I'm looking into purchasing a pistol in Ohio and I'm a bit unclear on the legal requirements. Specifically, I'm wondering if a permit is necessary to buy a pistol in Ohio. Could anyone shed some light on this, perhaps outlining the process or any specific regulations I should be aware of? Any information on this would be greatly appreciated!
Ohio Pistol Purchase: Permit Required?
Handguns • Asked 2 months ago by sevikad
sevikad
Oct 14, 2025
oliver
Dec 03, 2025
Hey there!
It's a great question, and it's definitely smart to get clear on the legalities before making a purchase. In Ohio, you generally *don't* need a specific permit to purchase a pistol. The process is pretty straightforward for most citizens.
When you go to a licensed firearms dealer (FFL), you'll fill out a federal Form 4473, which involves a background check (NICS check). Assuming you pass that check and meet all other legal requirements (like being 21 or older for a handgun purchase from an FFL), you should be able to complete the purchase.
However, it's always a good idea to be aware of all state and federal laws, including those related to carrying a concealed weapon if that's something you're considering down the line. For just purchasing, though, no permit is typically required in Ohio.
Hope this helps clarify things for you!
