How to Transfer a Handgun in Minnesota: A Complete Guide from Gun Permit Center

Transferring a handgun in Minnesota isn’t difficult, but it does require following specific legal steps. Whether you’re selling or buying, both parties have responsibilities to ensure the transfer is performed correctly, safely, and within Minnesota law.

At Gun Permit Center, we train thousands of Minnesotans in safe firearm ownership and legal compliance. This guide walks you through the entire handgun transfer process so you can be confident every step of the way.

Why Handgun Transfers Are Regulated in Minnesota

Minnesota law places strong emphasis on preventing unlawful handgun possession. While long guns have fewer requirements, handguns require the buyer to hold a valid permit and the seller to file a transfer report.

These requirements originate from Minnesota Statute 624.7132, which outlines:

  • What documents the buyer must have
  • What the seller must verify
  • How and when to submit a transfer report

The purpose is simple: ensure the buyer is legally eligible to own a handgun before the transfer is completed.

Permit to Purchase: What It Is and How It Works

A Permit to Purchase is issued by your local police chief or sheriff after a background check. It is:

  • Valid for one year
  • Approved or denied within 30 days
  • Proof the applicant is legally eligible to acquire a handgun

This permit is commonly used by individuals who want to purchase a handgun but are not interested in carrying it in public.

Permit to Carry: More Than Just Permission to Carry

A Minnesota Permit to Carry is the most comprehensive and versatile handgun permit you can have. Not only does it allow you to carry a handgun—open or concealed—it also qualifies you to purchase handguns without needing a separate Permit to Purchase.

A Permit to Carry includes:

  • State-approved training
  • A thorough background check
  • Five-year validity
  • The ability to purchase handguns immediately
  • Reciprocity benefits in many other states (currently 34)

This is the permit many Minnesota firearm owners ultimately choose because it offers far more freedom and flexibility.

Thinking About Getting Your Minnesota Permit to Carry?

Here’s Why Thousands Choose Gun Permit Center

If you’re considering getting your Permit to Carry so you can legally purchase or carry a handgun, Gun Permit Center makes the process simple, clear, and professional.

Students choose us because:

  • State-Approved Training: Our courses exceed Minnesota requirements.
  • Online + In-Person Options: Complete your classroom portion online at your own pace, then schedule the live-fire qualification with one of our certified instructors statewide.
  • Trusted by Law Enforcement, Business Owners & New Gun Owners: We’ve certified thousands across Minnesota.
  • Flexible Scheduling & Multiple Partner Ranges: Find a location near you
    👉 www.GunPermitCenter.com

Our mission is to help you train smart, understand the law, and carry with confidence.

If you need your Permit to Carry, start here: www.GunPermitCenter.com

Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring a Handgun in Minnesota

Here is the correct legal process for a private handgun transfer in Minnesota.

1. Verify the Buyer’s Permit

The seller must visually inspect a valid Permit to Purchase or Permit to Carry.

Check that:

  • It is valid (not expired)
  • The buyer’s ID matches the permit (valid & government issued)

Many sellers choose to save a copy for their records.

2. Confirm the Buyer’s Identification

Use a government-issued photo ID to confirm the buyer’s identity and match it to the permit presented.

3. Create a Bill of Sale (Recommended)

While not required, a bill of sale protects both parties. Include:

  • Buyer and seller information
  • Date of transfer
  • Handgun details (make, model, serial number)
  • Permit number provided by the buyer

This creates a clear record of the transaction.

4. Complete the Minnesota Transfer Report

Minnesota requires a transfer report for handgun transactions. This form is available from most local police departments or sheriff’s offices.

The report must include:

  • Buyer’s information
  • Seller’s information
  • Handgun details
  • Permit information

👉Private Party Record of Transfer Form

5. Submit the Transfer Report Within 48 Hours

The seller is responsible for submitting the completed report to local law enforcement within 48 hours of the transfer.

Failure to submit this report can result in criminal charges.

6. Complete the Transfer

Once everything is verified and the transfer report has been submitted, the seller may physically transfer the handgun to the buyer.

Penalties for Failing to Follow Minnesota’s Handgun Transfer Laws

Non-compliance may result in:

  • Fines
  • Misdemeanor or felony charges
  • Loss of firearm rights

Selling to someone without a valid permit—or failing to file the transfer report—is treated very seriously under Minnesota law.

Special Circumstances and Exemptions

Inheritance

Firearms passed through inheritance may be exempt from the normal permit requirement. However, estate and documentation rules still apply.

Law Enforcement Officers

Transfers to active law enforcement personnel may be exempt from certain requirements.

Federal Firearms License (FFL) Dealers

FFLs operate under federal guidelines and conduct their own background checks, which differ from private transfers.

Train Smart. Stay Legal. Carry With Confidence.

Understanding Minnesota handgun transfer laws protects your rights—and your future. If you’re planning to buy a handgun, or you want the freedom and protection a Permit to Carry offers, Gun Permit Center is your trusted Minnesota training partner.

Start today at www.GunPermitCenter.com.