Wisconsin Gun Laws 2026

Purchasing a Firearm in Wisconsin

Wisconsin does not require a special permit or license to purchase a firearm. 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.

Wisconsin 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.

Wisconsin imposes a 2-day waiting period on firearm purchases. After completing the background check, the buyer must wait 2 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 Wisconsin

Wisconsin has a permit-based concealed carry system. Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin, always look for posted signs at building entrances.

Open Carry Laws

Open carry of firearms is legal in Wisconsin. No permit is required to openly carry a firearm. 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

Wisconsin does not have an assault weapons ban. Semi-automatic firearms of all types may be legally purchased, possessed, and carried (subject to general firearms laws). There are no state-level restrictions on specific firearm features such as pistol grips, adjustable stocks, or flash suppressors.

Wisconsin does not restrict magazine capacity. There are no limits on the number of rounds a magazine may hold. Standard-capacity and high-capacity magazines of any size may be legally purchased and possessed.

Red Flag Law

Wisconsin does not have a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order). There is no legal mechanism for family members or law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from an individual based on perceived risk. Firearms may only be seized through standard criminal proceedings or existing mental health commitment processes.

Gun Show Regulations in Wisconsin

Gun shows in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin for the transfer. The buyer then completes the standard Form 4473 and background check at the FFL's location. FFL transfer fees in Wisconsin typically range from $20 to $75 per firearm. Use our FFL dealer directory to find transfer-friendly dealers near you.

Key Considerations for Wisconsin Residents

Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin before making legal decisions based on this guide.

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