Vermont Gun Laws 2026 — Complete Guide
Vermont firearms laws govern how residents and visitors may purchase, possess, carry, and use firearms within the state. This guide covers the most important aspects of Vermont gun laws as of 2026, including purchase requirements, carry permits, waiting periods, and self-defense statutes. Always consult official state statutes and legal counsel for binding legal guidance.
Purchasing Firearms in Vermont
Permit to purchase: No permit required. Vermont does not require a separate state-level permit to purchase firearms beyond the standard federal requirements. Buyers must be at least 21 years old for handguns and 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns). All purchases through licensed FFL dealers require a federal NICS background check.
Background checks: Universal background checks for private sales (2018). When you purchase a firearm on WeaponDepot, it ships to your chosen FFL dealer in Vermont who handles all required paperwork and background check processing.
Waiting period: 72-hour waiting period (2023).
Carrying Firearms in Vermont
Open carry: Legal without a permit.
Concealed carry: Permitless carry (original constitutional carry state). Vermont operates under constitutional carry. As a constitutional carry state, Vermont allows eligible residents to carry a concealed firearm without obtaining a government-issued permit. However, optional permits remain available for reciprocity with other states.
Restrictions & Prohibited Items
Universal background checks, magazine limits (10 rounds rifle, 15 rounds handgun), bump stock ban, 72-hour waiting period. Federal restrictions on NFA items (short-barreled rifles, suppressors, machine guns) still apply and require ATF approval through the appropriate tax stamp process.
Self-Defense Laws
Vermont follows the duty-to-retreat doctrine, which generally requires individuals to retreat if safely possible before using deadly force in public. The state also provides Castle Doctrine protections, protecting individuals who use force against intruders in their home, vehicle, or place of business.
Red Flag Laws & Preemption
Vermont has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order). This law allows law enforcement or family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. Additionally, Vermont allows local municipalities to enact their own firearms regulations.
Buying Online & FFL Transfers in Vermont
Federal and state rules can affect an online firearm purchase and its transfer. Confirm the receiving dealer's requirements, availability, and fees before placing an order. Use our FFL dealer directory for Vermont to find local businesses and contact them directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Vermont?
- No permit required. No state-level purchase permit is required. All FFL purchases require a federal background check.
- Is concealed carry legal in Vermont?
- Permitless carry (original constitutional carry state). Vermont is a constitutional carry state.
- Does Vermont have a waiting period?
- 72-hour waiting period (2023).
- Does Vermont have a red flag law?
- Vermont has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order).
- Where can I find FFL dealers in Vermont?
- Visit our FFL dealer directory for Vermont to find local businesses and contact them about transfer services and fees.
Source, Editorial Status & Scope
Dataset maintained by: WeaponDepot Editorial. Last recorded editorial update: 2026-05-01. No named individual reviewer or professional credentials are recorded, so this page does not claim professional review. This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Laws, agency guidance, local ordinances, and court decisions can change.
Change history: No itemized change note is recorded for this revision.