employee acted in reasonable reliance on this identification.25 (4) Ammunition at Gun Shows California prohibits ammunition from being displayed at gun shows except in closed containers, unless the seller is showing the ammunition to a prospective buyer.26 In addition, no person at a gun show in California, other than security personnel or sworn peace officers, can possess at the same time both a firearm and ammunition that is designed to be fired in the firearm. Vendors selling such items at the show are exempt.27 (5) Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition California bans the manufacture, importation, sale, offer for sale, or knowing possession or transportation of handgun ammunition designed primarily to penetrate metal or armor.28 This ban applies to any ammunition (except a shotgun shell or ammunition primarily designed for use in rifles) that is designed primarily to penetrate a body vest or body shield, either by virtue of its shape, cross-sectional density, or coating, or because it has a projectile or projectile core constructed entirely of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, beryllium copper, or depleted uranium, or any equivalent material of similar density or hardness. KTW ammunition, among others, is subject to this ban.29 California also prohibits the possession, sale, offer for sale, or knowing transportation of a “destructive device,” defined to include “[a]ny projectile containing any explosive or incendiary material” or any other chemical substance including, but not limited to, that commonly known as tracer or incendiary ammunition (except tracer ammunition manufactured for use in shotguns), and any “explosive missile.”30 The state provides for the limited issuance of permits to possess or transport any destructive device, issued at the discretion of the California Department of Justice.31 California prohibits the manufacture, importation, keeping or offering for sale, transfer or possession of any “flechette dart” (dart capable of being fired from a firearm, that measures approximately one inch in length, with tail fins that take up approximately five-sixteenths of an inch of the body) or bullet that contains an explosive agent.32 In addition, California generally prohibits any person, firm or corporation from selling, offering for sale, possessing or knowingly transporting any fixed ammunition greater than .60 caliber. ((Cal. Penal Code § 18735.) Ammunition Regulation in Colorado Last updated November 8, 2019. The provisions of Colorado law that prohibit domestic abusers from possessing firearms apply to ammunition, as well. For further details, see Domestic Violence and Firearms in Colorado. Colorado does not regulate ammunition in any other way. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Connecticut Last updated December 16, 2019. Effective October 1, 2013, Connecticut prohibits the sale of ammunition or an ammunition magazine to any buyer unless the prospective ammunition purchaser: Has a handgun carry permit, gun sales permit, or long gun or handgun eligibility certificate, and presents such a credential to the seller; or Has an ammunition certificate and presents to the seller such certificate along with a driver’s license, passport, or other valid government-issued identification that contains the person’s photograph and date of birth.1 These provisions do not apply to the transfer of ammunition between federal firearms licensees, among other specific persons or entities.2 Ammunition Purchaser Permitting – Ammunition Certificate Under Connecticut law, any person who is age 18 or older may request the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection (Commissioner) to: 1) conduct a criminal history records check of such person, using the person’s name and date of birth only; and 2) if approved, issue an ammunition certificate to such person.3 The ammunition certificate must be in the form prescribed by the Commissioner, and must contain an identification number and the name, address, and date of birth of the certificate holder and be signed by the holder.4 The name and address of a person issued an ammunition certificate must be confidential and must not be disclosed except: To law enforcement officials acting in the performance of their duties; By the Commissioner to the extent necessary to comply with a request made for a firearms or ammunition certificate for verification that such certificate is still valid and has not been suspended or revoked; and To the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services to carry out the provisions of Connecticut General Statutes § 17a-500, requiring the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services to maintain information on commitment orders by a probate court and on voluntary commitments, and requires probate courts to maintain information regarding cases relating to persons with psychiatric disabilities.5 The fee for each ammunition certificate is $35 and there is an additional fee for the criminal history records check.6 An originally issued ammunition certificate expires five years after the date it becomes effective and each renewal certificate will expire five years from the date it is issued.7 An ammunition certificate must be revoked by the Commissioner if any event occurs which would have disqualified the holder from being issued the certificate.8 Prohibited Ammunition Connecticut prohibits any person from knowingly distributing, transporting, importing into the state, keeping, offering, or exposing for sale, or giving any person any “armor-piercing bullet” or “incendiary .50 caliber bullet.” An “armor-piercing bullet” includes any .50 caliber bullet that is designed for the purpose of, held out by the manufacturer or distributor as, or generally recognized as having a specialized capability to penetrate armor or bulletproof glass, including, but not limited to, bullets designated as “M2 Armor-Piercing” or “AP,” “M8 Armor-Piercing Incendiary” or “API,” “M20 Armor-Piercing Incendiary Tracer” or “APIT,” “M903 Caliber .50 Saboted Light Armor Penetrator” or “SLAP,” or “M962 Saboted Light Armor Penetrator Tracer” or “SLAPT.”9 Effective October 1, 2013, this definition will include any bullet that can be fired from a pistol or revolver that: 1) has projectiles or projectile cores constructed entirely, excluding the presence of trances of other substances, from tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper or depleted uranium; or 2) is fully jacketed with a jacket weight of more than 25% of the total weight of the projectile, is larger than .22 caliber and designed and intended for use in a firearm; and 3) does not have projectiles whose cores are composed of soft materials such as lead or lead alloys, zinc or zinc alloys, frangible projectiles designed primarily for sporting purposes, or any other projectiles or projectile cores that the U.S. Attorney General finds to be primarily intended to be used for sporting purposes or industrial purposes or that otherwise do not constitute “armor piercing ammunition” as defined in federal law.10 An “incendiary .50 caliber bullet” is defined as any .50 caliber bullet that is designed for the purpose of, held out by the manufacturer or distributor as, or generally recognized as having a specialized capability to ignite upon impact, including, but not limited to, such bullets commonly designated as “M1 Incendiary,” “M23 Incendiary,” “M8 Armor-Piercing Incendiary” or “API,” or “M20 Armor-Piercing Incendiary Tracer” or “APIT.”11 Connecticut also prohibits any person from knowingly transporting or carrying a firearm loaded with an armor piercing bullet or incendiary .50 caliber bullet.12 The prohibited ammunition provisions exempt: The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, police departments, the Department of Correction, or the state or U.S. military forces for use in the discharge of their official duties; An executor or administrator of an estate that includes such ammunition that is disposed of as authorized by the Probate Court; and The transfer by bequest or intestate succession of such ammunition.13 The federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also applies. Transfer of Ammunition for Prohibited Persons Not later than two business days after the occurrence of any event that makes a person ineligible to possess a firearm or ammunition, that person must transfer any ammunition in his or her possession to a federally licensed firearms dealer or another person eligible to possess the ammunition, or surrender the ammunition to the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection.14 The prohibited possessor may, at any time up to one year after such delivery or surrender, have any ammunition transferred to any person eligible to possess such ammunition. Notification must be given in writing by such person and the transferee to the Commissioner, who must deliver the ammunition to the transferee. If, at the end of a year, the ammunition has not been transferred at the request of the prohibited person, the Commissioner must have the ammunition destroyed. 