Arkansas Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What kind of background check is required for purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Arkansas?

1. No background check is required

2. A state background check only

3. A federal NICS background check

4. Both state and federal background checks

The correct answer is: A federal NICS background check

When purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Arkansas, a federal NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) background check is mandatory. This federal requirement is in place to ensure that individuals prohibited from possessing firearms—due to factors such as felony convictions, restraining orders, or mental health adjudications—are not able to purchase firearms. While state laws can impose additional requirements, the federal NICS check is the baseline requirement across all states, including Arkansas, to evaluate the eligibility of the purchaser. It is essential for ensuring compliance with federal statutes regarding firearm ownership and helps to enhance the overall safety of firearm transactions. In the context of the other choices, stating that no background check is required overlooks the legal obligations under federal law. A state background check only or a combination of both state and federal checks would imply that the federal NICS check might not be necessary, which is not the case. The requirement for the NICS check remains the critical aspect of the firearms purchase process from licensed dealers.