Iowa has enacted laws allowing residents to carry handguns without a permit, introducing what is known as “constitutional carry.” This significant change, set in motion when Gov. Kim Reynolds signed House File 756 in 2021, enables Iowans to openly or concealed carry handguns, with the age for ownership now lowered to 18 years under recent legislation. However, individuals under 21 are still unable to purchase handguns from federally licensed dealers, indicating a nuanced legal landscape for gun owners in the state.
As interest in gun ownership rises—with nearly a third of U.S. citizens reporting they own a firearm—knowing the specifics of state laws becomes increasingly essential. In total, Iowa joins 28 states that allow permitless carry, but residents should remember that traveling with a handgun means adhering to other states’ laws, which can vary significantly. Currently, 10 states recognize Iowa handgun permits, emphasizing the need for awareness when carrying firearms outside of Iowa’s borders.
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