Gun laws vary significantly from one state to another. Some states have established strict firearm possession regulations and registration procedures. Other states, including the state of Alabama, maintain relatively lax gun laws. Alabama gun laws do not require an individual to obtain a permit in order to purchase a shotgun, rifle, or handgun.
In addition, an individual does not need to register his/her firearm in the state of Alabama and he/she does not need a license to possess the firearm. If an individual wants to carry his/her shotgun or rifle, he/she does not need a permit to do so. However, an individual will require a permit to carry a handgun. Alabama law prohibits individuals from giving or selling a handgun to a minor who is under the age of 18. It is also illegal to sell a firearm to an individual who is a convicted criminal, a heavy drinker, a drug user, or who is mentally unfit to carry a firearm.