Connecticut is a may-issue state, meaning that local law enforcement has discretion in determining whether or not to issue a permit to carry a handgun to an applicant based on a “suitability clause”. The suitability clause applies both to the issuance of new permits and revocation of existing permits. There is a two-step process to obtain a permit. First, an applicant must apply for a temporary permit from the local authorities and then they must submit another application at the state level through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP).
In order to purchase a handgun, a buyer must have a Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP) or obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for Pistol and Revolvers or Long Guns or Ammunition. A background check is required to buy a handgun from a private individual — private party firearms transfers are required to be performed by a federally licensed dealer.
Concealed carry is legal in Connecticut with a CTPP. The minimum age is 21. Open carry is now illegal as of 10/1/2023. Connecticut residents as well as non-residents with a valid CCW license from their home state can apply for a CTPP. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and state parks. CTPPs require a state-approved firearms training course that includes live-fire exercises. In terms of reciprocity, Connecticut does not honor permits from any other states.
Where can I carry with my Connecticut permit?
Yes
Yes, Constitutional Carry
Yes, Other Restrictions
No
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Important Firearm Laws
carry while using alcohol or drugs?
It is illegal to carry while under the influence of intoxicating liquor (BAC of 0.08 or greater) or any drug, or both.
[Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53-206d]
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
duty to inform officer you're carrying?
No. There is no duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Connecticut.
red flag law?
Yes. Connecticut has a red flag law. A state’s attorney, or any two police officers, may file a complaint for seizure of firearms or ammunition. In addition, as of September 1, 2021, a family member, social worker, health care worker, clergy or other concerned community member is able to notify the court directly about a person who is in possession of a firearm and has threatened to harm herself, himself or another person and ask the court to issue an order to remove firearms from the possession of the person issuing such threats or committing acts of violence.
"no weapons allowed" signs enforced?
Yes. A person cannot possess or carry a pistol or revolver in or on any premises where prohibited by law, or prohibited by the person who owns or exercises control over such premises.
Any person violating any provision of section 29-28 or 29-31 shall be guilty of a class E felony, and any pistol or revolver found in the possession of any person in violation of any of said provisions shall be forfeited.
preemption?
No. There is no state preemption of firearms laws in Connecticut. Therefore, local authorities may regulate firearms and ammunition.
non-resident permitting?
Yes, to individuals who hold a valid permit/license issued by a recognized United States jurisdiction.
"assault weapons" ban?
Yes. Connecticut broadly prohibits any person from possessing an assault weapon. Individuals who owned an assault weapon before it was prohibited may continue to possess the assault weapon if they obtain a certificate of possession before the appropriate deadline. The state also prohibits any person from distributing, transporting, importing into the state, keeping, offering or exposing for sale, or giving an assault weapon to any person.
You can find a list of weapons here.
public access to concealed carry registry?
No, however the information is available for law enforcement.
driver's license linked to permit?
Yes. Your Connecticut driver’s license is linked to your Connecticut pistol permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry permit holder if they run your driver’s license.
brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Connecticut law. However, a person is guilty of disorderly conduct when, with intent to cause inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof, such person engages in fighting or in violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior.
[Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53a-182]
A person is guilty of breach of the peace in the second degree when, with intent to cause inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof, such person engages in fighting or in violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior in a public place; or assaults or strikes another; or threatens to commit any crime against another person or such other person's property; or creates a public and hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act which such person is not licensed or privileged to do.
Carry Basics
weapons other than handguns allowed?
No.
minimum age for concealed carry?
21.
gun permit licensure?
May-issue.
constitutional carry?
No.
magazine limits for handguns?
No more than 10 rounds.
“Large capacity magazine” means any firearm magazine, belt, drum, feed strip or similar device that has the capacity of, or can be readily restored or converted to accept, more than ten rounds of ammunition, but does not include: a feeding device that has been permanently altered so that it cannot accommodate more than ten rounds of ammunition, a .22 caliber tube ammunition feeding device, or a magazine that is permanently inoperable. Any person who distributes, imports into the state, keeps for sale, offers or exposes for sale, or purchases a high-capacity magazine is criminally liable for a class D felony.
There is also a grandfather provision for high-capacity magazines possessed prior to January 1, 2014.
open carry permitted?
As of October 1st, 2023, no person shall knowingly carry any firearm openly, except in your home, on your land, or at a business you own.
ammunition restrictions?
