Gun Show Rules: What You Can and Can't Do
Gun shows operate under a mix of federal, state, and local laws. Here's what you need to know about the rules that govern these events.
Federal Rules
The ATF regulates all gun shows at the federal level:
- Licensed dealers (FFLs) must run a NICS background check on every sale
- ATF Form 4473 must be completed for every FFL transaction
- Interstate sales of handguns are prohibited (long guns may cross state lines under federal law)
- Straw purchases are a federal felony
The "Gun Show Loophole"
You may have heard this term in the media. Here's what it actually means:
Federal law requires background checks only when the seller is a licensed dealer (FFL). Private individuals who are not "in the business" of selling firearms may sell from their personal collection without a background check in many states. This applies everywhere — not just gun shows.
However, many states have closed this gap with universal background check laws that require checks on all sales, including private transactions at gun shows.
State-Specific Rules
Rules vary significantly by state. For example:
- California, New York, Colorado: Universal background checks required
- Texas, Georgia, Arizona: No background check required for private sales
- Virginia: Universal background checks required since 2020
Check our state gun law guides for specific rules in your state.
Venue Rules
Individual show promoters may set additional rules:
- No loaded firearms on the show floor
- Cable ties or zip ties on all firearms brought in for sale
- Designated areas for ammunition testing
- Age restrictions for unaccompanied minors