Important Notice: Document Upload Requirement
In order for your Permit to Acquire application to be processed, you must provide:
- A valid form of identification - Government issued photo ID (e.g. IA Drivers License / State ID). The address on your application must match the address on your identification.
Please have the required documentation ready to upload to the application. You can scan or take pictures of your documentation. The ID must be in color. You can upload the following formats: JPEG, PNG, PDF, TIFF, BMP. Maximum file size is 5MB.
Important Your permit application will not be processed and issued if this information is not provided. You can upload these documents when submitting your application.
General Information
Learning the laws regulating the use of firearms is a must for responsible ownership. Local regulations differ and laws vary from state to state. Citizens must check with the jurisdiction where the gun is to be used. This online application is for residents of Polk County, Iowa only.
Please note the following information:
- Permits to Acquire are submitted to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.
- The application fees are listed in the requirements section below.
- All communication regarding the status of your application, including the approval of your application, will be sent via the email address provided on the application.
- The Permit to Acquire is valid for five years from the date of issue.
- Permit to Acquire applications may be completed online 24 / 7 and will be processed during normal business hours.
- A computer kiosk is available should you wish to apply in person to the Sheriff's Headquarters at, 5995 NE 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50313 (Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM).
- Click the "Let's get Started" button to apply for a permit.
Please note that this website has been certifed to work using the following browsers: IE 9 or higher, Firefox, Safari or Chrome.
Handgun Purchase Permit Requirements: must meet ALL requirements
Applicant Must:
- be a citizen, a naturalized citizen or a resident alien;
- be a resident of Polk County;
- be twenty-one (21) years of age;
- provide a valid driver's license or other picture ID with current address provided by the State of Iowa.
All orders require a valid email address to communicate the status of your order. You will be notified via email whether your application has been approved or denied.
A permit to acquire weapons requires a fee of $25 and a valid driver's license or non-operator I.D. that contains your photograph and current address issued by the Iowa Department of Transportation. A permit to acquire is valid for five years from the date of issue.
For More Information, Contact:
Polk County Sheriff's Office
5995 NE 14th Street
Des Moines, IA 50313
Phone: 515-286-3306
Return to the Polk County Sheriff's Website (CLICK HERE)
Complete information regarding the new law effective January 1, 2011 including training requirements. Go to State Information on Obtaining and Carrying Permits (CLICK HERE)
For Technical Support, Contact:
Permitium Software
Email: help@permitium.com
Phone: (855) 642-2453
Storage of firearms and ammunition presents a unique responsibility. Children may see weapons as toys, and thieves view them as a tool for crime or an item that can be sold for quick profit. Keep all firearms locked away in a secure place.