15 Domestic Violence Prohibitions and Ammunition Connecticut requires the application form for civil restraining orders to include a space for an alleged victim of domestic violence to indicate whether the alleged domestic violence offender possesses ammunition.16 As of October 1, 2013, domestic violence units in the Connecticut judicial system that respond to cases involving family violence are required to inform the court if a domestic violence victim indicates that a defendant possesses ammunition.17 Police are allowed to seize ammunition under the same circumstances as they can seize guns when investigating domestic violence crimes.18 Namely, whenever a peace officer determines that a family violence crime has been committed, the officer may seize any ammunition at the location where the crime is alleged to have been committed that is in the possession of any person arrested for the commission of such crime or suspected of its commission or that is in plain view. The ammunition must be returned in its original condition to the rightful owner unless that person is ineligible to possess the ammunition, or unless otherwise ordered by the court.19 Disposal of Contraband Ammunition Firearms and ammunition determined by a court to be contraband or a nuisance pursuant to state law must be turned over to the Bureau of Identification of the Connecticut Division of State Police for destruction or appropriate use or disposal by sale at public auction.20 The proceeds of any such sale must be paid to the State Treasurer and deposited by the State Treasurer in the forfeit firearms account within the general fund.21 Seizure of Ammunition If any state’s attorney or assistant state’s attorney, or any two police officers have probable cause to believe that a person: 1) Poses a risk of imminent personal injury to themselves or to others; 2) Possesses one or more firearms, and 3) Such firearms are within or upon any place, thing or person, then a judge may issue a warrant commanding law enforcement to enter into or upon the named place or thing, search the place or thing or the person, and take into custody any firearms and ammunition.22 This action can only be taken if the officers have made an independent investigation and believe there is no reasonable alternative available to prevent the person from causing imminent personal injury to himself, herself or others with a firearm.23 See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Delaware Last updated November 25, 2019. Persons Prohibited from Purchasing/Possessing Ammunition Delaware prohibits the purchase, ownership, possession or control of ammunition by the same categories of persons who are ineligible to purchase or possess firearms under state law.1 See the Delaware Prohibited Purchasers Generally section for these prohibited categories. Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition Delaware prohibits the transfer of ammunition to persons under age 18, unless the person transferring the ammunition is the minor’s parent or guardian or first receives the permission of the minor’s parent or guardian.2 Delaware does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing or other unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Florida Last updated October 28, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Florida law prohibits the possession of ammunition by the same persons who are directly prohibited by Florida law from possessing firearms, although the persons who are prevented from obtaining firearms through the background check process required by Florida law are not similarly prevented from obtaining ammunition.1 The federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions also apply. Florida prohibits the manufacture, sale or delivery of any armor-piercing bullet or exploding bullet, or “dragon’s breath” shotgun shell, bolo shell, or flechette shell.2 The state also prohibits the possession of an armor-piercing bullet or exploding bullet with knowledge of its armor-piercing or exploding capabilities loaded in a handgun, and the possession of a dragon’s breath shotgun shell, bolo shell, or flechette shell with knowledge of its capabilities loaded in any firearm.3 Each of these terms is defined.4 The definition of “armor-piercing bullet” differs from the definition of “armor-piercing ammunition” in federal law, which also restricts the manufacture, sale, importation and delivery of such ammunition. Florida law does not: Impose a minimum age for the purchase or possession of ammunition, although federal minimum age requirements apply; Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require the safe storage of ammunition; or Restrict the locations where ammunition may be carried. Ammunition Regulation in Georgia Last updated November 18, 2019. Georgia law does not significantly regulate the sale, transfer, purchase or possession of ammunition in any way. Furthermore, Georgia law limits local regulation of ammunition. See Local Authority to Regulate Firearms in Georgia for further information. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Hawaii Last updated October 28, 2019. Purchase and Possession of Ammunition Hawaii prohibits the ownership, control or possession of ammunition by any person who: Is a fugitive from justice; Is a person prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law; Is under indictment for, or has been convicted of, a felony or any crime of violence, or an illegal sale of any drug; Is or has been under treatment or counseling for addiction to, abuse of, or dependence upon any dangerous drug, intoxicating compound, or intoxicating liquor; Has been acquitted of a crime on the grounds of mental disease, disorder, or defect, or is or has been diagnosed as having a significant behavioral, emotional, or mental disorder, or for treatment for organic brain syndromes; Is less than 25 years old and has been adjudicated by the family court to have committed a felony, two or more crimes of violence, or an illegal sale of any drug; Is a minor who: 1) Is or has been under treatment for addiction to any dangerous drug, intoxicating compound, or intoxicating liquor; 2) is a fugitive from justice; or 3) Has been determined not to have been responsible for a criminal act or has been committed to any institution on account of a mental disease, disorder, or defect; or Has been restrained pursuant to an order of any court from contacting, threatening, or physically abusing any person, as long as the order or any extension is in effect, unless the order specifically permits the possession of ammunition.1 Safe Storage of Ammunition Hawaii requires all ammunition to be confined to the possessor’s business or residence and only allows for the limited transport of ammunition in an enclosed container away from these locations.2 Hawaii law does not specify any ammunition storage practices, however. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Hawaii prohibits the manufacture, possession, sale or other transfer, barter, trade, gift or acquisition of any ammunition or projectile component coated with Teflon or a similar coating designed primarily to enhance its capacity to penetrate metal or pierce protective armor.3 Hawaii also prohibits the manufacture, possession, sale or other transfer, barter, trade, gift or acquisition of ammunition or projectile components designed or intended to explode or segment upon impact with a target.4 In addition, the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. Hawaii does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Idaho Last updated October 27, 2019. Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Idaho prohibits any person, firm, association or corporation from selling or giving any minor under the age of 16 any shells or fixed ammunition of any kind, except shells loaded for use in shotguns or for use in rifles of 22 caliber or smaller without the written consent of the parents or guardian of the minor.1 However, federal law prohibits firearms dealers from selling or delivering ammunition for a shotgun or rifle to any person the dealer knows or has reasonable cause to believe is under the age of 18, and from selling or delivering handgun ammunition to any person the dealer knows or has reasonable cause to believe is under the age of 21.2 Federal law prohibits unlicensed persons generally from selling, delivering or otherwise transferring handgun ammunition to any person the transferor knows or has reasonable cause to believe is under the age of 18.3 Federal law also generally prohibits the possession of handgun ammunition by anyone under the age of 18.4 Safe Storage of Ammunition A state administrative regulation requires house parents at a children’s residential care facility to store any ammunition under lock and key separate from firearms and inaccessible to children.5 Idaho does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing or other unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. For additional information on the regulation of minors in Idaho, see the Idaho Minimum Age to Purchase / Possess and Idaho Trafficking sections. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Illinois Last updated December 11, 2019. License to Sell Ammunition Illinois does not require ammunition sellers to obtain a license or maintain records of ammunition purchasers. License to Purchase/Possess Ammunition Illinois requires residents to obtain a Firearm Owner’s Identification (“FOID”) card before they can lawfully purchase or possess ammunition.1 No person may transfer firearm ammunition in Illinois unless the transferee displays a currently valid FOID card.2 For detailed information on the requirements for a FOID card, see Licensing of Gun Owners & Purchasers in Illinois section. Any resident purchasing ammunition outside the state must provide the seller with a copy of his or her valid FOID card and either his or her Illinois driver’s license or Illinois State Identification card prior to the shipment of the ammunition. The ammunition may be shipped only to an address on either of those two documents.3 People Prohibited from Purchasing or Possessing Ammunition Illinois prohibit the purchase or possession of ammunition by the same categories of people who are ineligible to purchase or possess firearms under state law.4 Federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions also apply. Minimum Age to Purchase or Possess Ammunition Illinois generally prohibits persons under age 21 from obtaining a FOID card, which is required to purchase or possess ammunition.5 A person under age 21 must have the written consent of a parent or legal guardian to purchase ammunition.6 Safe Storage of Ammunition Illinois does not generally require firearm owners to safely store ammunition. However, ammunition kept or stored in child day care facilities, foster homes or similar locations must be kept in locked storage separate from firearms and inaccessible to children.7 Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Illinois prohibits the knowing manufacture, sale, purchase, possession, or carrying of any armor-piercing bullet, dragon’s breath shotgun shell, bolo shell, or flechette shell.8 Illinois also bans the knowing manufacture, sale, offer of sale, or other transfer of any bullet or shell which is represented to be an armor piercing bullet, a dragon’s breath shotgun shell, a bolo shell, or a flechette shell.9 Illinois prohibits the reckless use or discharge of an armor-piercing bullet, flechette shell, dragon’s breath shell or bolo shell.10 The state also prohibits the possession, concealed on or about the person, of an armor piercing bullet, dragon’s breath shotgun shell, bolo shell, or flechette shell.11 Illinois prohibits the sale, manufacture or acquisition and possession of exploding ammunition.12 “Explosive bullet” means the projectile portion of an ammunition cartridge which contains or carries an explosive charge which will explode upon contact with the flesh of a human or an animal. “Cartridge” means a tubular metal case having a projectile affixed at the front thereof and a cap or primer at the rear end thereof, with the propellant contained in such tube between the projectile and the cap.13 Federal law also prohibits certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Indiana Last updated November 6, 2019. Indiana generally prohibits people from knowingly or intentionally manufacturing, possessing, transferring or offering to transfer armor-piercing ammunition, as defined.1 Note that the federal prohibitions on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also apply. Indiana does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Impose a minimum age for the purchase or possession of ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Iowa Last updated November 15, 2019. Iowa law does not: Prohibit individuals ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition; Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition. Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition Iowa prohibits any person from selling or otherwise transferring handgun ammunition to a person under age 21.1 However, a parent or guardian or spouse who is age 21 or older may allow a minor of any age to possess handgun ammunition for any lawful purpose while under the “direct supervision” of the parent, guardian or spouse, or while the person receives instruction in the proper use of a handgun from an instructor age 21 or older, with the consent of the parent, guardian or spouse.2 Iowa also generally prohibits any person from selling rifle or shotgun ammunition to a person under age 18.3 A parent or guardian over age 18, or another with the express consent of the minor’s parent or guardian, may allow a minor to possess rifle or shotgun ammunition.4 See the Iowa Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess section for further information. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Iowa generally prohibits any person from knowingly possessing any bullet or projectile containing any chemical compound or mixture designed to explode or detonate upon impact.5 Iowa generally prohibits the possession of any shotgun shell or cartridge containing “exothermic pyrophoric misch” metal as a projectile, which is designed to throw or project a flame or fireball to simulate a flamethrower.6 The federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Kansas Last updated November 18, 2019. Kansas law prohibits possessing, manufacturing, causing to be manufactured, selling, offering for sale, lending, purchasing or giving away any cartridge which can be fired by a handgun and which has a plastic-coated bullet that has a core of less than 60% lead by weight.1 Kansas law does not: Impose a minimum age for the purchase or possession of ammunition (although federal law applies); Prohibit individuals ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Kentucky Last updated November 13, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Kentucky law, like federal law, prohibits any person from knowingly manufacturing, selling, delivering, transferring, or importing armor-piercing ammunition, defined as a projectile