State Laws · ID
Idaho Gun Laws
Effective as of March 25, 2020 (HB 516 (constitutional carry expansion)). Laws change — you should check for updates or consult with a licensed firearms trainer in your state before acting on this information.
Concealed & Open Carry
Idaho adopted constitutional carry for residents in 2016 and expanded it to all U.S. citizens aged 18 and older in 2020 under HB 516. Open carry is legal without a permit. Idaho issues an Enhanced Concealed Carry License for reciprocity.
Key statute: Idaho Code § 18-3302 — issuance of licenses to carry concealed weapons. Constitutional carry exemptions under § 18-3302(4).
Who Cannot Carry
Prohibited persons include: convicted felons (unless rights restored after five years for non-violent felonies), persons adjudicated as mentally ill, persons under 18, and persons who are otherwise prohibited under federal law.
Prohibited Locations
Idaho prohibits firearms in: courthouses (with exceptions for permit holders), juvenile correctional facilities, and school property (K-12). Idaho has strong preemption preventing local firearms regulations under § 18-3302J.
Purchase Requirements
No permit is required to purchase any firearm. All FFL sales require a NICS background check. Private sales do not require a background check. There is no waiting period, no state firearms registry, no assault weapons ban, and no magazine restriction.
Citations
Idaho Code Title 18, Chapter 33 (firearms, weapons, and explosives); HB 516 (2020).
Look up statutes at Idaho Legislature →Legal disclaimer
This summary is for informational purposes only. Firearms laws change frequently. Always verify current statutes and consult a qualified attorney before making legal decisions.
Sources & official resources
Federal firearms laws
ATF.gov — Laws: Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives →Idaho statutes
Idaho Legislature →This link goes to Idaho's legislative website. To find specific firearms statutes, search for terms like "concealed carry," "firearms," or "weapons permit" in the site's search function.