Rhode Island Gun Laws 2026

Purchasing a Firearm in Rhode Island

Rhode Island requires safety course required for handguns to purchase firearms. Buyers must be at least 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns) and 21 for handguns when purchasing from a licensed dealer, in accordance with federal law. All buyers must be able to pass a background check and must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law.

Rhode Island requires background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions between individuals. This universal background check requirement means that even sales at gun shows between private parties must go through a licensed dealer or state-run system. This is one of the more comprehensive background check requirements in the country.

Rhode Island imposes a 7-day waiting period on firearm purchases. After completing the background check, the buyer must wait 7 days before taking possession of the firearm. Some exemptions may apply, such as for current concealed carry permit holders, law enforcement, or in cases of documented threats.

Concealed Carry in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has a permit-based concealed carry system. Rhode Island requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry a concealed handgun in public. The state operates a shall-issue system, meaning the issuing authority must grant the permit if the applicant meets all legal requirements. There is no discretionary denial. Requirements typically include minimum age, background check, and in some cases a firearms safety training course.

Concealed carry permit holders (where applicable) should be aware of restricted locations where carry is prohibited regardless of permit status. These typically include federal buildings, courthouses, schools and school zones, polling places on election day, and any private property where firearms are prohibited by the owner. Posted signage requirements vary by state — in Rhode Island, always look for posted signs at building entrances.

Open Carry Laws

Open carry of firearms is legal in Rhode Island. A permit may be required in certain areas. Open carry refers to carrying a firearm in a manner that is visible to others, such as in a belt holster. While legal at the state level, some municipalities or specific locations (government buildings, schools, courthouses) may restrict open carry. It is important to be aware of local ordinances and posted signage.

Assault Weapons and Magazine Restrictions

Rhode Island has enacted an assault weapons ban. Certain semi-automatic firearms with specific features are classified as assault weapons and are prohibited from sale, transfer, and in some cases possession. The specific definition of "assault weapon" varies — generally it includes semi-automatic rifles and pistols with detachable magazines and one or more military-style features such as a pistol grip, folding stock, or threaded barrel. Firearms lawfully owned before the ban may be grandfathered depending on the state's specific law.

Rhode Island limits magazine capacity to 10 rounds. Magazines that can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition are prohibited from sale and, in some cases, possession. Magazines lawfully owned before the restriction took effect may be grandfathered. This applies to both handgun and rifle magazines.

Red Flag Law

Rhode Island has enacted a red flag law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. This allows family members, law enforcement, or in some states other designated individuals to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from a person who is deemed to be a danger to themselves or others. The process involves a hearing, and the subject has the right to contest the order. If granted, firearms are temporarily confiscated and the individual is prohibited from purchasing new firearms for the duration of the order, typically 6-12 months.

Gun Show Regulations in Rhode Island

Gun shows in Rhode Island follow the same laws that apply to all firearm sales. Licensed dealers (FFLs) at gun shows must conduct background checks on all purchases, just as they would at their retail location. All sales at gun shows, including private sales between individuals, require a background check under state law. Gun shows typically require all firearms brought in for sale to be unloaded and secured with cable ties or similar safety devices. Individual show promoters may set additional rules.

FFL Transfer Rules

When purchasing a firearm online, the firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Rhode Island for the transfer. The buyer then completes the standard Form 4473 and background check at the FFL's location. FFL transfer fees in Rhode Island typically range from $20 to $75 per firearm. Use our FFL dealer directory to find transfer-friendly dealers near you.

Key Considerations for Rhode Island Residents

Rhode Island maintains a permit-based system for concealed carry, balancing Second Amendment rights with regulatory oversight. Gun owners should stay informed of any legislative changes, as firearms laws are frequently updated. The information on this page reflects the law as of 2026, but laws can change at any time. Always consult the full text of current state statutes or a licensed attorney in Rhode Island before making legal decisions based on this guide.

For more information on firearms in Rhode Island, visit our FFL dealer directory for Rhode Island, browse upcoming gun shows in Rhode Island, or check the concealed carry reciprocity map to see which states honor Rhode Island's carry permits.