Can a felon own a gun in Alabama?

Alabama prohibits possession of a pistol (handgun with barrel under 12 inches) by anyone convicted of a 'crime of violence.' For all other felonies, there is no state-level handgun restriction, and Alabama does not restrict long gun possession for felons. Restoration of pistol rights requires a Certificate of Pardon from the Board of Pardons and Paroles.

How can a felon restore gun rights in Alabama?

Apply to the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles for a Certificate of Pardon with Restoration of Civil and Political Rights. Expungement alone does not restore firearm rights.

What is the waiting period for gun rights restoration in Alabama?

Must complete sentence before applying. No statutory minimum waiting period after sentence completion.

Are there exceptions to gun rights restoration in Alabama?

The restriction only applies to pistols/handguns for violent crime convictions. Long guns (rifles/shotguns) are not restricted under state law for any felon. Federal law still prohibits all firearms for all felons.

Can a felon get gun rights back in Alabama?

Yes, through several paths depending on your situation. For non-violent felons with fewer than three total felony convictions, the state-level prohibition lifts automatically five years after completion of sentence under SB 119 (effective October 1, 2025). For violent felons or those with three or more felonies, a pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles is required. In all cases, the federal ban under 18 USC 922(g)(1) still applies unless you receive a pardon that restores civil rights.

How do I apply for a pardon in Alabama?

Download the Pardon Application (Form ABPP-3) and the Waiver form from paroles.alabama.gov. Complete all sections, ensure all fines and restitution are paid, and submit by mail to the Pardons Unit at the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles or by email to pardons@paroles.alabama.gov. You must have completed your sentence or served at least three years on parole.

What did SB 119 (2025) change about Alabama gun laws?

SB 119, signed by Governor Ivey on May 5, 2025 and effective October 1, 2025, expanded firearm prohibitions in Alabama. It made it a Class C felony to possess a firearm if convicted of any felony within the past five years, or if a person has three or more felony convictions at any time. It also prohibited firearm possession by persons charged with violent crimes while released pending trial. Previously, Alabama primarily restricted only handgun possession for violent crime convictions.

Does the automatic five-year expiration lift the federal ban too?

No. The five-year period under SB 119 only lifts the Alabama state-level prohibition. Federal law under 18 USC 922(g)(1) independently prohibits all felons from possessing firearms, and the automatic expiration of the state restriction does not constitute a 'restoration of civil rights' for federal purposes. You need a pardon or expungement to address the federal ban.

How long does the Alabama pardon process take?

The timeline varies. After submitting your application, the Board conducts an investigation that can take several months. The Board meets regularly but hearing scheduling depends on caseload. The entire process from application to decision can take 6 months to over a year. If denied, you must wait at least two years before reapplying.

Can I possess a firearm at home in Alabama as a felon?

Only if you fall outside all prohibition categories. If your non-violent felony conviction is more than five years old and you have fewer than three total felonies, you are not prohibited under Alabama state law. However, federal law still prohibits all felons from possessing firearms in any location, including their home. A pardon is the safest path to lawful possession.

Does Alabama expungement restore gun rights?

Yes. Under Alabama's expungement statute (15-27-1 et seq.), an expunged conviction is treated as if it did not occur, removing the firearms disability under both 13A-11-72 and 13A-11-72.2. Additionally, expungement generally lifts the federal ban under 18 USC 921(a)(20). However, not all felonies are eligible for expungement — violent crimes and sex offenses are generally excluded.

What is the penalty for a felon possessing a firearm in Alabama?

Under SB 119, violation of 13A-11-72.2 is a Class C felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years imprisonment and up to a $15,000 fine. Violation of 13A-11-72(a) (crime of violence prohibition) carries its own penalties. Federal prosecution under 18 USC 922(g)(1) can result in up to 15 years in federal prison.

Can the Board grant a pardon but NOT restore gun rights?

Yes. The Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles has discretion to grant a pardon and separately decide whether to restore specific civil and political rights, including gun rights. It is possible to receive a pardon that does not include restoration of firearm rights. When applying, clearly state that you are seeking restoration of the right to possess firearms.

