Unlock hundreds more features
Save your Quiz to the Dashboard
View and Export Results
Use AI to Create Quizzes and Analyse Results

OR
Sign inSign in with Facebook
Sign inSign in with Google
Quizzes > Quizzes for Business > Government

Take the DC Weapons Law Quiz

Assess Your Understanding of Local Weapons Rules

Difficulty: Moderate
Questions: 20
Learning OutcomesStudy Material
Colorful paper art depicting elements related to a quiz on DC Weapons Law

Whether you're a law student or security professional, this DC Weapons Law Quiz is designed to sharpen your grasp of DC weapons regulations. In just 15 thought-provoking multiple-choice questions, you'll explore crucial firearms law concepts and assess your knowledge effectively. Feel free to customize questions in our intuitive editor to match your training needs. Looking to broaden your legal expertise? Try the Basic Law Knowledge Quiz or test broader statutes with the Criminal Law Knowledge Test. Discover more free quizzes to continue your learning journey.

Which of the following best defines a "firearm" under DC law?
Any tool used for hunting
Any knife with a blade over three inches
Any device that expels a projectile by the action of an explosive
Any nonlethal self-defense item
Under DC law, a firearm is defined as any weapon which expels a projectile by the action of an explosive. Bladed weapons and nonlethal items are regulated differently. This definition aligns with federal and local statutes.
Under DC law, which of these is classified as a prohibited weapon?
All of the above
Machine guns
Sawed-off shotguns
Silencers
DC law prohibits machine guns, sawed-off shotguns, and silencers unless specially licensed. These items are listed as prohibited weapons without exceptions. The correct choice reflects the comprehensive ban.
To carry a concealed handgun in DC, an individual must obtain which of the following?
Handgun Registration Certificate
Antique Firearm Exemption
Concealed Pistol License
Open Carry Permit
DC requires a Concealed Pistol License for any person to carry a concealed handgun. A Handgun Registration Certificate is separate from the carry license. No open carry is permitted in DC.
Are automatic (switchblade) knives generally allowed under DC law?
Only antiques are prohibited
No, they are prohibited weapons
Yes, with a special permit
Yes, if blade is under two inches
DC law classifies automatic switchblades as prohibited weapons regardless of blade length. There is no permit to carry a switchblade. Antique knives follow different rules but automatic knives remain banned.
Can a bona fide antique firearm be possessed in DC without registration?
Yes, antique firearms are exempt
Only muzzleloaders must be registered
Yes, but only if unloaded
No, all firearms must be registered
DC law exempts bona fide antique firearms from registration. This exemption applies to items not designed for modern ammunition. Modern firearms require full registration.
What is the maximum penalty for possession of an unregistered machine gun in DC?
Up to ten years imprisonment
Up to five years imprisonment
Up to one year imprisonment
No imprisonment, only fines
Possession of a machine gun in DC without proper licensing is a felony punishable by up to ten years. Lower penalties apply to less serious offenses. This reflects the strict prohibition on automatic weapons.
Which of the following persons is prohibited from possessing a firearm in DC?
All of the above
Convicted felons
Individuals under 18 years old
Persons adjudicated mentally unfit
DC law prohibits firearm possession by minors, persons adjudicated mentally unfit, and convicted felons. Each category is independently disqualified. Therefore, all listed persons are barred.
Which exception allows possession of a firearm in DC without a local license?
Visitors from neighboring states
Active federal law enforcement officers
Licensed hunters
Members of neighborhood watch
Active federal law enforcement officers are exempt from DC licensing requirements under federal preemption. Other individuals must comply with DC permit laws. Hunters still need local permits for firearms in DC.
What is the required method for storing a registered firearm at home in DC?
Loaded in a locked case
Stored with ammunition only in a separate room
Unloaded and secured with a lock or in a locked container
Unlocked and accessible at all times
DC law requires registered firearms to be unloaded and secured with a locking device or stored in a locked container. Loaded firearms in the home are prohibited. This rule helps prevent unauthorized access.
What is the mandatory waiting period to take possession of a newly purchased handgun in DC?
Three days
Five days
Ten days
No waiting period
DC imposes a mandatory ten-day waiting period between purchase approval and taking possession of a handgun. This cooling-off period aims to reduce impulsive acts. Shorter or no waiting periods are not permitted.
Which of the following is required to obtain a DC Firearms Registration Certificate?
Proof of DC residency and fingerprinting
Payment of registration fee
All of the above
Safety training certificate
Applicants must show proof of DC residency, submit fingerprints, complete safety training, and pay a registration fee. These combined requirements ensure accountability and safety. Skipping any element disqualifies the application.
How often must a DC firearms registration be renewed?
Annually
Every three years
Never, registration is permanent
Every two years
DC requires firearms registrations to be renewed every three years. This periodic renewal verifies that registrants remain eligible. There is no lifetime or annual renewal schedule.
Under DC law, how must long guns be transported in a vehicle?
Unloaded and placed on the passenger seat
Unloaded and enclosed in a locked case or container
Loaded in a locked case
Loaded and unsecured
DC law mandates that long guns in a vehicle be unloaded and secured in a locked case or container. Loaded or unsecured transport is prohibited. This reduces the risk of highway crime.
Which knife is legal to carry in DC without a special permit?
Pocket knife with a three-inch manual folding blade
Ballistic knife
Automatic switchblade with two-inch blade
Dirk or dagger
Manual folding pocket knives with blades three inches or less are legal in DC without a special permit. Automatic knives, ballistic knives, and dirks are prohibited weapons. Blade length and mechanism matter.
Under DC's concealed carry law, applicants must demonstrate which of the following?
Good reason to fear injury or need for self-defense
Owning property in DC
Completion of hunter safety course
Having carried lawfully in another state
DC is a "may issue" jurisdiction requiring applicants for a concealed carry permit to show good reason to fear injury or a demonstrated need for self-defense. Other factors alone are insufficient. This limits the number of permits granted.
Which action constitutes a straw purchase under DC law?
Buying a firearm for your own protection
Registering an antique firearm without a license
Loaning a firearm to a friend for target shooting
Purchasing a firearm on behalf of someone prohibited from owning one
A straw purchase occurs when someone buys a firearm for another person whom federal or DC law prohibits from owning it. This is illegal and subject to criminal penalties. Legitimate private loans under lawful conditions differ.
A DC resident was convicted of a misdemeanor DUI ten years ago. Can they register a new firearm today?
Yes, misdemeanor DUI does not disqualify under DC law
Only if they complete additional training
Only if three years have passed
No, all DUI convictions are permanent disqualifiers
DC law disqualifies only those with convictions punishable by more than one year or certain violent misdemeanors. A standard DUI is typically punishable by less than one year and does not permanently bar registration. No extra training is mandated.
Which firearm part is exempt from DC regulation as an antique component?
Semi-automatic rifle barrel
Flintlock lock mechanism made before 1898
Modern AR-15 lower receiver
Unfinished polymer pistol frame
Antique components like a flintlock lock mechanism made before 1898 are exempt from DC regulation. Modern receivers, frames, and barrels remain fully regulated. The exemption applies only to bona fide antique parts.
Which of the following can trigger revocation of a DC concealed carry permit?
Moving out of DC and not updating address
Any of the above
Felony conviction after issuance
Commitment to a mental health facility
A DC concealed carry permit may be revoked for a subsequent felony conviction, mental health adjudication, or failure to maintain district residency. Each event undermines eligibility. All listed grounds are valid triggers.
How can a DC resident restore their civil firearm rights after a felony conviction?
Receiving a pardon from the President or DC Board of Pardons
Completing firearm safety training
Filing a petition for expungement in DC court
Waiting ten years without incident
Under DC law, only a formal pardon from the President or the DC Board of Pardons restores firearm rights after a felony. Expungement or waiting without a pardon is insufficient. Safety training alone does not remove the disqualification.
0
{"name":"Which of the following best defines a \"firearm\" under DC law?", "url":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/QPREVIEW","txt":"Which of the following best defines a \"firearm\" under DC law?, Under DC law, which of these is classified as a prohibited weapon?, To carry a concealed handgun in DC, an individual must obtain which of the following?","img":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/3012/images/ogquiz.png"}

