Are Stun Guns Legal? A State-by-State Guide to Stun Gun Laws

Stun guns and tasers are powerful self-defense tools, but their legality varies across the U.S. Understanding stun gun laws by state is important information to know before purchasing or carrying one. Are stun guns legal in your state? What about tasers? This guide provides an overview of where these devices are permitted, highlights key state regulations, and offers TBOTECH’s top stun guns and tasers for legal states.

Stay informed, stay safe, and shop confidently with TBOTECH. Note: Laws can change, so always check your local statutes for the most current information.

Stun Gun Legality Overview: Where Are Stun Guns and Tasers Legal?

Stun guns and tasers are legal for self-defense in most U.S. states, but there are important exceptions and restrictions to understand:

• Legal in Most States: 48 states allow stun guns and tasers for personal use, typically without a permit. Examples include Florida, California, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.
• Banned States: Stun guns and tasers are illegal in Hawaii and Rhode Island. Possession in these states can result in fines or jail time, with updates to laws pending.
• Restricted Areas: Even in legal states, stun guns and tasers are prohibited in certain locations, such as schools, airports, courthouses, and government buildings. Always check local ordinances for specific restrictions.
• Who Can’t Own Them: Felons and minors are generally prohibited from owning stun guns or tasers. Age restrictions vary by state but are typically set at 18 or 21 years old.
• Permit Requirements: Most states don’t require a permit, but some, like Illinois, may require a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card or background checks.

Understanding these basics ensures you can purchase and carry a stun gun or taser responsibly within legal boundaries.

Stun Gun Laws by State: Key Regulations to Know

Laws vary widely across the United States, so here is a breakdown of stun gun and taser regulations in key states, based on the latest available information. For more details, check your state’s specific guide linked below or consult local authorities:

• Florida: Stun guns and tasers are legal without a permit for adults 18+. No concealed carry license required, but restrictions apply in schools and government buildings. Read Full Florida Guide
• California: Legal without a permit for adults 18+, but prohibited on school grounds, public buildings, and airports. Background checks may apply to certain purchases. Read Full California Guide
• New Jersey: Legal since a 2017 court ruling, no permit required for adults 18+. Restrictions apply in schools, courthouses, and other public facilities. Read Full New Jersey Guide
• New York: Legal following a 2019 court ruling, no permit needed for adults 18+. Prohibited in schools, airports, and government buildings. Read Full New York Guide
• Illinois: Legal with a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card for adults 18+. Restrictions apply in schools, public transit, and government buildings. Read Full Illinois Guide
• Hawaii: Stun guns and tasers are illegal for civilian use. Possession can lead to legal consequences, with potential changes under review.
• Rhode Island: Stun guns and tasers are illegal for civilian use. Possession can result in fines or jail time, with updates to laws pending.
• Arizona: Legal without a permit for adults 18+. No concealed carry license required, but prohibited in schools, polling places, and government buildings.
• Texas: Legal without a permit for adults 18+. Restrictions apply in schools, hospitals, and courthouses, but no concealed carry license is needed.
• Ohio: Legal without a permit for adults 18+. Prohibited in schools, courthouses, and airports, with local ordinances varying by city.
• Wisconsin: Legal with a concealed carry license for adults 18+. Restrictions apply in schools, government buildings, and places serving alcohol.
• Massachusetts: Legal with a firearms license for adults 18+. Prohibited in schools, airports, and public buildings.

This list covers key states, but laws can differ by city or county. Always verify with local authorities or refer to TBOTECH’s state-specific guides for the most up-to-date information.

Stun Guns vs. Tasers: Legal Differences Explained

While stun guns and tasers are often regulated similarly, understanding their differences can help you choose the right tool for your needs:

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• Stun Guns: These are contact devices that deliver an electric shock when pressed against an attacker. They require close proximity, making them ideal for self-defense in tight spaces. Legally, stun guns are treated the same as tasers in most states, but some jurisdictions may have specific restrictions on voltage or design (e.g., disguised stun guns like cell phone tasers).
• Tasers: Tasers shoot darts up to 15 feet, delivering a shock that temporarily incapacitates an attacker from a distance. They’re often subject to the same laws as stun guns, but some states (e.g., Illinois, Massachusetts) may require additional permits due to their projectile nature.
• Legal Considerations: Both devices are banned in Hawaii and Rhode Island, and restricted areas (e.g., schools, airports) apply universally. Always check if your state treats stun guns and tasers differently, especially for concealed carry or age restrictions.

TBOTECH offers both stun guns and tasers for legal states, ensuring you can find the right tool for your self-defense needs.

Who Can’t Own a Stun Gun or Taser?

Even in states where stun guns and tasers are legal, certain individuals are prohibited from owning or carrying them:

• Felons: Convicted felons are generally barred from possessing stun guns or tasers in all states, as these devices are classified as weapons under the law.
• Minors: Age restrictions vary by state, but most require you to be at least 18 (e.g., Florida, Texas) to purchase or carry a stun gun or taser.
• Individuals with Restraining Orders: Some states prohibit ownership for those under active restraining orders or with certain domestic violence convictions.
• Other Restrictions: People with specific mental health adjudications may also be barred, depending on state laws.

Always confirm your eligibility with local law enforcement before purchasing a stun gun or taser.

Buy Stun Guns and Tasers: TBOTECH’s Top Picks for Legal States

If you’re in a state where stun guns and tasers are legal, TBOTECH offers a wide selection of reliable self-defense tools. Here are some top picks to keep you protected, along with a complementary safety tool:

• Mini Stun Gun: A compact 40 million volt stun gun with slider activation, featuring a safety switch to prevent accidental discharge, perfect for discreet carry in legal states. Shop Mini Stun Gun
• Taser with Laser: A taser with a 15-foot range and built-in laser for precise aiming, delivering a 50,000-volt shock to incapacitate attackers from a safe distance. Shop Taser with Laser
• Stun Baton: A 80 million volt stun baton with a 16-inch reach, featuring a telescopic design for extended protection, ideal for those in legal states needing a longer-range option. Shop Stun Baton
• Safety Alarm with Clip: A 130-decibel alarm with a clip for attaching to your bag or belt, activated by a pull-pin, offering a non-lethal way to draw attention in emergencies. Shop Safety Alarm with Clip

TBOTECH ships to all legal states and ensures compliance with local regulations. Check our Shipping Restrictions page to confirm eligibility before purchasing.

Explore More Self-Defense Resources

Enhance your safety with these TBOTECH resources:

• Stay Safe in Public Spaces: Essential Tips for Personal Security – Tips for navigating public areas safely.
• What to Do If Someone Is Following You: Stay Safe – Steps to take if you’re being followed.
• Shop Stun Guns – Reliable close-range protection.
• Shop TASER Weapons – Immediate take-down power.

Stay Informed and Protected with TBOTECH

Understanding stun gun laws by state ensures you can carry a self-defense tool legally and responsibly. Whether you’re in Florida, California, or another legal state, TBOTECH has the stun guns, tasers, and safety tools you need to protect yourself. Stay informed, check your local laws, and shop with confidence—your safety starts with preparation!