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KIRKSVILLE, MO & OTTUMWA, IA --
There is a big difference between gun permit laws in Iowa and Missouri. That’s because you need a permit to purchase a firearm Iowa, but you don’t need one in Missouri.

“You can go to a sporting goods store and fill out the required alcohol, tobacco, and firearms form, at that point they do an instant background check to determine if you’re qualified to purchase the firearm, and then if you are, you just fill out the paperwork, you pay for it, and the next thing you know you’re able to walk out the door with it,” said Adair County Sheriff Bob Hardwick.

You do have to be at least 21 years old and show a state id or driver’s license, along with passing the background check.

It’s a different story for carrying a concealed weapon. You must take an eight hour course and fill out an application for a CCW permit.

In Iowa, you must go to the local county law center and fill out an application for a permit.  Then, as the local sheriff's department performs a background check, you must wait three days.  If the permit is approved, you can then go and buy your firearm. 

The permit only lasts a year and once your permit is up you must re-apply.