Is Body Armor Legal in Colorado? (2026)
Yes. In Colorado, body armor is legal. Civilian possession of body armor is generally legal in Colorado, with restrictions primarily for convicted felons..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Colorado
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-26
Body Armor laws in Colorado
Colorado law does not explicitly prohibit ordinary citizens from purchasing or possessing body armor. However, like many states, Colorado law (C.R.S. § 18-12-106.5) makes it a felony for certain individuals to possess body armor. Specifically, a person who has been previously convicted of a violent felony as defined in C.R.S. § 18-1.3-406, and who knowingly possesses body armor, commits a class 6 felony. This statute is designed to prevent individuals with a history of serious violent crime from acquiring protection that could be used in further criminal activity. For the vast majority of law-abiding citizens, there are no state-level restrictions on the purchase, possession, or wear of body armor. There are no permits required, and no specific type of body armor (e.g., hard plates, soft armor) is singled out for additional regulation. Federal law also imposes restrictions on felons possessing body armor (18 U.S.C. § 931), which applies nationwide, including in Colorado. Therefore, individuals with felony convictions should be keenly aware of both state and federal prohibitions.
Frequently asked questions
Is body armor legal in Colorado for travelers?
For travelers visiting Colorado, body armor is currently legal. Colorado law does not explicitly prohibit ordinary citizens from purchasing or possessing body armor. However, like many states, Colorado law (C.R.S. § 18-12-106.5) makes it a felony for certain individuals to possess body armor. Specifically, a person who has been previously convicted of a violent felony as defined in C.R.S. § 18-1.3-406, and who knowingly possesses body armor, commits a class 6 felony. This statute is designed to prevent individuals with a history of serious violent crime from acquiring protection that could be used in further criminal activity. For the vast majority of law-abiding citizens, there are no state-level restrictions on the purchase, possession, or wear of body armor. There are no permits required, and no specific type of body armor (e.g., hard plates, soft armor) is singled out for additional regulation. Federal law also imposes restrictions on felons possessing body armor (18 U.S.C. § 931), which applies nationwide, including in Colorado. Therefore, individuals with felony convictions should be keenly aware of both state and federal prohibitions.
Do I need a permit for body armor in Colorado?
Colorado does not specifically require a permit for body armor, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport body armor through Colorado?
Transport laws for body armor in Colorado depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for body armor violations in Colorado?
Penalties for body armor violations in Colorado vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.