2026 IDPA Rule Documents Update
IDPA Regional Area Coordinator Leads have announced updates to the sport rulebooks with highlighted revisions listed below. Look for a detailed article on the revisions in the first quarter of the Tactical Journal. These updates will take effect on January 15, 2026. Please reach out to your Area Coordinator or International Point of Contact with questions.
2026 IDPA Rulebook:
2.2.3– A Firearm with a non-functional manual safety is a DQ.
2.9.1.3– Muzzle exclusion Zone only required for doorknobs and handles.
3.2.1.5– Targets in the open are a higher priority than targets available from cover.
3.2.3 – Update the definition of activated targets and how they can be engaged.
3.5.10.3– Vision Barriers provide protection for reloads.
5.2.2.4- Intentionally engaging (discharging the firearm) at anything other than a target or an activator is an FP.
8.1.3.5– BUG is now 8+1.
2026 Equipment Appendices:
A.6.2.1.3– .380 ACP removed from BUG.
2026 Match Administration Rules:
M-3.2.18 – All classes must be recognized at Tier Two Matches.
M-4.1 – Awards are required to 5th place.
M-18.7 – Match Performance Promotion revised to beating 10.
You can view the new documents on our website: