Delaware state police issue advisory for delayed handgun purchases under new law

DOVER, DE – The Delaware State Police are advising residents that handgun purchases delayed by federal background checks and not finalized before November 16 must now comply with the state’s new permit-to-purchase law.

The State Bureau of Identification said the change affects any handgun transaction that received no “Proceed” response from the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) before that date.

Under Delaware law, a permit to purchase is now required to complete the transaction unless the buyer holds a valid Concealed Carry Deadly Weapon (CCDW) permit issued by the Superior Court.

Authorities said the FBI determines NICS timing and outcomes under federal law, and that pending background checks could no longer be processed under the previous system after the state’s new permit requirement took effect.

Key Points

Handgun purchases delayed by NICS and not completed before Nov. 16 now require a permit to purchase.
The rule applies unless the buyer holds a valid Delaware CCDW permit.
Applications can be filed online or at any Delaware State Police troop.

Guidance for affected firearm purchasers

The Delaware State Police are directing affected residents to apply through the state’s Permit to Purchase Portal. Step-by-step instructions and paper applications are available online and at all State Police troop locations.

For questions or assistance, the State Bureau of Identification helpline can be reached at (302) 741-2800 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.

Additional information, including eligibility requirements and application procedures, is available through the official Permit to Purchase website or by email at dsp_sbip2pmail@delaware.gov.

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