How to Sell a Gun in Maine

Identification Requirements

In Maine, private sellers are not required to conduct universal background checks or maintain any records for the sale, however identification is recommended if you wish to maintain a record of the transaction.

Waiting Periods

Maine has no law imposing a waiting period prior to purchase of a firearm.

Age requirements

In Maine, it is illegal to knowingly transfer a handgun to anyone under 18, and only parents, guardians, or other approved adults can sell or transfer long guns to minors under 16. Selling long guns to those aged 16 to 18 is restricted to parents, guardians, or approved adults, although this doesn't apply to transfers.

Background Checks in Private Sales

Maine does not require background checks for private firearm transactions, and there are no specific state laws governing the conduct of such sales. A 2016 ballot initiative proposing to expand background checks for private firearms sales was rejected by voters and not enacted into law.

Ineligible Persons

Maine prohibits several different categories of individuals from owning or possessing firearms:

• Persons convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for one year or more (including juveniles) can’t have guns.
• Five years after being discharged from prison or probation, a felon can apply for a permit to carry a firearm. However, that person can’t be given a concealed weapon permit.
• A person who’s been involuntarily committed to a psychiatrist hospital, found not criminally responsible because insane, or not competent to stand trial also can’t have a gun.