In District of Columbia (D.C.) a state permit is required to purchase rifles, shotguns, handguns or long guns.  Purchase of firearms such as rifles and shotguns should only be made through a D.C. licensed dealer.  Delivery of the firearm can be made only when the registration certificate for the firearm is approved by the Metropolitan Police Department.  The D.C. has prohibited the purchase of handguns.  Under D.C. Code Section 7-2502.01, a person should have a valid registration certificate to own a firearm.  The laws governing firearms are stated under D.C. Code § 7-2502.01 et seq, and D.C. Code § 22-4501 et seq.