How Much Does a Background Check Cost When Buying a Gun in Utah?

Figuring out how to buy a gun in Utah can be straightforward, given that the state doesn't have licensing or registration requirements. However, meeting specific legal standards and undergoing a background check are essential steps for maintaining eligibility. In this article, we'll explore the specifics of background checks in Utah, including costs, procedures, and requirements. Let's dive in.

Basic Requirements When Buying a Gun in Utah

The background check is only one part of the gun-buying process in Utah. Before making a purchase, you must adhere to several basic rules. Here’s what you need to know:

Laws for Handguns

You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun from an FFL dealer. Anyone 18 years and older can buy a handgun through a private sale. All handgun buyers must be legal residents of the state unless they are active-duty military with a permanent duty station in Utah.

Rifle and Shotgun Rules

The laws are more relaxed when buying rifles and shotguns, as the buyers only need to be 18 years old. Nonresidents can buy rifles and shotguns if they comply with the laws in their resident state. Legal immigrants can also buy rifles and shotguns in Utah.

Buying a Gun as a Gift

You are permitted to give a gun as a gift, but you can’t receive compensation for it. It’s illegal to buy a gun for a friend and have that friend repay you for it, but you can gift the firearm to a friend. Parents can give a gun to their minor children for limited purposes such as employment, hunting, and target practice.

These basic guidelines help you understand who can legally buy a gun in Utah. However, background check laws are more detailed and create some exceptions to these rules.

Utah Background Check Procedures

Utah's background checks are relatively simple compared to those in other states. Here are seven key procedures you should be aware of:

1. Only for Licensed Dealers

The most critical piece of information is that Utah background checks are only applicable when buying from an FFL dealer. Private purchases, while possible, don’t require background checks. However, private transactions come with fewer guarantees about the firearm's history.

2. Concealed Carry Exemption

Utah has a concealed carry exemption, so individuals with concealed carry permits don’t need to undergo background checks, even when buying from FFL dealers. This can save you from additional hassle.

3. The Bureau of Criminal Identification’s Role

Firearms dealers in Utah are required to contact the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) before making a gun sale. The BCI uses state and federal records to complete the background check and ensure the buyer is legally permitted to purchase the weapon.

4. Photo ID Is Necessary

You need a photo ID to prove your identity. This step helps prevent fraud by ensuring buyers can’t use someone else's ID to obtain a firearm. The ID must include an in-state address.

5. No Registration, License, or Limits

Utah doesn’t require any registration or licensing once you buy the gun. Background checks are solely for determining if you’re legally permitted to own a firearm. The state also doesn’t limit the number of guns you can purchase after passing the background check.

6. Fee Involved

A fee of $7.50 is required for the background check. Concealed carry permit holders are exempt from this fee as they can skip the background check.

7. Reasons for Denial

While it's rare to be denied a gun purchase, there are certain reasons that can lead to rejection. Felony convictions, lack of residency, outstanding warrants, dishonorable military discharges, and renunciation of American citizenship can all result in denial.

These procedures are generally straightforward, making the gun-buying process in Utah manageable for eligible individuals.