Whether you’re new to owning a firearm or have had a gun for home defense for years, getting a concealed carry permit may seem daunting. It doesn’t have to be. There are many reasons and ways to carry a concealed weapon, but the first step is knowing the laws. Applying for a CCW varies by state. Read about the process for getting a Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) below.

Similar to permit requirements, states vary greatly in their processes for how an applicant obtains a concealed handgun permit, what their permits/licenses are called, whether licenses include photographs, whether fingerprinting is required, license duration, license costs and turnaround times. Some states allow an applicant to complete an application online, while others require an in-person visit to the office of the respective issuing authority. There are even states that require the applicant to provide a list of non-related character references.

Concealed Carry Permit Basics

Louisiana is a shall-issue state. Shall-issue means licensing authorities are compelled to issue a license as long as an applicant meets the basic requirements set out by state law. Concealed weapons permits are processed at the state level by the Department of Public Safety.

Concealed carry is legal for residents with a Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) and for non-residents with a permit/license from a state recognized by Louisiana. CHPs are available for residents and members of the military permanently stationed in Louisiana. Louisiana does not issue non-resident permits. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, a resident of Louisiana and complete a firearms training course. There are exemptions for non-residents who are in the military and have a Louisiana driver’s license or Louisiana state ID.

Federally Prohibited Persons

The Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 and the Federal Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act of 1997 make it illegal for a person who fits into any of the prohibited categories to ship, transport, receive or possess firearms or ammunition. These laws prevent a state from issuing a concealed handgun permit/license as it would be illegal for people who fit in these categories, by federal law, to own or possess a gun.

What Are the License Requirements in Louisiana?

An applicant must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Have completed a firearms training course
  • Be a resident of the state of Louisiana or a member of the military permanently stationed in Louisiana
  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Not have been convicted of a misdemeanor in this or any other state relating to a controlled dangerous substance within the last 5 years
  • Not have been convicted of a crime of violence within the last 5 years
  • Not have been convicted of a crime of violence or any crime punishable by imprisonment for a term of 1 year or greater. However, a person who has been convicted of a violation of 18 U.S.C. 491(a) shall be permitted to qualify for a concealed handgun permit if 15 or more years have elapsed
  • Not have a history of engaging in violent behavior (There is a rebuttable presumption that an applicant has a history of engaging in violent behavior upon proof that, within the last 10 years, the applicant has, on three or more occasions, been arrested for or charged with any “crime of violence,” or has on two or more occasions been arrested for or charged with any crime of violence punishable by death.)
  • Not have had a permit revoked within 4 years prior to the most recent application
  • Not have had a permit denied within 1 year prior to the most recent application
  • Not be a fugitive from justice
  • Not be an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana, depressants, stimulants or narcotic drugs
  • Not have been adjudicated to be mentally deficient or been committed to a mental institution (unless the applicant’s right to possess a firearm has been legally restored)
  • Not have been dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces of the United States, and
  • Meet federal law requirements

 Do I Need Firearms Training in Louisiana?

Yes. An applicant shall demonstrate competence with a handgun by any one of the following:

  • Completion of any National Rifle Association handguns safety or training course conducted by a National Rifle Association certified instructor
  • Completion of any Department of Public Safety and Corrections approved firearms safety or training course or class available to the public offered by a law enforcement agency, college, or private or public institution or organization or firearms training school
  • Completion of any law enforcement firearms safety or training course or class approved by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections and offered for security guards, investigators, special deputies, or any division or subdivision of law enforcement or security enforcement
  • Completion of small arms training while serving with the Armed Forces of the United States of America as evidenced by a DD-214 or service record evidence of having successfully completed small arms training and qualification
  • Completion of the National Rifle Association’s personal protection course

Refresher training is required for all permit renewal applications.

A Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals Class from the USCCA meets permitting requirements in Louisiana. Find a class near you!

How Do I Get a Concealed Handgun Permit in Louisiana?

Step 1: Complete a firearm training course if required.

Step 2: Download the application form or apply online.

Step 3: Contact your local police office, sheriff’s department or State Police Headquarters in Baton Rouge for fingerprinting.

Step 4: You will need some of the following documents:

    • Application with the three affidavits completed and notarized
    • Copy of Louisiana driver’s license or state identification card
    • Correct fee
    • Proof of training
    • Two sets of fingerprints on an FBI Applicant Card
    • Marital Status – If you are divorced, copies of the divorce settlement, decree or final judgment along with any orders or injunctions of the court must be included
    • Arrests – If you have been arrested, you must include certified-true copies of court minutes as requested in the “Arrests, Detention and Litigation Section” of the application. You must still list violations that were EXPUNGED, DISMISSED or SET ASIDE or for which you were PARDONED
    • Military – If you have served in the Armed Forces of the United States, you must include a copy of your DD-214. If you are currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States, you must include a copy of your current orders or a copy of your military ID if allowed
    • Medical Summary Disposition – If you answered “yes” to any medical questions in #13-19, the Medical Summary must be completed by the treating physician. This information MUST be included with your application.

Step 5: Submit your application and documents by mail to:

Louisiana State Police
Concealed Handgun Permit Unit
P.O. Box 66375
Baton Rouge, LA 70896

You will be notified if your application has been approved.

 

 For more information, visit the USCCA Louisiana gun laws page now…