North Dakota Gun Laws

Constitutional carry. No magazine limit. Castle doctrine and stand your ground.

Last reviewed against official sources on 2026-09-25. Official state source.

North Dakota allows constitutional carry for adults 18+. The state has both castle doctrine and stand your ground protections. No magazine limits, assault weapon bans, or waiting periods exist.

Key facts

• Concealed Carry: Constitutional carry — no permit required for adults 18+ (N.D.C.C. § 62.1-04-02)
• Open Carry: Permitted without a permit (N.D.C.C. § 62.1-03-01)
• Permit to Purchase: Not required
• Assault Weapon Ban: No ban
• Magazine Limit: No limit
• Waiting Period: None
• Universal Background Check: Not required for private sales
• Red Flag Law (ERPO): No state ERPO law
• Castle Doctrine: Yes (N.D.C.C. § 12.1-05-07.1)
• Stand Your Ground: Yes (N.D.C.C. § 12.1-05-07)
• Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Honors permits from ~39 states with a reciprocity agreement (North Dakota Attorney General — Reciprocity)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to carry in North Dakota?

No. North Dakota is a constitutional carry state. Adults 18 and older may carry concealed or openly without a permit.

Does North Dakota require background checks for private sales?

No. Private firearm sales in North Dakota do not require a background check.

Does North Dakota have a waiting period?

No. North Dakota does not impose a waiting period for firearm purchases.

Does North Dakota have a red flag law?

No. North Dakota has not enacted an extreme risk protection order law.

Does North Dakota recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

Yes, broadly — North Dakota has reciprocity agreements with roughly 39 other states. Check the North Dakota Attorney General's current list before relying on an out-of-state permit here, since it does change.

Not legal advice. Laws change; verify with official sources.