Maryland Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

The minimum age to purchase a handgun in Maryland is 21 years old. This requirement aligns with both state and federal laws that aim to regulate firearm sales and enhance public safety. The age restriction reflects a broader understanding that individuals under a certain age may not possess the maturity or experience necessary for responsible firearm ownership and usage.

While federal law sets the minimum age to purchase firearms from licensed dealers at 21 for handguns, some states, including Maryland, adhere to this standard strictly, thereby reinforcing it at the state level. This regulation ensures that only adults who have reached this age threshold can engage in the purchase of handguns. In contrast, the minimum age for purchasing long guns (rifles and shotguns) in Maryland is lower at 18 years, but this does not apply to handguns, which have a higher age requirement for purchasing.