Yes. Armor-piercing and incendiary .50-caliber ammunition is prohibited. A handgun carry permit, gun sales permit, long-gun/handgun eligibility certificate or an ammunition certificate is required to purchase ammunition. Ammunition certificates are issued by the state's Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection after a background check and must be renewed every 5 years.
non-lethal weapons?
STUN GUNS - As of July 1, 2021, "electronic defense weapons" (e.g., stun guns) can be carried as long as the individual is 21 years old or older and possess a valid firearms credential (i.e., a handgun or long gun eligibility certificate, permit to carry or sell handguns, or ammunition certificate).
PEPPER SPRAY - Legal for self-defense purposes. There are no restricitons on size or concentration, and can be purchased, owned, and carried anywhere in Connecticut. Misuse may result in criminal charges.
BEAR SPRAY - Legal for self-defense against wildlife. There are no state-specific restrictions, but misuse against humans could lead to criminal charges.
BLUGEONS AND BATONS - Expandable batons are illegal to carry outside of your home under Connecticut General Statute § 53-206. This includes police batons, nightsticks, billy clubs, slapjacks, and similar items. These are classified as "dangerous weapons," making their possession outside the home punishable.
NUNCHUCKS - prohibited unless specifically authorized for training purposes.
BRASS KNUCKLES - Illegal to carry outside of your home under Connecticut General Statute § 53-206.
byrna's
Yes and no. They are legal to own in Connecticut as they are not classified as firearms. However, carrying a Byrna gun outside the home may fall under restrictions similar to those for other "dangerous weapons" under Connecticut law. It is recommended to consult local authorities before carrying a Byrna in public.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
handgun purchase process
To purchase a handgun in Connecticut, either through an FFL Dealer directly or through a private transaction, a buyer must have either a Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP), an Eligibility Certificate/Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols or a Revolvers/Non-Resident Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers. The eligibility certificate and CTPP application can be obtained online at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) website or in person at any state police barracks.
Effective 10/1/23, persons can no longer purchase or receive more than 3 handguns in a 30-day period, certified instructors up to 6 handguns in a 30-day period. Exceptions for police departments, exchanges of pistols at the same FFL within 30 days, transfers to museums, antique pistols, and transfers between FFLs. Violation are a class C felony.
For DESPP pistol permit locations, access www.ct.gov/despp and follow the link to the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit.
Top Gun Laws & Concealed Carry Permit Information For Connecticut Residents
Concealed Carry Basics Faq
carry while bow hunting?
No. Per the Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection's 2019 Hunting and Trapping Guide, possession of a firearm while archery hunting is prohibited.
hunter harassment law?
Yes. No person shall obstruct or interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife by another person at the location where the activity is taking place with intent to prevent such taking.
wear a covid mask & carry?
There is no known statute in Connecticut making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. A statute was identified that makes it illegal to wear a mask, hood or other device designed to conceal the identity of such person with the intent to subject any other person to the deprivation of any rights or privileges.
what are the knife laws in connecticut?
All types of knives are legal to own, although there are a number of restrictions on what can be carried open or concealed. Stilettos, blackjacks, dirks, automatic knives, switchblades with blades longer than 1.5 inches and any knives with blades longer than 4 inches are illegal to carry and transport. There are exceptions to carry for members of the military, when transporting to a gun show, historic reenactments, among others.
carry while gun hunting?
No. Per the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, firearms are only allowed by individuals that are actively engaged in permitted hunting, meaning in locations that hunting is permitted, with a current license, in the proper season, and with the appropriate firearm and ammunition for the animal being hunted.
Name/Address Changes:
The law requires that you notify the issuing authority within 48 hours of changing your address. Persons holding state pistol permits may contact SLFU by phone at (860) 685-8290, via email at Special Licensing and Firearms Unit or by mailing a letter to:
Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Division of State Police Special Licensing and Firearms Unit 1111 Country Club Road Middletown, CT 06457
Include your name, permit number, old address and new address.
Fees:
$105
Plus fingerprint and background check fees.
$70 for renewals
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits:
Connecticut issues non-resident permits to individuals who hold a valid permit/license issued by a recognized United States jurisdiction. The process can be done through the mail by submitting the required documentation to the DESPP at the address above.
Application:
Lost/Stolen Permits:
File a police report in the area in which the theft or loss occurred. Then contact the issuing authority and notify them of the theft or loss. You will then have to go to the state police headquarters or a troop location where pistol permits are processed and pay a $5.00 processing fee for issuance of a duplicate permit.
