State of Delaware
Current News
August 7, 2019 - Gun Control in Delaware. Several factors would seem to make conditions in Delaware ripe for gun control.
So why does Delaware stand in such sharp contrast to other heavily Democratic East Coast states, including its neighbor Maryland?
An ambitious attempt to place new restrictions on firearms went up in flames earlier this year, sparking outrage on both sides of the issue.
Nationally, gun control polls well with Democrats and independents, and at the state level, an April survey from Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund and Moms Demand Action reported broad support for three controversial gun bills in the General Assembly.
According to the poll, at least 70 percent of respondents supported measures to ban magazines capable of holding more than 15 rounds, create a permitting process to obtain a firearm and prohibit dozens of guns classified as "assault weapons."
The Delaware Democratic Party platform calls for "common sense gun safety measures," but Democrats, who control the governors office and both chambers of the General Assembly, killed the legislation.
State Requirements
CCW Handgun License
Delaware is a "May Issue" State
Must be at least 18 years old.
Complete a firearms training course.
Have five references from the county you reside in. The references shall clearly state that the applicant is a person of full age, sobriety and good moral character, that the applicant bears a good reputation for peace and good order in the community in which the applicant resides, and that the carrying of a concealed deadly weapon by the applicant is necessary for the protection of the applicant or the applicant’s property, or both.
Have never been convicted in Delaware or elsewhere of a felony or a crime of violence.
If under 25 years old have never been, as a juvenile, adjudicated as delinquent for conduct which, if committed by an adult, would constitute a felony.
Have never been convicted for the unlawful use, possession, or sale of a narcotic, dangerous drug, or central nervous system depressant or stimulant.
You are not subject to a Protection From Abuse Order issued by a court.
Have never been committed for a mental disorder to any hospital, mental institution, or sanitarium.
Vehicle Carry
YES/NO – Without a Permit/License
It is a felony to carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle without a permit/license. However, you can still legally carry the firearm in a vehicle if it is in plain site such as on the dash or seat, do not put it in the glove box or any place it cannot be seen. If you have a permit/license then you may carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle.
Open Carry
YES – Without a Permit/License
Open carrying a handgun without a permit/license in Delaware is legal but not common. The minimum age is 18 years old.
Must Notify Officer
NO – Must Inform Officer on Contact By Law
There is nothing in Delaware gun laws that state you must inform a law enforcement officer you have a firearm when approached on official business. The law does not state you need to carry a permit/license either. However, we always recommend that you carry the permit, together with photo ID, at all times during which you are in actual possession of a concealed handgun.
Check your State
Legislation varies from State to State, so it is best to always check the State Laws pertaining to handguns before traveling to or through that particular State.
Click the link below to familiarize yourself with the basic legislation for each State in regards to Vehicle Carry, Open Carry, and Requirement to Inform Officers.
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