Is Brass Knuckles Legal in District of Columbia? (2026)
No. In District of Columbia, brass knuckles is prohibited. D.C. Code §22-4514(a) expressly restricts possession of knuckles in the District and identifies particular authorized-possession exceptions..
Key facts
- Status
- Prohibited
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- District of Columbia
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Brass Knuckles laws in District of Columbia
D.C. Code §22-4514(a) states that no person within the District shall possess an item that is, in fact, knuckles, among the listed weapons. This explanation addresses that named possession provision; it does not add unsupported blanket claims about manufacture, sale or every use of an object. The same subsection contains a specific proviso covering knuckles and certain other named weapons. It identifies on-duty armed-service, National Guard/Organized Reserve and Post Office categories; specified marshals, sheriffs, prison/jail wardens and deputies; police and other duly appointed law-enforcement officers, including designated MPD civilian employees; duly authorized United States officers/employees; banking institutions; carriers transporting mail, money, securities or other valuables; and wholesale/retail dealers licensed under §22-4510. The exact statutory category and any duty/authorization condition matter. These categories do not establish a general personal knuckles permit. This explanation is limited to the cited provision and does not determine whether a particular object is knuckles, other applicable requirements or retained legal-status/permit fields.
Frequently asked questions
Is brass knuckles legal in District of Columbia for travelers?
For travelers visiting District of Columbia, brass knuckles is currently prohibited. D.C. Code §22-4514(a) states that no person within the District shall possess an item that is, in fact, knuckles, among the listed weapons. This explanation addresses that named possession provision; it does not add unsupported blanket claims about manufacture, sale or every use of an object. The same subsection contains a specific proviso covering knuckles and certain other named weapons. It identifies on-duty armed-service, National Guard/Organized Reserve and Post Office categories; specified marshals, sheriffs, prison/jail wardens and deputies; police and other duly appointed law-enforcement officers, including designated MPD civilian employees; duly authorized United States officers/employees; banking institutions; carriers transporting mail, money, securities or other valuables; and wholesale/retail dealers licensed under §22-4510. The exact statutory category and any duty/authorization condition matter. These categories do not establish a general personal knuckles permit. This explanation is limited to the cited provision and does not determine whether a particular object is knuckles, other applicable requirements or retained legal-status/permit fields.
Do I need a permit for brass knuckles in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia does not specifically require a permit for brass knuckles, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport brass knuckles through District of Columbia?
Transport laws for brass knuckles in District of Columbia depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in District of Columbia, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for brass knuckles violations in District of Columbia?
Penalties for brass knuckles violations in District of Columbia vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.