West Virginia Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What type of background check is required for a handgun purchase in West Virginia?

1. No background check is required

2. Federal background check only

3. State and federal background checks

4. Background check by the local sheriff

The correct answer is: State and federal background checks

In West Virginia, purchasing a handgun typically requires a federal background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This process is a crucial part of ensuring that individuals who purchase firearms are legally eligible to do so, as it screens for disqualifying factors such as felony convictions, restraining orders, or mental health adjudications. In addition to the federal background check, some circumstances may necessitate additional layers of verification or compliance with state-specific regulations. This may include the need for purchasers to comply with certain state laws that could involve local requirements, contributing to the necessity of having a thorough review of both state and federal criteria. Thus, the requirement for both state and federal background checks, in conjunction with specific circumstances, underscores the comprehensive approach to firearm purchasing regulations aimed at promoting public safety.