Alaska Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a background check when purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Alaska?

1. To register the firearm

2. To ensure the buyer is of legal age

3. To verify the buyer has completed a firearms safety course

4. To prevent prohibited persons from purchasing firearms

The correct answer is: To prevent prohibited persons from purchasing firearms

The primary purpose of a background check when purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer in Alaska is to prevent prohibited persons from purchasing firearms. This involves screening the buyer's background to ensure they do not fall into any prohibited categories, such as having a felony conviction, domestic violence restraining order, or mental health adjudication that would disqualify them from owning or possessing firearms. It is an essential step in the gun purchasing process to help maintain public safety and prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. Option A is not the correct answer because, in Alaska, firearm registration is not required by law. Option B may be a factor in the background check process, but the primary purpose goes beyond just ensuring the legal age of the buyer. Option C is not typically a requirement in Alaska for purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer, as completion of a firearms safety course is not mandatory for every purchase.