Felon Gun Rights in Alabama

Must petition for restoration

It depends. If you were convicted of a 'crime of violence,' you are permanently prohibited from possessing firearms under Alabama state law unless you receive a pardon. If your conviction is for a non-violent felony, you are prohibited for five years after completion of sentence under the 2025 SB 119 law (or permanently if you have three or more felonies). After the five-year period expires for qualifying non-violent felons, the state-level prohibition lifts automatically — but the federal ban under 18 USC 922(g)(1) still applies. A pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles is the most reliable way to restore gun rights under both state and federal law.

Last updated: 2026-03-21

Overview

Alabama has a multi-layered system for felon gun rights. Under the longstanding 13A-11-72(a), persons convicted of a 'crime of violence' are permanently prohibited from possessing any firearm. Effective October 1, 2025, SB 119 added a new section 13A-11-72.2 that prohibits firearm possession by anyone convicted of any felony within the past five years, or anyone with three or more felony convictions at any time. For felons outside these prohibitions (non-violent felonies older than five years with fewer than three total felonies), there may be no state-level firearm restriction, though federal law still applies. The primary mechanism for restoring firearm rights is a Certificate of Pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Quick Answer

Federal Law — 18 USC 922(g)

Under 18 USC 922(g)(1), all persons convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year are prohibited from possessing firearms. This applies in Alabama regardless of state law. Alabama's automatic lifting of the state-level restriction after five years (for non-violent felons under SB 119) does NOT lift the federal ban. A pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles that restores civil rights is generally recognized as lifting the federal firearms disability under 18 USC 921(a)(20), provided the pardon does not expressly exclude firearms. Since Alabama restores voting rights and other civil rights upon completion of sentence, the question of whether this 'restoration of civil rights' satisfies the federal standard is complex. Consult an attorney. The revived 18 USC 925(c) federal petition process may also provide a separate pathway.

Can restore gun rights

✓Persons convicted of non-violent felonies who wait five years after completion of sentence — the state-level prohibition under SB 119 (13A-11-72.2) lifts automatically (but federal law still applies)
✓Persons who receive a Certificate of Pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles with restoration of civil and political rights including firearms
✓Persons whose conviction is expunged, set aside, or who have had civil rights restored (unless the restoration expressly excludes firearms)
✓Persons whose conviction is overturned on appeal or post-conviction review
✓Persons eligible for the revived federal 18 USC 925(c) petition process

Cannot restore gun rights

✗Persons convicted of a 'crime of violence' under 13A-11-72(a) — permanently prohibited unless pardoned
✗Persons convicted of any felony within the past five years under SB 119 (13A-11-72.2)
✗Persons with three or more felony convictions at any time under SB 119 — permanently prohibited unless pardoned
✗Persons convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence — prohibited under both state and federal law
✗Persons subject to an active protection order for domestic abuse
✗Persons of 'unsound mind' as determined by a court
✗Persons charged with a crime of violence who possess firearms while released pending or during trial (under SB 119)

Step-by-Step Process

Determine your eligibility category

Identify which prohibition applies to you: (1) Crime of violence — permanent ban under 13A-11-72(a), requires pardon; (2) Any felony within past 5 years — prohibited under SB 119, automatic lifting after 5 years; (3) Three or more felonies — permanent ban under SB 119, requires pardon. For categories (1) and (3), a pardon is the only option. For category (2), you may wait for the 5-year period to expire, but federal law still applies.

Complete your sentence or serve at least three years on parole

To apply for a pardon, you must have either completed your sentence or successfully served at least three years on parole for the conviction you are seeking to pardon. All fines, court costs, fees, and victim restitution must be paid in full, or you must have obtained relief from these obligations from the Board or sentencing court.

Obtain and complete the pardon application (ABPP-3)

Download the Pardon Application (Form ABPP-3) and the Waiver of Liability and Authority for Release of Information from the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles website at paroles.alabama.gov. Complete all sections including personal information, conviction details, and reasons for seeking a pardon.

Submit the application

Submit the completed application and waiver by mail to ATTN: Pardons Unit at the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, or by email to pardons@paroles.alabama.gov. Include all required supporting documentation.

Investigation by the Board

The Board conducts an investigation that includes reviewing your home situation, employment status, updated criminal arrest record, written references, and other relevant information. The investigation may take several months.

Board hearing and decision

The Board schedules a hearing on your pardon application. At the hearing, the Board considers your application, investigation results, and any testimony. If the Board grants a pardon, it will decide whether to restore civil and political rights, including gun rights. If denied, you must wait at least two years before reapplying (unless the Board specifies a different period).