or projectile core which may be used in a handgun and which is constructed entirely from one or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper, or depleted uranium, with exceptions for certain sporting shot and industrial materials.1 This prohibition does not apply to members of the U.S. Armed Forces or law enforcement acting within the scope of their duties, and does not prohibit licensed gun dealers from possessing the ammunition for the purpose of receiving and transferring it to these exempt individuals.2 Kentucky law also prohibits a person from being armed with a firearm loaded with armor-piercing ammunition or flanged ammunition during the commission of a felony, or in flight immediately thereafter.3 Flanged ammunition is defined as ammunition with a soft lead core and sharp flanges that are designed to expand upon impact.4 Kentucky law does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. Ammunition Regulation in Louisiana Last updated November 12, 2019. In 2008, Louisiana enacted a law prohibiting any person from intentionally giving, selling, donating, providing, lending, delivering, or otherwise transferring ammunition to any person known by the offender to have been convicted of a felony and prohibited by Louisiana law from possessing a firearm.1 Louisiana law also prohibits the import, manufacture, sale, purchase, possession and transfer of armor-piercing bullets.2 Federal law also restricts armor-piercing bullets, although the definition of that term differs under federal and Louisiana law.3 However, Louisiana does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Maine Last updated November 24, 2019. Maine law prohibits knowingly selling, furnishing, giving or offering to sell, furnish or give ammunition to a child under 16 years of age.1 Federal age restrictions for ammunition sales are stricter. Maine law prohibits knowingly possessing armor-piercing ammunition, other than as part of a bona fide collection.2 The Maine definition of “armor-piercing ammunition” differs slightly from the federal definition of armor-piercing ammunition. Maine does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Maryland Last updated November 15, 2019. Prohibited Persons Under Maryland law, a person may not possess ammunition if that person is prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm under Maryland’s Public Safety laws.1 “Ammunition” for these purposes means a cartridge, shell, or any other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in a firearm.2 See the Prohibited Purchasers Generally in Maryland section for details on circumstances that prohibit a person from possessing a regulated firearm. Loading Ammunition Maryland requires any person engaged in the business of “loading or reloading small arms ammunition” to obtain a license.3 A license is also required for possession or storage of quantities over five pounds of: 1) “smokeless powder for the loading or reloading of small arms ammunition;” or 2) “black powder for the loading or reloading of small arms ammunition.”4 Exceptions are included for persons who handle smaller quantities of smokeless or black powder for personal use so long as the powder is stored in the original shipping containers.5 Maryland does not regulate the sale or possession of other kinds of unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. In addition, no person may possess or store explosives for use in firearms in “multifamily dwellings, apartments, dormitories, hotels, schools, other public buildings, or buildings or structures open for public use.”6 Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition In Maryland, no person may sell, rent or transfer ammunition solely designed for a handgun or assault weapon to a person under age 21.7 No person may sell ammunition for any firearm to a person under age 18.8 Maryland does not: Require a license to sell regular ammunition; Ensure that sellers of ammunition maintain records of the purchasers; or Require a license to purchase or possess regular ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Massachusetts Last updated December 10, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Massachusetts law does not regulate or prohibit any types of unreasonably dangerous ammunition. Massachusetts does, however, do each of the following things, as described below: Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; Impose a minimum age to purchase or possess ammunition; and Require a license to sell ammunition. Licensing of Ammunition Purchasers and Possessors Massachusetts requires a firearm license to purchase or possess ammunition. Any person with a license to carry is permitted to purchase, rent, lease, borrow, possess and carry all types of lawful firearms, including both large and non-large capacity handguns, rifles, shotguns, and feeding devices and ammunition for these firearms.1 Alternatively, in Massachusetts, any person may purchase and possess rifles, shotguns and “non large capacity” feeding devices and ammunition for rifles and shotguns with a valid firearm identification (FID) card.2 To purchase a handgun and ammunition for a handgun, a FID card holder must also obtain a permit to purchase a handgun.3 Massachusetts law penalizes anyone who sells ammunition to a person who does not have the required license(s). For detailed information on licensing requirements for firearm owners in Massachusetts, see the section on Licensing of Gun Owners & Purchasers. Minimum Age to Purchase / Possess Ammunition Massachusetts law prohibits selling or furnishing long gun ammunition to anyone under age 18, and ammunition for a handgun, large capacity weapon, or large capacity feeding device to a person under age 21.4 Ammunition Seller Licensing Massachusetts requires any person who sells ammunition to obtain a license. The chief of police or the board or officer having control of the police in a city or town may grant a license after a criminal history check, to anyone who is not: An alien; A minor; A person who has been adjudicated a youthful offender, including those who have not received an adult sentence; or A person who has been convicted of a felony in any state or federal jurisdiction, or of the unlawful use, possession or sale of narcotic or harmful drugs. The license must specify the street and number, if any, of the building where the business is to be carried on. The Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) conducts the background check, and the local issuing authority must send CJIS a copy of the license.5 Alternatively, a sporting or shooting club may obtain a license to sell or supply ammunition for regulated shooting on the premises.6 Ammunition seller licenses are valid for three years.7 Ammunition Regulation in Michigan Last updated November 18, 2019. Laws Prohibiting Certain Persons from Purchasing/Possessing Ammunition Michigan prohibits handgun sellers from selling ammunition to any person the seller knows is under indictment for a felony or is prohibited by state law from possessing a firearm.1 See the Michigan Prohibited Purchasers Generally section for a list of these individuals. Federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions also apply. