What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun? Commonly cited 11 states where some felons may regain gun rights (after sentence completion, rights restoration, or waiting periods) are:
Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania
It can be hard to understand your rights when it comes to owning a gun after a felony. In the U.S., laws are very different from one state to the next. This means that it’s important to know the rules that change your gun rights after a felony.
Some states have laws that make it easier for felons to own guns. This makes me wonder: which states let felons own guns? This information can have a big impact on your life and the lives of those around you.
It’s important to know both federal and state gun laws. This information will help you make good decisions about your future.
Contents
- 1 Federal Gun Laws and Felon Restrictions
- 2 What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?
- 3 Identifying the 11 States
- 4 Restoration of Gun Rights for Felons
- 5 Rights and Responsibilities After Restoration
- 6 What it means to own a gun
- 7 Conclusion
- 8 FAQ
- 8.1 What are the federal laws regarding felon gun ownership?
- 8.2 Can a felon own a gun in any state?
- 8.3 What 11 states allow felons to own guns?
- 8.4 How can a felon restore their gun rights?
- 8.5 Are there any responsibilities that come with regaining gun ownership rights?
- 8.6 Can a felon’s gun rights be restored automatically?
Federal Gun Laws and Felon Restrictions
Felons need to know about the laws that govern guns in the United States. These laws say who can own guns, and that includes people who have been convicted of a crime.
Felons Can’t Own Guns
It is hard for felons to own guns because of federal law. The Gun Control Act of 1968 says that people who have been convicted of a crime can’t own guns. This rule is the same in all states, but some states have their own rules as well.
Under federal law, you can’t own a gun even after you’ve served your time. The main idea is to keep criminals from getting guns, but the rules can change.
Keep in mind that federal law is just a starting point; states can make their own rules. Some states may allow felons to possess firearms under specific circumstances. But federal laws still apply.
You should look at both federal and state laws if you are a felon and want to know about gun rights. A lawyer can help you based on your situation and the laws in your state.
Knowing these rules can help you stay out of trouble with the law. As a felon, knowing your rights and the rules about owning guns can help you make decisions.
What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?
The laws about gun ownership for felons are very different in each state. Felons need to know these laws so they know what they can and can’t do.
In the U.S., gun laws are very complicated. There are different rules in each state about who can have a gun. These rules are often stricter for people who have been convicted of a crime. Some states, however, do let felons own guns as long as certain conditions are met.
Identifying the 11 States
Commonly cited 11 states where some felons may regain gun rights (after sentence completion, rights restoration, or waiting periods) are:
Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania
You might be curious about which states allow felons to possess firearms. Federal law says that felons can’t have guns, but some states are more lenient. If certain conditions are met, they may let felons own guns.
Let’s look at the 11 states where people who have been convicted of a crime can own guns. Keep in mind that there are usually rules or waiting times in these states.
Some states let felons own guns if their conviction is overturned or they get a pardon. Some states may wait a while after a sentence is over before giving back gun rights.
You need to know the laws in your state. You should check the laws and talk to a lawyer to get the most up-to-date information. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]
Keep in mind that having a gun is a big responsibility. It’s important for your safety and the safety of others to make sure you follow all the rules.
Restoration of Gun Rights for Felons
Different states have different ways for felons to get their gun rights back. If you want to own a gun again and you have a felony record, you need to know the laws in your area.
You will probably have to go through the courts to get your gun rights back. This could mean going to court or following a state’s own rules. First, find out what the laws are in your state about guns and felons.

You might have to finish your sentence and wait a little while to get your rights back. You also need to prove that you’ve been good and aren’t a threat to others. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]
Filing a petition with the court or using a state’s process are the usual legal steps. It’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer who knows how to get your gun rights back. They can help you figure out what to do.
To get your gun rights back, you need to know what the law says and what you need. If you do the right things and meet the requirements, you can own a gun again.
Rights and Responsibilities After Restoration
It’s important to know what you can and can’t do after getting your gun rights back. You should know the gun laws in your state. These laws can change a lot. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]
You can legally own and use guns for things like hunting or protecting yourself. But you have to keep your guns safe. They shouldn’t be able to get to them, like kids or people who shouldn’t have them.
What it means to own a gun
You need to know all the gun laws and follow them. This means buying, keeping, and using guns. Check that your guns work well and aren’t used for bad things.
Be smart and careful when you use guns, too. Always wear safety gear, like ear and eye protection. When you shoot, pay attention to what’s going on around you.
Conclusion
You now know that some states let people with felonies own guns if they follow certain rules. Laws in 11 states let felons own guns. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]
This can happen by giving them back their gun rights or by making exceptions just for them. If you have a felony record, it’s important to know the laws in your state and any other places you might go or live.
Getting your gun rights back is a big part of this. You should know how to ask a court to give you back your rights. This could mean waiting a while or following some state rules. It’s not enough to just know which 11 states let felons own guns. You also need to know how to store and handle guns safely.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you make smart decisions about having guns. With this information, you can handle the complicated world of gun laws. It makes sure you follow the rules of both the federal and state governments.
See Also: Can a Felon Own a Pellet Gun? State Rules Vary
FAQ
What are the federal laws regarding felon gun ownership?
Federal law says felons can’t have guns, except in some cases. This includes if their conviction was erased or their rights were given back. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]
Can a felon own a gun in any state?
Federal law limits felon gun ownership, but some states have different rules. You should look at your state’s laws to see if felons can own guns.
What 11 states allow felons to own guns?
Laws about felon gun ownership vary by state. Some states are more lenient, but the exact list of 11 states might change based on the source.
How can a felon restore their gun rights?
To get gun rights back, felons must meet certain legal requirements. This can involve asking a court or getting a pardon. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]
Are there any responsibilities that come with regaining gun ownership rights?
Yes, once gun rights are restored, felons must use their rights wisely. This means following all gun laws and keeping guns safely stored.
Can a felon’s gun rights be restored automatically?
Usually, no. Getting gun rights back often requires action, like asking a court or waiting a certain time. [What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?]

Van Maldonado, born in California, holds a degree in Criminology and Police Science. Currently serving as an investigative officer at a local police station, he spends his leisure time writing insightful content for FelonScope.com.