More information on Federal Firearm Licensees (FFL), as well as what each license type can do, can be found on our FFL home page.
We also have a very helpful
FFL search tool if you want to search by postal code, state, business name, or even license number.
Does Iowa Require a Background Check to purchase a Firearm?
No, Iowa does not have a state law that requires a background check prior to the sale of a firearm,
but federal law requires all federally licensed firearm dealers to perform a background check before any sale of a firearm.
A background check is not necessary but an optional requirement since 2021. Handgun purchases can escape the background check if they purchase a handgun from a private seller.
Owning a firearm in Iowa
Does Iowa have a Gun Free Zone law?
Yes, Iowa has a defined list of gun free zones:
Open carry in State Capitol building and grounds is prohibited (except for the peacekeeper officers)
Concealed carry is allowed within the walls of state capitol
State parks
Parking garages
Hospital
Places of worship
Bars/ Restaurants
Does Iowa Require a Safety Course to own a Firearm?
Yes, you are required to take a safety course prior to owning a firearm in Iowa.
A 4hr safety course which will help students learn the basics of how to handle a firearm. Some of the requirements are that the students must bring a reliable weapon and at least 150 rounds of ammunition. The cost of the course is $90 for each student.
Common Firearm Offenses in Iowa
[IA Code ¤ 701.8 Misdemeanor defined and classified] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-701/section-701-8/)
[IA Code ¤ 724.3 Unauthorized possession of offensive weapons] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-724/section-724-3/)
[IA Code ¤ 724.4 Use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-724/section-724-4/)
[IA Code ¤ 724.4B Carrying firearms on school grounds] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-724/section-724-4b/)
[IA Code ¤ 724.4C Possession or carrying of dangerous weapons while under the influence] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-724/section-724-4c/)
[IA Code ¤ 724.4E Possession of dangerous weapons and loaded firearms by minors] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-724/section-724-4e/)
[IA Code ¤ 724.16 Prohibited transfers of firearms] (https://law.justia.com/codes/iowa/2022/title-xvi/chapter-724/section-724-16/)