NC Law requires a purchase permit issued by the Sheriff of the county where you reside for an individual to purchase a handgun from a gun dealer.
Weapons Purchase Permits are available from the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office for a $5.00 processing fee each. The application process generally takes 10-15 minutes to complete and issued permits are valid for the purchase of one handgun or crossbow each or the duration of 5 years, whichever occurs first. Purchase Permits can be used for long gun purchases but are not required by law.
To apply for a permit, you must appear in person at the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office during normal business hours to complete the application. Please bring with you a current Driver License or ID Card issued by the State of NC and $5.00 cash for each permit you wish to buy. A maximum of 4 permits may be purchased per individual per day.
If you plan to purchase a permit outside normal office hours (M-F 8am-5pm) you may have an extended wait time as officers may be busy with other duties. You may call ahead to 828-632-4658 to see if an officer is currently available.
NOTE: On August 11th, 2004, the Governor signed into law that citizens with a CCW (Concealed Carry Weapons Permit) can purchase handguns through dealers, using their CCW. It is no longer necessary for these citizens, who have already been approved to carry a concealed weapon and have been fingerprinted, to come to the Sheriff’s Office to obtain a Pistol Purchase Permit.