Failure to register as gun offender in D.C.

A person who has been convicted of a gun-related offense in Washington, D.C. is required to register as a “gun offender” with the Metropolitan Police Department. D.C. Code § 7-2508.02. 

A failure to do so is a misdemeanor criminal offense punishable by up to a year in jail and/or $1,000 fine. D.C. Code § 7-2508.07(a). 

Who is a “gun offender”?

A “gun offender” is anyone who has been convicted of a gun offense as defined below in D.C. or another jurisdiction.

What is a “gun offense”?

A “gun offense” is defined as a conviction in the District or another jurisdiction for:

  • the sale, purchase, transfer, receipt, acquisition, possession, use, manufacture, carrying transportation, registration or licensing or a firearm;
  • attempt or conspiracy to commit any of the foregoing offense;
  • unregistered firearm, unregistered ammunition, or illegal manufacture of firearm; or
  • assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of firearm, or carjacking.

How long must I register as a gun offender?

The gun offender must comply with the registration requirement for a period of two years after the expiration of any time being served on probation, parole, supervised release, or conditional release or two years after an unconditional release from incarceration.  D.C. Code § 7-2508.03. 

How do I register as a gun offender?

A person who is convicted of a registrable offense must register within 48 hours of release (if jail time is imposed) or of sentencing (if no jail time is imposed).  The offender must also register within 48 hours of changing the place where he/she resides, works or attends school.

The person should report in person to the Daly building at 300 Indiana Avenue, NW to register.  While there, the offender will be required to sign under oath a statement to include:

  • the offender’s name, address,date of birth, gender, height weight, and eye color;
  • the jurisdiction and a description of the offense for which the offender was convicted and the date of the conviction

The offender will also be fingerprinted and asked to identification.