Carrying a firearm for self-defense comes with a lot of responsibility. Knowing the laws where you carry is just one important task you must undertake as an armed American. To help with that, we will be providing you with a summary of basic carry laws for several states. Learn about the most important things to know when carrying in Connecticut, the Constitution State, below.

Permitting in Connecticut

Open carry and concealed carry are legal in Connecticut with a Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP). The minimum age is 21. Connecticut residents, as well as any non-resident with a valid CCW license from his or her home state, can apply for a CTPP. CTPPs require a state-approved firearms training course that includes live-fire exercises. First, an applicant must apply for a temporary permit from the local authorities. Then he or she must submit another application at the state level through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). In terms of reciprocity, Connecticut does not honor permits from any other states. There is a two-step process to obtain a permit.

Stun guns and Tasers are legal for home or business use only; carrying is prohibited. It is also illegal to have an electronic defense weapon in a vehicle. Pepper spray can be carried without a CTPP.

A firearms buyer must have a CTPP or obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for Pistol and Revolvers. Applicants must complete an approved safety course and pass a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check and mental health records check prior to issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility. A purchaser must be at least 21 years old to buy a handgun. Private party firearms transfers require that a federally licensed dealer perform a background check on the buyer. Private sales are allowed between CTPP holders provided the DESPP transfer form is submitted and an authorization number is received.

The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection maintains a de facto registry of the sale of handguns and long guns purchased in-state. Any transfer, be it from a dealer or private party, must be accompanied by an authorization number issued by the DESPP, and a form containing personal and weapon identification must be submitted to DESPP and local police.

Connecticut prohibits handgun magazines that allow more than 10 rounds. Armor-piercing and incendiary .50-caliber ammunition is prohibited. A handgun carry permit, gun sales permit, long-gun/handgun eligibility certificate or ammunition certificate is required to purchase ammunition.

Where Can One Carry in Connecticut?

Anyone with a Connecticut Pistol Permit can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Connecticut. Otherwise, the weapon must be unloaded, and the firearm and ammunition must be stored in separate locked containers during transport.

Locations where a concealed handgun may be carried include:

  • Restaurants that serve alcohol (unless posted)
  • Roadside rest areas

Locations where carry is prohibited, even for permit holders, include:

  • Public or private elementary or secondary school property and school-sponsored activities
  • State/national parks, state/national forests and WMAs, except as authorized by the Department of Environmental Protection
  • Any building in which the chamber of either house of the general assembly is located or in which the official office of any member or committee of the general assembly is located or any building in which a committee is holding a public hearing
  • All town-owned property in Woodbridge
  • Any private property that is posted or where it is prohibited by the person who owns or exercises control over such premises
  • Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation

Visit the USCCA Connecticut gun laws page now…