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Michigan generally prohibits any person from manufacturing, distributing, selling or using armor-piercing ammunition.2 “Armor piercing ammunition” means a projectile or projectile core which may be used in a handgun and is constructed entirely, excluding the presence of traces of other substances, of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper, or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, or beryllium copper, and does not include: Shotgun shot that is required by federal law or by a law of this state to be used for hunting purposes; A frangible projectile designed for target shooting; A projectile that the director of the Michigan Department of State Police finds is primarily intended to be used for sporting purposes; or A projectile or projectile core that the director of the Michigan Department of State Police finds is intended to be used for industrial purposes.3 The federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also applies. Michigan does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Ensure that sellers of ammunition maintain records of the purchasers; or Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Minnesota Last updated November 18, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Minnesota does not: • Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; • Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibited Persons Minnesota generally extends its laws regarding persons prohibited from possessing firearms to include parallel prohibitions preventing such persons from possessing ammunition as well.1 Ammunition Sales Licensing/Regulation Minnesota does not require a license to sell ammunition. The state does prohibit the display of centerfire metallic-case handgun ammunition for sale to the public in a manner that makes the ammunition directly accessible to persons under age 18, unless the display is under observation of the seller or the seller’s employee or agent, or the seller takes reasonable steps to exclude underage persons from the immediate vicinity of the display.2 Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition Under Minnesota law, a person under the age of 18 years is generally prohibited from possessing ammunition, except that a person under 18 may possess ammunition designed for use in a firearm that the person may lawfully possess.3 Minnesota generally bans furnishing ammunition to a child under age 14 outside of a municipality,4 and to a minor (under age 18) without the consent of the minor’s parent or guardian or the police department of the municipality, while within the municipality.5 Federal ammunition age restrictions also apply. Restricting Locations Where Ammunition May be Possessed Minnesota generally prohibits the possession of ammunition within any courthouse complex or state building within the Capitol Area, other than the National Guard Armory.6 Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Minnesota prohibits the use or possession of a “metal-penetrating bullet” during the commission of a crime.7 A “metal-penetrating bullet” is defined as a handgun bullet of “9 mm, .25, .32, .357, .38, .41, .44, or .451 caliber which is comprised of a hardened core equal to the minimum of the maximum attainable hardness by solid red metal alloys which purposely reduces the normal expansion or mushrooming of the bullet’s shape upon impact.”8 Federal prohibitions on armor-piercing ammunition also apply. Ammunition Regulation in Mississippi Last updated November 8, 2019. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Mississippi prohibits any person or corporation not duly authorized under federal law from making, manufacturing, selling or possessing armor piercing ammunition as defined by federal law.1 In addition, the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. Mississippi also prohibits any person or entity not authorized under federal law from making, manufacturing, selling or possessing armor-piercing ammunition.2 Mississippi does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; License persons who purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to purchase or possess firearms under state law from purchasing or possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Missouri Last updated December 3, 2019. Missouri generally prohibits the knowing possession, manufacture, transportation, repair or sale of a bullet or projectile that explodes or detonates on impact due to an independent explosive charge after being shot from a firearm.1 Missouri prohibits anyone from recklessly selling, leasing, loaning, giving away or delivering ammunition to a person who is intoxicated.2 Missouri also makes it a violation of state law for anyone to violate the federal law prohibiting a person under age 18 from possessing handgun ammunition and prohibiting the sale or transfer of handgun ammunition to a person under age 18.3.)) See the section entitled Firearms Trafficking in Missouri regarding a law prohibiting certain illegal sales of ammunition. Missouri does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Ensure that persons purchasing ammunition have a license or permit; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition,4 although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; or Prohibit armor-piercing ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies.5 Ammunition Regulation in Montana Last updated November 15, 2019. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Montana does not prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing or other unreasonably dangerous ammunition. Montana does mandate a sentence enhancement for any conviction for a crime in which bodily injury was inflicted, attempted, or threatened by someone who knowingly used or carried a handgun loaded with armor-piercing ammunition, however.1 Federal law also regulates armor-piercing ammunition. Montana does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; License persons who purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to purchase or possess firearms under state law from purchasing or possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Nebraska Last updated November 15, 2019. Nebraska does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; or Prohibit armor-piercing and other unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Nevada Last updated November 14, 2019. Nevada does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Obligate ammunition purchasers to obtain a license; or Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Nevada prohibits the manufacture or sale of any “metal-penetrating bullet” capable of being fired from a handgun.1 A “metal-penetrating bullet” means a bullet whose core reduces the normal expansion of the bullet upon impact, and is at least as hard as the maximum hardness attainable using solid red metal alloys, and that can be used in a handgun.2 Persons Prohibited from Purchasing/Possessing Ammunition In Nevada, a person may not sell or otherwise dispose of any ammunition to another person if the seller or transferor has “actual knowledge” that the person: Is under indictment for, or has been convicted of, a felony in Nevada, any other state, or under federal law; Is a fugitive from justice; Has been adjudicated as mentally ill or has been committed to any mental health facility; or Is illegally or unlawfully in the United States.3 See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in New Hampshire Last updated November 6, 2019. New Hampshire prohibits any person from transferring ammunition of any kind to a person under the age of 16, other than her or his own child, grandchild, or ward.1 New Hampshire law prohibits any person from attempting to use or using, in the course of committing any misdemeanor or felony, any teflon-coated or armor-piercing bullet or cartridge or any bullet or cartridge that contains an explosive substance in the projectile and is designed to explode upon impact.2 Among other things, New Hampshire law does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms from possessing ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in New Jersey Last updated October 28, 2019. Persons Prohibited from Purchasing/Possessing Ammunition In 2019, New Jersey amended the law prohibiting certain categories of individuals from purchasing, owning, possessing or controlling firearms to also include ammunition. For a list of individuals prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms and ammunition in New Jersey, see Prohibited Purchasers Generally in New Jersey. In order to sell, transfer, purchase or otherwise acquire any handgun ammunition in New Jersey, the transferee must be a licensed gun dealer, wholesaler or manufacturer, or possess a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card, a permit to purchase a handgun, or a permit to carry a handgun.1 Handgun ammunition may be transferred for lawful use in