How does alcohol or drug use affect firearm possession?

• A. It has no effect on possession.
• B. It slightly reduces risk but still allowed.
• C. It generally disqualifies possession; many jurisdictions prohibit possession while intoxicated and could result in charges.
• D. It is allowed if you are licensed.

Answer: (C)

Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time—exact abilities you need to handle a firearm safely. Because of that, possession while intoxicated is treated as unsafe and is prohibited in most jurisdictions. You can face criminal charges for possessing a firearm while under the influence, since the risk of mishandling or an accidental discharge is too high. Federal law also bars possession by someone who is an unlawful user of controlled substances. So even if you have a license, intoxication generally makes possession illegal.