Yes, if you are buying a handgun; no, for a long gun (rifle or shotgun). When purchasing a handgun in North Carolina, you need a current, valid NC state-issued form of identification and either an NC Pistol Purchase Permit or a North Carolina Concealed Carry Handgun permit. To purchase a long gun, you only need to show a current, valid NC state-issued form of identification and must pass a US government background check during the sale.