Vermont Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Who is required to undergo a background check before purchasing a firearm in Vermont?

1. Only non-residents

2. Only residents

3. Everyone, including private sales

4. Only those purchasing from a licensed dealer

The correct answer is: Only those purchasing from a licensed dealer

The requirement for a background check before purchasing a firearm in Vermont primarily focuses on transactions conducted through licensed dealers. Under federal law, any individual purchasing a firearm from a federally licensed dealer must undergo a background check as part of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) process. This ensures that the individual is not prohibited from owning a firearm due to felony convictions, domestic violence charges, or other disqualifying factors. In Vermont specifically, while private sales are allowed without mandatory background checks, purchasing from a licensed dealer categorically requires this check. Thus, the correct choice highlights the legal framework surrounding firearm purchases from licensed dealers, where the background check serves as a protective measure for public safety.