RESIDENCY CHANGES:
Moving to Connecticut and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply?Connecticut issues permits to residents and non-residents who hold a valid permit/license issued by a recognized United States jurisdiction, so you can apply for your permit at any time.
Moving from Connecticut and have a Connecticut resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Connecticut permit remains valid?If a person with a Connecticut pistol permit establishes residency in another state, the permit is valid until it expires provided you notify the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit of the change of address and continue to renew your permit.
Valid For:
5 years
Requirements:
An applicant must:
*Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Connecticut.
Processing Time:
60 days
Step 1:
Complete a handgun safety course.
Step 2:
Download the application (DPS-799-C).
Step 3:
Take the unsigned, completed application to the local chief of police, city or town hall or first selectman of your town. (Non-residents apply to the DESPP.) You will sign it in the presence of an official and need the following documents:
Pay the fees.
Step 4:
Upon approval, the local authority will issue a Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers/Eligibility Certificate effective for 60 days.
Step 5:
Within the 60 day period, go to a DESPP, Division of State Police, pistol permit location and complete the State Application to Carry Pistols and Revolvers. You will need the following:
Pay the fee.
Your photograph will be taken.
Step 6:
Upon approval, your permit will be issued.
carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and wildlife management areas (wmas)?
Yes and no. Carrying open or concealed firearms for self defense is not permitted on state/national park or state/national forest properties. Per the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, firearms are only allowed by individuals that are actively engaged in permitted hunting, meaning in locations that hunting is permitted, with a current license, in the proper season, and with the appropriate firearm and ammunition for the animal being hunted.
[Conn. Admin. Rule § 23-4-1][Atty Genl. Opinion 2010-R-0472]
Carrying open or concealed firearms is allowed on portions of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Connecticut and the Weir Farm National Historical Park only with a valid CT Pistol permit.
carry at roadside rest areas?
Yes.
carry/possess at a hotel?
A permit to carry a handgun does not authorize a person to carry a handgun on any premises where the possession or carrying of a handgun is prohibited by the person who owns or controls the premises. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
store in a vehicle in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in Connecticut state law, although employers may have a policy.
carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry with a valid CT Pistol Permit, unless posted.
carry in vehicle?
Yes, with a valid CT Pistol Permit only. Otherwise, the weapon must be unloaded and the firearm and ammunition must be stored in separate locked containers during transport. As of October 1, 2019, any pistol or revolver in an unattended motor vehicle must be in the trunk, a locked safe or locked glove box or in a locked toolbox or utility box attached to the bed of a pickup truck.
tribal land
Mashantucket Pequot Tribe of Connecticut - No
Mohegan Indian Tribe of Connecticut - With a valid Permit issued by the Department of Public Safety. Sec. 6-121
Self-Defense
The Castle Doctrine is incorporated into Connecticut law governing the use of physical force in defense of premises. Although there is no duty to retreat in a person’s home, there is a duty to retreat outside of one’s home.
Use of Physical Force in Defense of Premises
A person in possession or control of premises, or a person who is licensed or privileged to be in or upon such premises, is justified in using reasonable physical force when and to the extent that he or she reasonably believes such to be necessary to prevent or terminate the commission or attempted commission of a criminal trespass. But a person may use deadly physical force under such circumstances only:
Use of Physical Force in Defense of Person
A person is justified in using reasonable physical force to defend the person or a third person from what he or she reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of physical force, and the person may use such degree of force which is reasonably believed to be necessary for such purpose; except that deadly physical force may not be used unless the actor reasonably believes that such other person is using or about to use deadly physical force, or inflicting or about to inflict great bodily harm.
Use of Physical Force in Defense of Property
A person is justified in using reasonable physical force when and to the extent that he or she reasonably believes it to be necessary to prevent an attempt to commit larceny or criminal mischief involving property or larceny; but he or she may use deadly physical force only in defense of person.
Connecticut Gun Law Updates
DateDetails
2025-04-01
Added non-lethal weapons under Carry Basics section.
2024-11-13
Added Tribal Land section to map
2023-10-01
Updated to reflect new open carry law in effect for 10/1
2021-09-01
Updated red flag law info per SB 219 to At A Glance table
2021-05-17
Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2021-03-02
Added Bluff Point Coastal Reserve to locations off limits to concealed carry
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