certain narrow circumstances.2 In addition, the sale of a “de minimis” amount of handgun ammunition for immediate use at a firearm range is permitted if the range is operated by a: 1) licensed firearms dealer; 2) law enforcement agency; 3) legally recognized military organization; or 4) rifle or pistol club which has filed a copy of its charter with the Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.3 Ammunition Seller Record-keeping Retail sellers of firearm ammunition are required to maintain a permanent record of ammunition acquisition and disposition.4 Acquisition records must be kept at the business location and record the name of the manufacturer, the type, caliber or gauge, quantity of the ammunition acquired, the date of each acquisition and person from whom the ammunition was acquired. Disposition records must be in bound form and contain the date of the transaction, name of manufacturer, caliber or gauge, quantity of ammunition sold, name, address and date of birth of purchaser, and identification used to establish the identity of the purchaser. Sellers must record sales or other dispositions of handgun ammunition and ammunition that may be interchangeable between rifles and handguns, as well as hollow-nosed or dum-dum ammunition.5 Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess New Jersey prohibits any person from selling, giving, transferring, assigning or otherwise disposing of handgun ammunition to a person under age 21.6 Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition New Jersey generally prohibits any person from knowingly possessing, manufacturing, transporting, shipping, selling, or disposing armor piercing ammunition.7 New Jersey also prohibits the knowing possession of any hollow nose or dum-dum bullet.8 Hollow nose and dum-dum are terms associated with bullets designed to expand on impact. These terms are not specifically defined under New Jersey law. The federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in New Mexico Last updated December 11, 2019. Restricting Locations Where Ammunition May be Possessed New Mexico prohibits any person from bringing ammunition onto the grounds of the penitentiary of New Mexico or any other designated correctional institution,1 or any county or municipal jail.2 The state also prohibits any person from bringing ammunition into any juvenile detention or correctional facility.3 New Mexico does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Ensure that sellers of ammunition maintain records of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; or Restrict armor-piercing ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in New York Last updated October 23, 2018. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. New York law defines a “Seller of ammunition,” as any person, firm or corporate entity engaging in the business of purchasing, selling, or keeping ammunition. This does not apply to private sellers.1 Licensing of Ammunition Sellers Ammunition sellers in New York must register with the state police, except for ammunition sellers who are already validly licensed firearms dealers. Ammunition sales are prohibited except through licensed dealers or registered sellers of ammunition. The transfer of ammunition must occur in person.2 Record Retention Requirement for Ammunition Sales Ammunition sellers and firearms dealers must, at the time of a transaction, record the transaction details (date, name, age, occupation, and residences of anyone transferring or receiving ammunition and also the amount, caliber, manufacturer’s name and serial number or other distinguishing information) in a record book to be maintained on the premises and made available for inspection by any law enforcement officer. This information is not considered a public record.3 Background Checks Before Transfer of Ammunition An ammunition seller or firearms dealer may not transfer any ammunition to anyone other than a licensed dealer unless he or she conducts a check against records maintained in the state’s electronic database and receives a number identifying the transaction and signifying that the transferee is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing the firearm or ammunition.4 The ammunition seller or gun dealer must also check a valid driver’s license or other photo identification of the prospective purchaser prior to transfer. After the transfer, the transferee must indicate to the database that the transaction was completed at which time a record of the transaction, to be maintained for no longer than one year, will be made available to law enforcement but will not be made a part of the new firearms database for licenses and records or the new firearms registry. A record of the transaction may be shared with local law enforcement but will not be a public record. This requirement will not apply if the background check system is not operational or if a dealer or seller was issued a waiver from conducting a background check by the state police.5 Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition New York prohibits the possession of ammunition by any person under age 16.6 Federal law imposes additional age restrictions. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition New York prohibits the possession of armor piercing ammunition with the intent to use it unlawfully against another.7 “Armor piercing ammunition” is any ammunition capable of being used in handguns that contains a projectile or projectile core constructed entirely from one or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper or uranium.8 New York generally prohibits any person from knowingly possessing any bullet containing an explosive substance designed to explode or detonate upon impact.9 License to Purchase Handgun Ammunition A firearms dealer may not sell any ammunition designed exclusively for use in a handgun to any person who is not authorized to possess a pistol or revolver.10 See Licensing of Gun Owners in New York for further information. Ammunition Regulation in North Carolina Last updated November 6, 2019. North Carolina prohibits any person from importing, manufacturing, possessing, storing, transporting, selling, offering to sell, purchasing, offering to purchase, delivering, giving or acquiring any teflon-coated bullet.1 This prohibition does not apply to the following individuals: Licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers for the purpose of sale to authorized law-enforcement agencies; or Inventors, designers, ordinance consultants and researchers, chemists, physicists, and other persons employed by or under contract with a manufacturing company engaged in making or doing research designed to enlarge knowledge or to facilitate the creation, development, or manufacture of more effective police-type body armor.2 North Carolina does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in North Dakota Last updated November 14, 2019. North Dakota prohibits knowingly supplying ammunition to, or procuring ammunition for, a person who is prohibited by North Dakota law from receiving or possessing it.1However, no North Dakota law limits the persons who may receive or possess ammunition. Note that federal law prohibits certain persons from receiving or possessing ammunition and prohibits the sale or transfer of ammunition to these persons.2 However, federal law does not require a seller of ammunition to conduct a background check on the purchaser to determine whether he or she is a prohibited person.3 North Dakota also does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing or other unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Ohio Last updated November 6, 2019. Ohio does not: • Require a license for the sale of ammunition; • Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; • Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; • Prohibit armor-piercing ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies; or • Otherwise regulate ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Oklahoma Last updated November 1, 2019. Oklahoma bans the possession, carrying, use, attempted