Weapon Permits

Iowa Weapon Permits - General Information

Weapon permit law changes that took effect July 1, 2021, remove the requirement for a permit to acquire or a permit to carry in order to purchase a handgun or carry a firearm in public places subject to certain limitations. Iowans may still obtain a Permit to Acquire Pistols and Revolvers or a Nonprofessional Permit to Carry Weapons by applying through the sheriff’s office in their county of residence.

Reasons why Iowans should still consider obtaining an Iowa permit to carry:

Allows Iowans to carry in states with permit reciprocity while traveling.
May prevent potential delays resulting from a delayed National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check when purchasing from an FFL.
May clarify any questions an individual has regarding their eligibility to carry or possess firearms.
May prevent legal issues associated with a person coming within 1,000 feet of the grounds of a public, parochial, or private school without a state issued permit in violation of the Gun Free School Zones Act, 18 USC § 921(a)(25) and 18 USC § 922(q)(2).

The Iowa Educator Professional Permit to Carry Weapons provides a specific authorization for school employees in Iowa to carry firearms on school grounds with the approval of their school district, private school, or institution of higher education and after completing all permit training requirements.

Iowa Code and DPS Administrative Rules

Chapter 724 of the Iowa Code and Administrative Rules, 661, Chapter 91 define Iowa’s weapon laws and the issuance of weapon permits in Iowa.

Iowa Code - Chapter 724 of the Iowa Code contains information on Iowa’s weapon laws and the issuance of weapon permits in Iowa.

Administrative Rules - Administrative Rules, 661, Chapter 91 contains information on Iowa’s weapon laws and the issuance of weapon permits in Iowa.