Gun Laws/New York/Reviewed September 23, 2026
How old do you have to be to buy a handgun in New York?
Quick answer
21
New York: state law sets 21 to buy a handgun.
4 of New York's 5 neighboring states have the same status.
Not legal advice. Source: GunPartPicker state law review, September 23, 2026
Minimum age to buy a gun by state
New York law in detail
- Yes (handguns + semi-auto rifles) Permit to Purchase — A license is required to purchase handguns (pistol permit) and semi-automatic rifles. The minimum age for semi-auto rifle purchases is 21.
The federal rule
Federal law has two floors. A licensed dealer may sell a rifle or shotgun at 18, and 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) bars that dealer from selling any other firearm, which includes handguns and bare frames and receivers, to anyone under 21. On September 17, 2026 the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel concluded that the 21 rule is unconstitutional as applied to 18 to 20 year olds and cannot be criminally enforced against dealers. The statute, the ATF regulations and Form 4473 are all unchanged, ATF has issued no guidance, and the opinion expressly does not reach frames and receivers. State age law is untouched by any of it.
Minimum age in neighboring states
Next steps
Frequently asked questions
How old do you have to be to buy a handgun in New York?
21. New York: state law sets 21 to buy a handgun. Reviewed September 23, 2026.
What is the federal rule on minimum purchase age?
Federal law has two floors. A licensed dealer may sell a rifle or shotgun at 18, and 18 U.S.C. 922(b)(1) bars that dealer from selling any other firearm, which includes handguns and bare frames and receivers, to anyone under 21. On September 17, 2026 the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel concluded that the 21 rule is unconstitutional as applied to 18 to 20 year olds and cannot be criminally enforced against dealers. The statute, the ATF regulations and Form 4473 are all unchanged, ATF has issued no guidance, and the opinion expressly does not reach frames and receivers. State age law is untouched by any of it.
How many states restrict minimum purchase age?
Nationwide by our review: 27 states: 18 under state law; 6: mixed or disputed; 17: 21 under state law.
More New York gun laws
Legal disclaimer: This page summarizes state law for general information and is not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can be stricter. Confirm with the New York statutes, the state attorney general or a licensed attorney before buying, building or traveling.