Yes, semi-automatic AK-47 rifles are legal to own in Texas for anyone who is legally allowed to possess firearms. Texas places no state restrictions on AK-style rifles, SBR rifles, or AK pistols, as long as they comply with federal law. The only major prohibitions apply to machine guns (fully automatic AKs) and to prohibited persons who cannot own firearms due to criminal or disqualifying records.
What Type of AK-47 Is Legal?
| Type of AK-47 | Legal in Texas? | Why |
| Semi-automatic AK-47 rifle | ✔ Yes | Treated like a standard rifle |
| Fully automatic AK-47 (select-fire / machine gun) | ❌ Generally Illegal | Federal ban; requires pre-1986 registration |
| Short-barreled AK (SBR) | ✔ Legal (Texas) / ⚠ Restricted (Federal) | Texas repealed its ban via SB 1596, effective Sept. 1, 2025. However, you still need a federal NFA tax stamp. No stamp = federal felony. |
| Pistol-style AK (AK Pistol) | ✔ Legal | Classified as a handgun. Due to Reese v. ATF (2025), Texans 18–20 may buy from dealers, but many dealers are hesitant. |
Important: SBRs are now fully legal under Texas state law, but not under federal law without paperwork. You must still obtain a $200 tax stamp + ATF approval to avoid federal prison.
Who Can Legally Buy an AK-47 in Texas?
To legally purchase and own a semi-automatic AK, you must:
- Not be a prohibited person (felon, domestic violence conviction, unlawful drug user, etc.)
- Be 18 or older to own a rifle from a private seller
- Be 18+ to buy from a dealer if they follow Reese v. ATF
Update: Reese v. ATF (Jan. 2025)
- A federal ruling struck down the ban on handgun sales to 18–20-year-olds in Texas’s jurisdiction.
- This means an 18-year-old can legally purchase an AK pistol.
However, many licensed dealers still refuse sales until nationwide ATF guidance updates.
What Is Illegal With an AK-47 in Texas?
Even though owning a semi-auto AK is legal, certain actions are felonies:
- Converting an AK to full-auto (machine gun)
- Possessing an auto-sear or “switch” conversion device
Legal Detail on Switches
- While Texas proposed a new “anti-switch” bill, HB 4216 did not pass in 2025.
- Switches are still illegal as machine guns under Texas Penal Code §46.05(a)(2).
- Penalty: Third-Degree Felony (2–10 years + up to $10,000 fine)
You don’t need to install it. Mere possession is a felony.
Are AK-47s Registered in Texas?
No. Texas has:
- No firearm registration
- No state background check system
- No state permit required for ownership
However, purchasing from a dealer still requires a federal NICS background check, unless buying through a private sale.
Private sales must still follow the federal rule:
You cannot sell to someone you know or have reason to believe is prohibited.
Can You Carry or Transport an AK-47 in Texas?
In Your Vehicle
Legal to keep a rifle in your vehicle, loaded or unloaded, as long as you are not committing a crime.
Open Carry of a Rifle
Legal — but if you cause alarm, police may detain or investigate you. “Exhibition of a firearm” to cause fear can lead to arrest.
Restricted Locations
You cannot carry any firearm (including AKs) into:
- Schools
- Polling places during voting
- Court buildings
- Bars (51% alcohol rule)
- Secured airport areas
- Government restricted facilities
