Can you legally own a gun in New Mexico, United States?
In New Mexico, United States, it is legal for individuals to own a gun. The state constitution guarantees the right to bear arms, with some restrictions. To legally own a gun, you must be at least 18 years old and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
How do you obtain a gun license in New Mexico?
New Mexico does not require a license or permit to purchase or own a firearm. However, if you wish to carry a concealed handgun, you must obtain a concealed carry permit. To apply for a concealed carry permit, you must:
- Be a resident of New Mexico
- Be at least 21 years old
- Complete a state-approved firearms training course
- Not be prohibited by federal or state law from possessing a firearm
- Submit an application to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, along with fingerprints and the required fees
What are the concealed carry and open carry rules in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, open carry of a loaded firearm is legal without a permit for individuals who are at least 19 years old and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. However, there are some restrictions on where firearms can be carried, such as schools, government buildings, and establishments that sell alcohol for on-site consumption.
Concealed carry of a loaded handgun is legal with a valid concealed carry permit. New Mexico is a shall issue state, meaning that if you meet the requirements, the state must issue you a permit. New Mexico also recognizes concealed carry permits from several other states.
What are the laws, penalties, and law enforcement policies regarding firearms in New Mexico?
New Mexico has several laws in place to regulate the use, possession, and sale of firearms. Some of these laws include:
- Background checks are required for all firearm sales by licensed dealers
- Private sales between individuals are not regulated, but it is a crime to knowingly sell a firearm to a prohibited person
- It is illegal to possess a firearm on school grounds, in courthouses, and in certain other locations
- It is a crime to use a firearm in the commission of a felony
Penalties for violating firearm laws in New Mexico can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the offense. Law enforcement agencies in New Mexico are responsible for enforcing these laws and may collaborate with federal agencies when necessary.
What are the current gun regulations in New Mexico, United States?
Current gun regulations in New Mexico include:
- No requirement for a permit to purchase or own a firearm
- Open carry is legal without a permit for individuals 19 years old and above
- Concealed carry requires a valid permit
- Background checks are required for sales by licensed dealers
- Some restrictions on firearm possession in certain locations
Which guns are prohibited in New Mexico, United States?
New Mexico does not have any specific restrictions on the types of firearms that can be owned by law-abiding citizens. However, federal laws still apply, which prohibit the possession of fully automatic firearms, short-barreled shotguns, and short-barreled rifles without the proper registration and tax stamp from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
What are the rules regarding air rifles, crossbows, and airsoft guns in New Mexico, United States?
Air rifles, crossbows, and airsoft guns are generally not considered firearms under New Mexico law and do not require a permit to own or possess. However, some localities may have specific ordinances regulating the use of these devices, especially within city limits. It is important to check with your local government for any specific regulations in your area.
What is the firearm ownership per capita and other gun statistics in New Mexico?
According to the Gunstocarry website, there are approximately 42.8 guns per 100 residents in New Mexico, ranking it 39th in the United States for gun ownership per capita. The state has a relatively low rate of gun-related deaths, with 15.4 per 100,000 residents in 2019.
Are there any ammunition and high-capacity magazine restrictions in New Mexico?
New Mexico does not have any specific laws regulating the sale or possession of ammunition or high-capacity magazines. However, federal laws still apply, which may restrict the sale of armor-piercing ammunition and magazines with a capacity of more than 10 rounds for certain firearms.
Is there a red flag law in New Mexico?
Yes, New Mexico has a red flag law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. This law allows law enforcement officers or family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from an individual who poses a significant risk to themselves or others. The law was enacted in 2020 and is intended to help prevent gun violence and suicide.
Relevant government laws and links related to firearms in New Mexico include:
- New Mexico Department of Public Safety Concealed Carry Licenses
- New Mexico Statutes and Court Rules (See Chapter 30, Article 7 for firearm-related laws)
- ATF New Mexico Field Offices