Can a firearm be registered in two names? Is it possible to register a firearm in two names?

When & why would you want to do this? Is registration handled by the Fed or State & what about NFA or Class III guns?

The Question at Hand

Registration regulations change depending on which state you live in. A question was brought up the other day that posed an interesting discussion. Can my wife register for the same gun that I am registered to? This is a dilemma that I had not previously considered, but it does bring to light a topic that those who are in the process of marrying may need to consider. There are loads of documents that need to get in order for the name change, will change, and setting up a future when getting married. But is it possible for two people to be registered to one gun?

Colt by mwewering from Pixabay

Registration of Firearm

The first part we need to look into is registration. If you are new to owning a firearm, registration can seem like a hazy topic. The reason why there may be confusion regarding registration of a firearm is because different states have different registration requirements.

Let’s look at the registration requirements in each state:

Should you be Aware of Dual Ownership?

Some states choose to have registration requirements. Registering your firearms can be a hassle, but the thought is that having a registration system in place could potentially help minimize illegal gun activity while encouraging responsible gun practices.

If you are one of the lucky states that does not require firearm registration, then this whole article does not pertain to you. You do not have to concern yourself with dual gun registration seeing as registration is not a requirement.

There are some individuals who are legally not allowed to own a firearm and sharing ownership is illegal, regardless of registration regulations. If you are considering sharing your gun, consider the difference between ownership and possession of a firearm.

Guns by premiumadz13 from Pixabay

Owning a Firearm

Consider ownership of your firearm as the same as owning and buying your property: Yes, there are still home ownership laws that must be followed, but the land is your and the property is yours. Possession is more like renting. You are in possession of the place, but it is not yours and there are even other rules and regulations for renting.

Ownership vs possession is similar for firearms: You are most likely looking to allow someone possession of your firearm opposed to giving over the ownership. There are regulations you will need to comply with if you are in a state without registrations, but still are looking to let someone else take possession of your gun.

Class III firearms are a whole different matter: If you are in possession of a class three firearm/title two firearms, do your research and handle that responsibility with care.

State with Firearm Registrations

If you are in a state with registration requirements, you will need to look up your specific state laws. Contact an attorney and make sure you are complying with your state regulations. Each state is different and you will want to make sure you have the most up to date information concerning registration.

References:

https://www.defensivecarry.com/threads/can-more-than-one-person-own-the-same-gun.26330/

https://nfa.ca/2005/02/25/dual-registration-under-c-68/

https://ballotpedia.org/Firearm_registration_requirements_by_state

https://giffords.org/lawcenter/gun-laws/policy-areas/owner-responsibilities/registration/