Learning Outcomes

  1. Analyse key provisions of DC weapons law
  2. Identify prohibited weapons and exceptions under DC statutes
  3. Evaluate permit requirements and compliance criteria
  4. Apply licensing procedures to hypothetical scenarios
  5. Demonstrate understanding of penalties for violations

Cheat Sheet

  1. Understand Prohibited Weapons - Think of D.C.'s banned list as a VIP party you never want an invite to: machine guns, bump stocks, ghost guns, knuckles, blackjacks and more are strictly off-limits unless you're on duty. Familiarize yourself with each forbidden item so you don't accidentally cross the line. D.C. Council Code §22-4514
  2. Know the Registration Restrictions - Certain firearms like sawed-off shotguns, short-barreled rifles and assault weapons simply can't be registered in D.C., period. Getting to grips with these exclusions is key to staying on the right side of the law. D.C. Council Code §7-2502.02
  3. Comprehend Concealed Carry Laws - Whether it's tucked under your jacket or holstered in view, carrying a pistol in D.C. without a District license is a big no-no. Penalties ramp up for repeat offenses or anyone with a prior felony, so know the rules before you step out. D.C. Council Code §22-4504
  4. Recognize Permit Requirements - To legally conceal carry here, you'll need a permit from the MPD, plus you've got to clear background checks, fingerprinting and safety training. Staying in the loop on the application process makes everything smoother. MPDC Registration Requirements
  5. Identify Exceptions to Prohibitions - Don't worry, active-duty military, law enforcement officers and certain federal employees can carry restricted weapons when on official duties. Knowing who qualifies keeps you from misinterpreting the rules. D.C. Council Code §22-4514
  6. Learn About Penalties for Violations - Breaking the rules could cost you big: think fines up to $25,000 or a decade behind bars for some offenses, especially if you're back in court. It's a harsh reminder that compliance isn't optional. MPDC Registration Requirements
  7. Understand Firearm Storage Laws - D.C. requires locked, secure storage to keep weapons out of hands you don't intend - - especially minors. Slip up and a child gets hurt? You could be in serious legal hot water. MPDC Storage Rules
  8. Be Aware of Ammunition Regulations - Magazines that hold more than ten rounds are a no-go in the District. Keeping your ammo game within limits is an easy way to dodge trouble. MPDC Ammunition Guidelines
  9. Know the Licensing Procedures - Whether you're registering a firearm or seeking a concealed-carry permit, expect background checks, fingerprinting and mandatory safety training. Mastering these steps ahead of time streamlines your journey. MPDC Licensing Process
  10. Stay Updated on Legal Changes - Weapon laws evolve faster than you can say "legislation." Bookmark official D.C. sources and check for updates regularly so you're never caught off guard. MPDC Updates & Alerts
Make a Quiz (FREE) Copy & Edit This Quiz Create a Quiz with AI

Government Quizzes

Powered by: Quiz Maker