New York Firearms Safety Course Practice Exam

When can a shooter legally be considered to be in possession of a firearm in New York?

1. When the firearm is in their immediate control

2. Only when the firearm has been registered

3. When the firearm is locked away

4. After passing the firearms safety course

The correct answer is: When the firearm is in their immediate control

The correct answer is that a shooter is legally considered to be in possession of a firearm when the firearm is in their immediate control. This means that if the firearm is within reach, or they can exert influence over it, it qualifies as possession. Immediate control signifies a physical control over the firearm that allows the individual to use or access it as needed. The concept of possession is based on the individual's ability to manipulate or access the firearm quickly, regardless of whether it is on their person, in a vehicle, or stored nearby, as long as they can reach it without unnecessary delay. Being in immediate control does not depend on registration status or specific training courses, which explains why those options do not define possession accurately.