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Idaho is very permissive when it comes to laws. Most laws are easy to understand and leave no room for misinterpretations. Citizens in Idaho have more rights in terms of knives than in other states. Here is everything you need to know about knife laws in Idaho.
What knives are legal to own in Idaho?
Bali knives are perfectly legal in Idaho. Automatic knives/switchblades and other knives with quick-release blades are also permitted. While banned in other states, bowie knives and other similarly sized knives are allowed in Idaho. The same goes for stilettos, dirks, or similar stabbing knives, not to mention disguised knives – key, lipstick, belt, or cane knives. Just like bowie knives, ballistic knives also represent a controversial category in other states – not in Idaho, though. Pocket knives are legal, as well as throwing knives and stars.
What knives are illegal to own in Idaho?
There are no illegal knives in Idaho. On the contrary, all knives are allowed, making Idaho one of the best places to own a knife in the USA.
There are, however, a few age-based restrictions on possession. For example, those under 18 years old need parental consent to own a dirk or a bowie knife. Other than that, such knives cannot be owned by those under 12 years old unless their parents are around.
Also, any knife with more than six inches is considered a deadly weapon, and all the laws applicable to them are relevant to these knives.
What are the limits on carry?
While laws are great regarding the possession of knives, things are entirely different when it comes to carrying them. Open carrying any knife is legal, but concealed carry comes with some restrictions.
Concealed Carry
You cannot conceal carry dirks, daggers, or bowie knives with blades longer than four inches. You can eliminate such restrictions if you get a permit. However, carrying knives hidden is strictly illegal when intoxicated. This restriction applies even if you have a permit.
Restrictions on Carry in Specific Locations / Circumstances
While most states ban knives of all types in schools or on school grounds, Idaho is more permissive. You can carry a knife – open or concealed – in a school, as long as the blade is shorter than 2.5 inches. In other words, pocket knives are usually alright, but you should still double-check. This restriction also applies to school-organized activities or transportation.
Restrictions on Sale or Transfer
There are no significant restrictions on sales or transfers. They are primarily age-related. It is illegal to sell dirks, daggers, or bowie knives to minors. Other than that, you are free to sell or transfer knives.
Is there a statewide pre-emption?
There is a statewide pre-emption in Idaho. It prevents cities and municipalities from coming up with their own laws.
Major Cities in Idaho with Knife Ordinances
There are no major cities in Idaho with knife ordinances.
Exceptions
There are no exceptions. You can overcome some rules if you get a permit.
Summary of Knife Laws in Idaho
Idaho is extremely permissive when it comes to knives. There are, of course, a few restrictions based on age and types of knives. Blades longer than six inches may come with a few restrictions. Also, blades longer than 2.5 inches are not allowed in and around schools.
Hi, I am Jay. I am the creator of Knife Guides, your one-stop site for everything related to knives. I am a computer engineer by profession, knife aficionado by passion. Here I work with a group of people who’ve always had a passion for knives and blades. Over the years we’ve kind of become experts and decided to share our knowledge and ideas. I am also an avid hiker and enjoy offshore gamefishing.
