<P> The Constitution of Alabama provides that every citizen has a right to bear arms in defense of himself and the State . The State preempts local regulation of firearms . The firearm preemption statute reads "The purpose of this section is to establish within the Legislature complete control over regulation and policy pertaining to firearms, ammunition, and firearm accessories in order to ensure that such regulation and policy is applied uniformly throughout this state to each person subject to the state's jurisdiction and to ensure protection of the right to keep and bear arms recognized by the Constitutions of the State of Alabama and the United States ." Localities may regulate the discharge of firearms and levy taxes . On April 21, 2010, Gov. Bob Riley signed House Bill 2 into law as Act 2010 - 496 amending Ala. § 13A - 11 - 63, to allow civilian ownership of short - barrel rifles and short - barrel shotguns, as allowed by federal law . The only firearms known to be prohibited are those disguised as walking canes . </P> <P> Licensed dealers are required to process background checks through the FBI prior to completing a sale . Licensed dealers must keep a record of every handgun sold, including the purchaser's signature and particular information about the firearm being sold . Private sales of handguns and long guns are legal and no background check is required; however, it is unlawful to sell a firearm to a prohibited person . </P> <P> Firearms are prohibited from certain places, including demonstrations . Possession of firearms is prohibited on the premises of public schools by persons with intent to do bodily harm and those who do not have an Alabama Pistol Permit . Open carry on foot is generally allowed without a license, withstanding other applicable laws . As of Aug. 1, 2013, transportation of an unloaded handgun in a vehicle is allowed without an Alabama Pistol Permit if you are legally permitted to possess the handgun, and the handgun is locked away from immediate reach of all passengers . Carrying a handgun on premises that are not owned or under the control of the possessor is prohibited unless the person has a valid concealed handgun license . </P> <P> Alabama shall issue a license, unlimited, to applicants who are residents of the county in which they apply, who do not have any disqualifying criminal convictions, who are suitable persons . All Alabama county sheriffs, as of 2013, issue licenses to all "suitable persons ." The law requires applicants to be residents, so they do not issue licenses to non-residents . The license is valid to carry a handgun in a vehicle or concealed on or about one's person within the State . Licenses are valid for up to five years at a time . Alabama honors licenses issued by any state that also honors Alabama's licenses, provided that the license holder is not a resident of Alabama . </P>

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