There’s a lot of talk about Idaho being one of the freest states in the nation, but what really makes Idaho so free? For residents, the freedom is palpable. For non-residents, it’s essential to understand that protecting our Constitutional rights to the 2nd amendment is extremely important to us.
“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” – 2nd Amendment
So let’s talk about guns, shall we?
For gun owners, Idaho is an amazing community for like-minded patriots. Of all 50 states, Idaho is tied with Arizona for the most gun-friendly state in the country!
In 2016, Idaho passed the “Constitutional Carry” law, which allows open and concealed carry of guns without having to prove training by a permit. Any resident of Idaho, who is 18 years or older can purchase shotguns, handguns, and rifles without a permit, as long as they are not federally restricted from having firearms (i.e. someone convicted of a felony). Cities and counties are prohibited by Idaho law to ban firearms on public property. There are some exceptions to that rule including courthouses, jails, prisons, and any public or private school of any grade level.
As a responsible armed American, it is important to understand our freedoms. Here are some of the Gun Freedoms we freely enjoy as Idahoans:
You do not need a gun permit
When purchasing a firearm from a private individual, permits are not required. There are no background checks, no waiting time, and no gun registration necessary. If you are purchasing a handgun from a federal firearms dealer, background checks are required. However, an Idaho Concealed Weapons License (CWL) exempts the holder from the federal requirement of a background check.
Idaho is a “Stand Your Ground” state
A person can defend themselves if an intruder unlawfully enters their home, vehicle, or place of business, without having to prove that they feared the intruder was going to cause death or bodily harm.
Where can you carry?
There are more places that allow you to carry than not. However, exceptions to this include private businesses that can post signs prohibiting firearms on their premises. If you are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is illegal to carry.
A person does NOT need to have a concealed weapons license to be in possession of a firearm if:
- It is located in plain sight
- Unloaded and concealed in a motor vehicle
- It is any lawfully possessed shotgun or rifle
- It is unloaded and in a secure case
- A firearm that is not readily operable
- A concealed handgun by a resident who is over 18 years of age
You can carry a gun in your car
Anyone 18 or older, who can legally possess a handgun can carry it in their vehicle without a permit.
At 21 you are able to obtain a gun license
Any resident 18 years of age can purchase and open-carry firearms. They are also able to carry a concealed weapon without a permit outside of city limits. To carry a concealed weapon within city limits without a permit you must be 21. Concealed carry licenses require a firearms training course or experience through organized shooting competition or military service. Idaho sells CWL to both residents and non-residents. To apply for a CWL, you must appear in person at the Sheriff’s office. The license is valid for 5 years.
In December 2019, Idaho became the least regulated state in the entire country, passing South Dakota. When Idaho Governor Brad Little took office in the beginning of 2019, there were 736 chapters of regulations and 82,000 pages. Those were reduced or eliminated by 75% with page numbers reduced by over 1,800. Little said that some of the cuts were silly rules that didn’t make sense anymore. In contrast with Idaho, California is in last place for regulations, with 10 times more restrictions than Idaho.
In terms of freedom, the year 2020 has been a rollercoaster for most of the world. But for the Treasure Valley, 2020 has been the year that the city of Star declared itself a Sanctuary City for the 2nd Amendment, the resolution passing unanimously in less than two minutes. Neighboring city, Eagle soon followed suit.
Welcome to Idaho, folks: THE LAND OF THE FREE & THE HOME OF THE BRAVE.
Also known as: #AMERICA