use, manufacture, importation, advertising for sale or sale of any “restricted bullet.”1 A “restricted bullet” is a round or elongated missile with a core of less than 60% lead and that has a fluorocarbon coating, designed to travel at high velocity and capable of penetrating body armor.2 Oklahoma also prohibits carrying a concealed handgun loaded with ammunition larger than .45 caliber.3 In 2011, Oklahoma enacted a law prohibiting certain conduct relating to fraudulent purchase of ammunition. See our Oklahoma Trafficking section. Oklahoma does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; License persons who purchase or possess ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to purchase or possess firearms under state law from purchasing or possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Oregon Last updated November 17, 2019. Oregon prohibits any person from making, selling, buying or possessing any handgun ammunition (principally for use in pistols and revolvers) where the bullet or projectile is coated with Teflon or any chemical compound with properties similar to Teflon, and which is intended to penetrate soft body armor, and where the person intends that the ammunition be used in the commission of a felony.1 Federal law also prohibits certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition. Oregon does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; Restrict locations where ammunition may be possessed; or Require the safe storage of ammunition. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Pennsylvania Last updated November 18, 2019. Pennsylvania law makes it a separate crime for a person who commits or attempts to commit a “crime of violence” to possess, use or attempt to use a KTW teflon-coated bullet or other “armor-piercing ammunition” while committing or attempting to commit that crime.1 “Armor-piercing ammunition” is defined as: [A]mmunition which, when or if fired from any firearm as defined in section 6102 that is used or attempted to be used in violation of subsection (a) under the test procedure of the National Institute of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Standard for the Ballistics Resistance of Police Body Armor promulgated December 1978, is determined to be capable of penetrating bullet-resistant apparel or body armor meeting the requirements of Type IIA of Standard NILECJ-STD-0101.01 as formulated by the United States Department of Justice and published in December of 1978.2 Pennsylvania law does not otherwise regulate the sale or possession of ammunition in any way. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Rhode Island Last updated November 17, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Rhode Island does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Ensure that sellers of ammunition maintain records of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition Rhode Island generally prohibits any person from selling, transferring, giving, conveying or causing to be sold, transferred, given or conveyed, any firearm or ammunition to any person under age 18, when the person knows or has reason to know that the recipient is under age 18.1 Persons under age 18 are also prohibited from possessing or using ammunition.2 Federal minimum age limits also apply. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Rhode Island prohibits the importation, manufacture, sale or other transfer or purchase of “armor-piercing bullets,” which have steel inner cores or cores of equivalent hardness and truncated cones and are designed for use in pistols as armor-piercing or metal-piercing bullets.3 The federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also applies. Ammunition Regulation in South Carolina Last updated November 6, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. South Carolina prohibits the use, transportation, manufacture, possession, distribution, sale or purchase of any ammunition or shells that are coated with Teflon.1 Federal prohibitions on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also apply. A law South Carolina adopted in 2010 makes it unlawful for a person who has been convicted of a “violent crime,” as defined by South Carolina law, to possess ammunition if the violent crime is also classified as a felony offense.2 In 2013, South Carolina enacted a law making it unlawful for a person who has been “adjudicated as a mental defective” or who has been “committed to a mental institution” to ship, transport, possess, or receive ammunition.3 The definitions of “adjudicated as a mental defective” and “committed to a mental institution” mirror federal law. In 2015, South Carolina enacted a law making it unlawful for certain domestic abusers to possess ammunition.4 See Domestic Violence and Firearms in South Carolina for further information. South Carolina does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers. Ammunition Regulation in South Dakota Last updated October 26, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. South Dakota law does not: Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; or Regulate or prohibit any type of unreasonably dangerous ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to make a record of the purchasers; Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition. In addition, South Dakota only prohibits a person from selling, transferring, giving, loaning, furnishing, or delivering ammunition to a person under age 18, if such person knows or reasonably believes that the minor intends, at the time of transfer, to use the ammunition in the commission or attempted commission of a crime of violence.1 Ammunition Regulation in Tennessee Last updated November 16, 2019. Tennessee does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of purchasers; Require persons purchasing or possessing ammunition to obtain a license; or Require the safe storage of ammunition in the home. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Tennessee prohibits the sale, offer for sale, display for sale, manufacture and use of any ammunition cartridge containing a bullet with explosive material designed to detonate upon impact.1 Federal prohibitions on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition also apply. Persons Prohibited from Purchasing/Possessing Ammunition Tennessee prohibits any person from intentionally, knowingly or recklessly selling ammunition to an intoxicated person.2 Tennessee does not otherwise prohibit the transfer of ammunition to, or the purchase and possession of ammunition by, persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law, although federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Texas Last updated December 12, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Texas law does not: Impose a minimum age for the purchase or possession of ammunition; Require the seller of ammunition to make a record of the purchaser; Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition. Purchase/Possession Prohibitions Texas prohibits the transfer of ammunition to some, but not all, of the same categories of persons who are prohibited from purchasing firearms under state law. More specifically, Texas prohibits any person from intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly selling ammunition to any person who is intoxicated, and from knowingly selling ammunition to any person who has been convicted of a felony before the fifth anniversary of the later of: 1) the person’s release from confinement following conviction of the felony; or 2) the person’s release from supervision under community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision following conviction of the felony.1 Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Texas prohibits the intentional or knowing possession, manufacture, sale, transportation or repair of any armor-piercing ammunition. “Armor-piercing ammunition” is defined as “handgun ammunition that is designed primarily for the purpose of penetrating metal or body armor and to be used principally in pistols and revolvers.”2 Ammunition Regulation in the