Iowa Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

To legally acquire a handgun in Iowa, what must residents have?

1. A driver's license

2. A Permit to Acquire or a Permit to Carry

3. Proof of Iowa residency for at least 6 months

4. A background in law enforcement

The correct answer is: A Permit to Acquire or a Permit to Carry

To legally acquire a handgun in Iowa, residents are required to possess a Permit to Acquire or a Permit to Carry. This regulation ensures that individuals who wish to purchase handguns have undergone a background check and have met the necessary requirements set by state law. The permits entail an application process that includes fingerprinting, a criminal history check, and may also require completion of a training course, emphasizing the importance of safety and responsibility when handling firearms. In this context, other options do not fulfill the legal requirements for handgun acquisition in Iowa. While having a driver's license can serve as identification, it does not replace the need for a specific permit. Proof of Iowa residency is not mandated for a minimum duration before purchasing a handgun; rather, the focus is on the permits themselves. Similarly, possession of a background in law enforcement, although may provide insight into firearm handling, is not a legal prerequisite for acquiring a handgun in Iowa.