Confirm restoration of firearm rights

If the pardon is granted, verify that it explicitly restores your right to possess firearms. The Board decides separately whether to restore gun rights as part of the pardon. A pardon that restores civil rights but excludes firearms would not lift the gun prohibition. Keep your pardon certificate as proof of restoration.

Waiting Period

For non-violent felons, the state-level prohibition under SB 119 (13A-11-72.2) lifts automatically five years after completion of sentence, provided the person has fewer than three total felony convictions. For violent crime convictions and persons with three or more felonies, there is no automatic restoration — a pardon is required. To apply for a pardon, you must have completed your sentence or served at least three years on parole. If denied, you must wait at least two years before reapplying.

Key Laws

Law	Year	Description
Alabama Code 13A-11-72(a) — Certain Persons Forbidden to Possess Firearm (Crime of Violence)	1977 (amended multiple times)	Permanently prohibits firearm possession by any person convicted of a crime of violence, a misdemeanor domestic violence offense, a violent offense, or any person subject to a valid protection order for domestic abuse, or any person of unsound mind. A pardon, expungement, or restoration of civil rights (without express exclusion of firearms) removes this prohibition.
Alabama Code 13A-11-72.2 — SB 119 (2025 Expansion)	2025	Effective October 1, 2025, makes it a Class C felony for a person to possess a firearm if convicted of any felony within the past five years, or if the person has been convicted of three or more felony offenses at any time. Also makes it a Class C felony for a person charged with a crime of violence to possess a firearm while released pending or during trial (requires conviction of the underlying violent crime first). Penalties include 1-10 years imprisonment.
Alabama Code 15-22-36 — Board of Pardons and Paroles Authority	1939 (amended)	Grants the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles the authority to grant pardons, restore civil and political rights, and remit fines and forfeitures. The Board's authority includes the power to specifically restore firearm rights as part of a pardon.
Alabama Code 15-27-1 et seq. — Expungement of Criminal Records	2014 (expanded 2021)	Provides for expungement of certain criminal records, including some non-violent felonies. Expungement removes the firearms disability. However, not all felonies are eligible for expungement, and violent crimes are generally excluded.

Edge Cases

I was convicted of a non-violent felony more than five years ago and have no other felonies — can I possess a firearm?

Under Alabama state law (SB 119, effective October 1, 2025), you are no longer prohibited from possessing a firearm if five years have passed since completion of your sentence and you have fewer than three total felony convictions. However, federal law under 18 USC 922(g)(1) still prohibits you from possessing firearms. To fully restore your rights under both state and federal law, you should seek a pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles.

What counts as a 'crime of violence' under Alabama law?

Alabama Code 13A-11-72(a) references 'crime of violence' and 'violent offense' as defined in 13A-1-2. This includes murder, manslaughter, rape, sodomy, sexual abuse, robbery, assault (1st and 2nd degree), kidnapping, arson, domestic violence, and other offenses involving physical force or threat thereof. If your conviction falls under this category, you face a permanent state-level ban that requires a pardon to lift.

Does the five-year prohibition under SB 119 apply to convictions before October 1, 2025?

Yes. SB 119 applies to anyone convicted of a felony, regardless of when the conviction occurred. If you have a felony conviction and fewer than five years have passed since completion of your sentence as of October 1, 2025, you are prohibited under the new law. The five-year clock runs from completion of sentence, not from the date the law took effect.

I have three misdemeanor convictions and one felony — does the 'three or more felony' rule apply?

No. The three-or-more felony permanent prohibition under SB 119 (13A-11-72.2) applies only to three or more felony convictions. Misdemeanor convictions do not count toward this threshold. However, misdemeanor domestic violence convictions carry their own separate firearms prohibition under both state and federal law.

Can I possess long guns (rifles/shotguns) if I am convicted of a non-violent felony in Alabama?

Under the pre-SB 119 framework, the original 13A-11-72 primarily restricted 'pistols' (handguns) for certain persons. However, SB 119 (13A-11-72.2) broadly restricts 'firearm' possession, which includes long guns. If you are within the five-year period or have three or more felonies, you cannot possess any firearm — including rifles and shotguns — under state law. Federal law also prohibits all firearms for all felons.

What happens if my pardon is denied by the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles?

