Gun Permits

A permit is required to acquire a pistol from a federal firearms dealer in Minnesota. Applications for this permit must be submitted in the City where you reside, or with the County Sheriff if your area does not have a local police department. Residents within the City limits of Hastings may apply for a permit through the Hastings Police Department.

The application process typically includes completing required forms, providing identification and undergoing a background check. Processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications and agency procedures.

If you already possess a valid Minnesota permit to carry, you do not need to apply for a separate permit to purchase a firearm, as a carry permit also serves as a valid permit to purchase.

It’s important to note that all firearms transactions must comply with state and federal laws, including restrictions on age, criminal history and prohibited persons. For more information, contact the Hastings Police Department.

Permit to Purchase

To apply, complete the Minnesota Uniform Firearm Application/Receipt Permit to Purchase/Transfer. Applications are also available at the Police Department.

Submit the application and a color copy of your driver's license in person to the Hastings Police Department, 150 3rd St. E, Hastings MN 55033. Your driver's license must reflect your current home address. An incomplete application will be denied.

A person who is otherwise ineligible for a permit due to a criminal conviction but who has obtained a pardon or expungement setting aside the conviction, sealing the conviction or otherwise restoring applicable rights, must submit a copy of the relevant order when applying.

Our agency will conduct a series of background-related checks to ensure you meet eligibility requirements established in State law. Once the background checks are completed, either a denial letter or the permit will be mailed to you.

There is no fee for the permit or to apply for a permit to purchase.

Please all 30 days for processing of your application.

Permit to Carry

Residents of Dakota County can apply for a permit to carry at the Dakota County Sheriff's Office. For more information call 651-438-4700.

Law Enforcement Center, 1580 Highway 55, Hastings, MN 55033
Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley, MN 55124
- Located in main atrium next to the elevator.

Permit to Carry Reciprocity

Under Minnesota Law, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is required to publish a list of states which have handgun carry permit laws that are not similar to Minnesota's permit-to-carry law.

Private Party Transfer

Use the Private Party Transfer Form when transferring a pistol or semiautomatic military-style assault weapon between two private parties without a federal firearms dealer. Both parties complete this form and keep it for 10 years, along with a copy of both the seller’s and the buyer’s identification, a copy of the transferee’s permit and a description of the gun, including the serial number.

MN Statutes, section 624.712, subdivision 8, requires the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) to publish annually a list of firearms included within the definition of "semiautomatic military-style weapon."

Straw Purchase

The illegal purchase of a firearm for someone else is also known as a “straw purchase.” This is a federal felony, carries a sentence of up to 15 years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.

View more information by visiting the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Contact Us

Phone: 651-480-2350

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