Do you have to have a permit or a license for bowie knives? You should certainly know the answer for this important question. Actually, you will find that you do not have to have a permit or licensing of any type to own bowie knives. That said, this applies only to your own home. Taking your knife outside of your home might change the rules just a little bit. How do you know what laws apply to your area? How do you know if you can safely take your knife out of your home without worrying about facing criminal charges?