SMART CITIZEN: DRIVING WITH AMMUNITION ACROSS STATE LINES

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, hunter, or firearm collector, there may be times when you’ll need to transport ammunition across state lines. While this task might seem straightforward, it’s essential to understand the legalities involved. The laws can significantly vary from state to state, and ignorance of these laws is not considered to be innocence from these laws. Today, we’ll discuss a few key considerations and general guidelines when driving with ammunition across state lines.

1. Know the Federal LawsFirst, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with federal laws regarding ammunition transportation. According to the United States Code, Title 18, Section 926A, any individual not prohibited from possessing, transporting, shipping, or receiving firearms or ammunition may transport a firearm or ammunition for any lawful purpose from any place where they may lawfully possess and carry such firearm to any other place where they may lawfully possess and carry it. However, there are stipulations: during transport, the firearm and ammunition must be unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition being transported can be readily accessible from the passenger compartment.
2. Understand State LawsWhile federal law provides a basic framework, each state has the power to set its laws and regulations regarding the transportation of firearms and ammunition. Some states, like California and New York, have stricter laws than others. Always research the regulations of each state you drive through, not just your starting point and destination. Some states may require a permit to transport ammunition or have restrictions on the amount or type of ammunition you can possess. Georgia (at the time of this article) currently allows the possession and transport of ammunition in any location that would allow possession of a firearm.
3. Packaging and Safe StorageTo avoid any complications during your trip, ensure your ammunition is correctly packed and stored. In some states, ammunition should be stored in a separate locked container from the firearm. Do not leave ammunition in the glove compartment or console of your vehicle, as this can be seen as ‘readily accessible’ in some states. Regardless of state laws, always store ammunition according to manufacturer recommendations.
4. Should You Declare Your Cargo?If you’re stopped by law enforcement for any reason, should you declare your ammo? It depends on the laws of the state you are in. If state laws require you to disclose any firearms or ammunition in the vehicle, it is in your best interest to declare that you’re transporting ammunition. This transparency can help alleviate any potential concerns or complications. However, in Georgia (at the time of this article), there is no state law requiring anyone to disclose the presence of a firearm or ammunition during a routine traffic stop.
5. Be Aware of Municipal and County LawsKeep in mind that local (city and county) laws regarding ammunition transport may be more restrictive than state laws. A Smart Citizen would check the local regulations for any areas you’ll be traveling through, especially if you plan to stop overnight.
6. When in Doubt, Don’t Guess.If navigating the labyrinth of federal, state, and local laws is overwhelming, consider a more simple option. Avoid the research and civics lesson by shipping your ammunition through a licensed carrier or purchasing locally. 

REMEMBER WHEN TRAVELING WITH AMMUNITION

Transporting ammunition across state lines isn’t something to be taken lightly. It requires research, careful planning, and adherence to all applicable laws and regulations. Remember, the ultimate responsibility lies with the individual transporting the ammunition. As such, it’s essential to understand fully and comply with the law, ensuring a safe and uneventful journey.