If the Board denies your pardon, you may not reapply for at least two years from the date of the Board's action, unless the Board expressly orders a different waiting period. Use the intervening time to strengthen your case: maintain a clean record, build community ties, obtain employment, and gather additional character references.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a felon get gun rights back in Alabama?: Yes, through several paths depending on your situation. For non-violent felons with fewer than three total felony convictions, the state-level prohibition lifts automatically five years after completion of sentence under SB 119 (effective October 1, 2025). For violent felons or those with three or more felonies, a pardon from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles is required. In all cases, the federal ban under 18 USC 922(g)(1) still applies unless you receive a pardon that restores civil rights.
How do I apply for a pardon in Alabama?: Download the Pardon Application (Form ABPP-3) and the Waiver form from paroles.alabama.gov. Complete all sections, ensure all fines and restitution are paid, and submit by mail to the Pardons Unit at the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles or by email to pardons@paroles.alabama.gov. You must have completed your sentence or served at least three years on parole.
What did SB 119 (2025) change about Alabama gun laws?: SB 119, signed by Governor Ivey on May 5, 2025 and effective October 1, 2025, expanded firearm prohibitions in Alabama. It made it a Class C felony to possess a firearm if convicted of any felony within the past five years, or if a person has three or more felony convictions at any time. It also prohibited firearm possession by persons charged with violent crimes while released pending trial. Previously, Alabama primarily restricted only handgun possession for violent crime convictions.
Does the automatic five-year expiration lift the federal ban too?: No. The five-year period under SB 119 only lifts the Alabama state-level prohibition. Federal law under 18 USC 922(g)(1) independently prohibits all felons from possessing firearms, and the automatic expiration of the state restriction does not constitute a 'restoration of civil rights' for federal purposes. You need a pardon or expungement to address the federal ban.
How long does the Alabama pardon process take?: The timeline varies. After submitting your application, the Board conducts an investigation that can take several months. The Board meets regularly but hearing scheduling depends on caseload. The entire process from application to decision can take 6 months to over a year. If denied, you must wait at least two years before reapplying.
Can I possess a firearm at home in Alabama as a felon?: Only if you fall outside all prohibition categories. If your non-violent felony conviction is more than five years old and you have fewer than three total felonies, you are not prohibited under Alabama state law. However, federal law still prohibits all felons from possessing firearms in any location, including their home. A pardon is the safest path to lawful possession.
Does Alabama expungement restore gun rights?: Yes. Under Alabama's expungement statute (15-27-1 et seq.), an expunged conviction is treated as if it did not occur, removing the firearms disability under both 13A-11-72 and 13A-11-72.2. Additionally, expungement generally lifts the federal ban under 18 USC 921(a)(20). However, not all felonies are eligible for expungement — violent crimes and sex offenses are generally excluded.
What is the penalty for a felon possessing a firearm in Alabama?: Under SB 119, violation of 13A-11-72.2 is a Class C felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years imprisonment and up to a $15,000 fine. Violation of 13A-11-72(a) (crime of violence prohibition) carries its own penalties. Federal prosecution under 18 USC 922(g)(1) can result in up to 15 years in federal prison.
Can the Board grant a pardon but NOT restore gun rights?: Yes. The Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles has discretion to grant a pardon and separately decide whether to restore specific civil and political rights, including gun rights. It is possible to receive a pardon that does not include restoration of firearm rights. When applying, clearly state that you are seeking restoration of the right to possess firearms.

Take Action — Direct Links

Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles — Pardons FAQs
Official FAQ page covering pardon eligibility, the application process, investigation procedures, and Board hearings.
Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles — Pardon Application (ABPP-3)
Official pardon application form. Download, complete, and submit to the Pardons Unit.
Alabama Code 13A-11-72 — Full Statute Text
Full text of the statute prohibiting certain persons from possessing firearms, including the 2025 SB 119 amendments.
Collateral Consequences Resource Center — Alabama Profile
Comprehensive guide to Alabama restoration of rights, pardon, expungement, and sealing — including gun rights restoration.
Giffords Law Center — Alabama Firearm Prohibitions
Summary of Alabama's firearm prohibition laws including who is prohibited and restoration mechanisms.
Alabama SB 119 — Enrolled Bill Text
Full text of SB 119 as signed into law by Governor Ivey on May 5, 2025, expanding firearm prohibitions for felons.