Understanding Utah State Laws for Private Gun Sales
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Age Requirements for Buying a Gun in Utah
When selling your gun privately in Utah, you must make sure that your buyer is old enough to buy and own a gun.
- For shotguns and rifles, your buyer must be at least 18 years old
- For handguns, your buyer must be at least 21 years old
Background Check Requirements for Private Gun Sales in Utah
As a private seller in Utah, you are not required to have your buyer get a background check. However, you should still take caution and make sure that your buyer is legally allowed to buy and own a gun in Utah. You can be held liable if you knowingly sell to a prohibited person. Utah state police
While not required, you can opt to sell your gun with the help of an FFL, or even sell your gun to an FFL to protect yourself legally. An FFL is required to conduct background checks on anyone buying a gun with them.
Who is Prohibited From Buying Guns in Utah?
According to federal and state law, a person can’t legally buy a gun if Utah if they:
- are convicted of a felony
- are under indictment for a felony, but has not gone to court
- are the unlawful user of a controlled substance
- are drug dependant
- are adjudicated mentally defective or been committed to a mental institution
- are an illegal or unlawful alien in the Untied States
- are dishonorably discharged from the military
- have renounced citizenship of the United States
- are subject to court order restraining them from harassing, stalking or threatening another (i.e. spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant or child of such partner)
- cannot prove Utah residency with proper identification
- have any warrant
- have any domestic violence conviction
- have been convicted as a juvenile for an offense which would have been a felony if committed by an adult (within last 10 years)
Identification Requirements for Private Sales
While you aren’t legally required to check ID for a private gun sale in Utah, it is recommended.
Registration Requirements for guns in Utah
There is no requirement to register guns in Utah.
Permit/License Requirements for Gun Sales in Utah
Utah does not require you to have a license or permit to own a gun. The only gun permit Utah has is a concealed carry permit, which can act in place of a background check.
Residency Requirements for Private Gun Sales in Utah
Under federal law, you cannot sell to a private person across state lines without using an FFL. If a person from another state wants to buy your gun, you must transfer it to an FFL in the buyer’s home state and follow the laws of that state.
Waiting Periods to Buy a Gun in Utah
There is no waiting period to buy a gun in Utah, whether it’s privately or through an FFL.
Protecting Yourself When Selling a Gun in Utah
As a gun seller in Utah, you need to protect yourself from potential legal issues. This can be achieved by following the law to the letter and keeping detailed records of all transactions.
General Tips for Safe Transactions
- Keep a Bill of Sale to document the transaction
- When meeting with a buyer, meet them in a public place and bring someone with you
- Utilize an FFL to help you sell your gun in Utah
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Upcoming Online Verification Process (Effective July 1st, 2023)
As of July 1st, 2023, Utah implemented an online verification process for private gun sales. This new process aims to make transactions safer and easier by allowing sellers to verify the eligibility of a buyer online.
Ensure a Safe and Profitable Sale of Your Gun in Utah
If you want the best value for your gun, make sure you follow these general guidelines:
- Take well lit photos of your gun
- Make sure your gun is working and cleaned
- Research the value of your gun (Cash for Arms will offer free appraisals)
Where Can You Sell Your Gun in Utah?
Option 1: Cash for Arms
As a national FFL, Cash for Arms buys more guns than most. With that comes with a ton of knowledge and research into the value of various guns, so you can take comfort in knowing that they will give you a fair and competitive offer.
How it works:
- Submit your gun’s details online
- Accept the cash offer (or choose to consign)
- Ship your gun to us with a prepaid shipping label
- Get paid!
Pro Tip: If you're selling a large amount of guns, use our liquidation services in Utah for better deals!
Option 2: Utah Gun Store
Selling your gun to a gun store in Utah is another great option, especially if you need cash fast. Typically, a gun store will pay you that day for your used gun. You should note though, they will typically only offer around 50-70% of your gun’s value.
How it works:
- Call ahead to see if the gun store buys used guns
- Bring your unloaded gun in for appraisal
- Get paid
Pro Tip: Check around with a variety of different shops to get the best deal.
Option 3: Utah Pawn Shop
This should generally be a last resort for someone who needs quick cash. Selling a gun to a pawn shop will generally yield the lowest prices for your used gun. The process is generally the same as selling your gun to a gun shop, but it’s much harder to find a pawn shop that will buy a used gun.
Option 4: Privately
Selling a gun privately in Utah can get you some of the best prices, but comes with the most risk. Ultimately, you are responsible for making sure the gun is going to the right person.
How it works:
- Advertise your gun on online platforms like GunBroker or Utah Gun Exchange
- Get to know your buyer, make sure they are allowed to own a gun
- Meet with the buyer and transfer the gun to them
Pro Tip: Make sure to get a Bill of Sale, even though it isn’t required. This can help document the transaction and give some legal protection.
Conclusion:
Selling a gun in Utah involves understanding and following specific legal requirements to ensure a safe and lawful transaction. Whether you choose to sell privately or through a licensed dealer, it's crucial to prioritize safety and compliance.
For a hassle-free experience that offers competitive pricing and legal peace of mind, consider selling your gun to Cash for Arms. As a national FFL, we provide a secure, efficient process to sell your gun while ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Ready to sell your gun? Visit our website today to get a free appraisal and experience the easiest way to sell your gun in Utah legally.