State Gun Laws

It might not be legal for a person to carry a gun, even if it is legal for them to own one. In Iowa, a person cannot carry a gun if they:

1. are illegally in possession of a controlled substance;
2. are in the process of committing a crime; or
3. don’t qualify for a permit to carry a gun.¹

Even though a permit to carry a gun is optional in Iowa, a person can carry a gun only if they meet the permit requirements.² This is true even if the person doesn’t actually apply for one. The permit requirements are that they:

• are 18 or older;
• are not addicted to alcohol;
• have not been convicted of any serious or aggravated misdemeanor defined in chapter 708 of the Iowa Code within the last three years;
• have not been convicted of a felony;
• have not been “adjudicated delinquent” as a minor for actions that would be a felony if committed by an adult;
• are not prohibited from having a gun under federal or state law; and
• have not done something specific within the last two years that shows “probable cause” that they are likely to use a weapon unlawfully, or likely to harm themselves or others. Note: The person’s actions must be documented.¹

If any of these situations apply to the abuser, it may be illegal for them to carry a gun.

¹ Iowa Code §§ 724.8B; 724.8; see also Iowa Department of Public Safety website
² Iowa Code § 724.8B