District of Columbia Last updated October 24, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Prohibited Possessors/Registration Requirements The District of Columbia broadly prohibits the possession of ammunition1. A holder of a valid registration certificate for a firearm may possess ammunition, however ((D.C. Code Ann. § 7-2506.01(a)(3).)). Licensed firearms dealers, on-duty law enforcement officers, holders of ammunition collector’s certificates, and persons temporarily possessing ammunition while participating in a firearms training and safety class conducted by a firearms instructor also exempt2. Federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions also apply. Ammunition Sales Licensing/Regulation The sale or other transfer of ammunition is strictly regulated. Any person or organization eligible to register a firearm may sell or otherwise transfer ammunition only to a licensed dealer3. Licensed dealers may sell or otherwise transfer ammunition only if: The sale or transfer is made in person; The purchaser exhibits, at the time of transfer, a valid registration certificate (if the purchaser is a nonresident, he or she must produce proof that the firearm is lawfully possessed in the jurisdiction where such person resides); The ammunition to be transferred is of the same caliber or gauge as the firearm described in the registration certificate (or other similar proof in the case of nonresident); and The purchaser signs a receipt for the ammunition (the dealer must maintain this receipt for at least one year from the date of sale)4. This does not apply to, inter alia, sales to other licensed dealers and certain law enforcement officers and government agents5. For additional information about ammunition that must be maintained as part of a dealer’s inventory, see the District Dealer Regulations section. Owners or managers of establishments where ammunition is stored or kept for sale at wholesale or at both wholesale and retail must pay a license fee of $7606. Owners or managers of establishments where ammunition is kept for sale at retail must pay a license fee of $477. Minimum Age to Purchase/Possess Ammunition Because a registration certificate is required for the possession of a firearm8, licensed dealers may only transfer ammunition to valid registration certificate holders9, and persons under age 21 cannot obtain a registration certificate10, persons under age 21 are generally prohibited from possessing or obtaining ammunition. Federal minimum age requirements may also apply. Regulation of Unreasonably Dangerous Ammunition Under District law, a “restricted pistol bullet” is defined as A projectile or projectile core which may be used in a pistol and which is constructed entirely (excluding the presence of traces of other substances) from one or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper, or depleted uranium; A full jacketed projectile larger than .22 caliber designed and intended for use in a pistol and whose jacket has a weight of more than 25% of the total weight of the projectile; or Ammunition for a .50 BMG rifle.11. Licensed dealers may transfer restricted pistol bullets to only: 1) another licensed dealer; or 2) any law enforcement officer or agent of the District or the United States, when such officer or agent is on duty and acting within the scope of his or her duties when acquiring such ammunition, if the officer or agent has in his or her possession a statement from the head of his or her agency stating that the item is to be used only in official duties.12. The District prohibits firearm registration certificate holders from possessing restricted pistol bullets13. Federal law also prohibits certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition. Ammunition Regulation in Utah Last updated November 18, 2019. Utah limits the transportation of ammunition into or within correctional facilities, mental health facilities and institutions of higher education.1 For more information, see the Utah Location Restrictions section. Utah does not: Prohibit the possession of ammunition by individuals prohibited from possessing firearms; Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Generally prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing or other unreasonably dangerous ammunition,2 although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Vermont Last updated September 17, 2018. Vermont law prohibits any person, firm or corporation, other than a parent or guardian, from selling or furnishing any ammunition to a minor under age 16.1 Federal law, however, imposes stricter age requirements on the sale of ammunition. Vermont does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Prohibit persons who are ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition, although the federal ammunition purchaser prohibitions apply; or Prohibit armor-piercing ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Ammunition Regulation in Virginia Last updated November 1, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. In 2009, Virginia enacted a law that prohibits the knowing and intentional possession or transportation of ammunition by any person: 1) convicted of a felony; 2) adjudicated delinquent as a juvenile 14 years of age or older at the time of the offense of murder, kidnapping, robbery by the threat or presentation of firearms, or rape; or 3) who is under the age of 29 and was found guilty as a juvenile (14 years of age or older) of a delinquent act which would be a felony if committed by an adult.1 Virginia law does not: Prohibit other individuals ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition; Prohibit the sale or possession of unreasonably dangerous ammunition;2 Impose a minimum age for the purchase or possession of ammunition (although federal law applies); Require a license for the purchase or possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition. Ammunition Regulation in Washington Last updated December 3, 2019. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue. Licensing of Ammunition Sellers No firearms dealer may sell or otherwise transfer, or expose for sale or transfer, or have in his or her possession with intent to sell or otherwise transfer, any ammunition without being licensed by the State of Washington.1 See the Washington Dealer Regulations section for further information. Safe Storage of Ammunition Small arms ammunition must be stored separated from flammable liquids, flammable solids and oxidizing materials by a fire-resistant wall “of one-hour rating” or by a distance of 25 feet.2 State administrative regulations govern the storage of ammunition in family home child care facilities.3 State administrative regulations may regulate other aspects of ammunition. Washington does not: Prohibit individuals ineligible to possess firearms under state law from possessing ammunition; Require a license for the possession of ammunition; or Require a license to sell ammunition, unless the seller is operating as a dealer. Ammunition Regulation in West Virginia Last updated December 3, 2019. West Virginia prohibits a person or company from knowingly selling, renting, giving or lending ammunition to a person who is prohibited from possessing it under state or federal law.1 West Virginia law, unlike federal law, does not prohibit anyone from possessing ammunition. West Virginia prohibits any person from publicly displaying or offering for sale or rent ammunition where a passerby on a street, road or alley can see it.2 See the section entitled Firearms Trafficking in West Virginia regarding a law aimed at the trafficking of ammunition. West Virginia does not: Require a license for the sale of ammunition; Require sellers of ammunition to maintain a record of the purchasers; Require a license to purchase or possess ammunition; or Prohibit the possession, transfer or use of armor-piercing or other unreasonably dangerous ammunition, although the federal prohibition on certain kinds of armor-piercing ammunition applies. See our Ammunition Regulation policy summary for a comprehensive discussion of this issue.