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Alabama is a shall-issue state with concealed weapons permits issued at the county level by the local sheriff’s office.
There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual.
Alabama allows open carry without a permit. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm can open carry. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and courthouses.
Concealed carry is legal for residents with an Alabama Pistol Permit and for non-residents with a permit from a state that Alabama honors. Alabama does not require the applicant to complete a firearms safety course or otherwise demonstrate knowledge of firearms safety prior to issuance of a pistol permit. Only residents that are at least 18 years old may obtain Alabama pistol permits. However, the county sheriff may issue a permit to active-duty military stationed in Alabama and their spouses. Active duty military veterans that meet the qualifications can obtain or renew their pistol permits free of charge. In terms of reciprocity, Alabama honors all out-of-state concealed carry permits.
Alabama is a Castle Doctrine state. Per Alabama gun laws you do not have a duty to retreat and are allowed to stand your ground, provided you are in a place where you have a right to be and you are not engaged in an unlawful activity.
Use of Force in Defense of Self or Another
A person is justified in using physical force in order to defend himself or herself or a third person from what he or she reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of unlawful physical force by that other person, and he or she may use a degree of force which he or she reasonably believes to be necessary for the purpose.
There are several circumstances in which the law allows a person to use deadly force for self-defense purposes, including:
Use of Force in Defense of Premises
A person in lawful possession or control of premises or a person who is licensed or privileged to be there, may use physical force when and to the extent that he reasonably believes it necessary to prevent or terminate the commission or attempted commission of a criminal trespass by the other person.
A person may use deadly physical force in defense of property only when the person reasonably believes it necessary to prevent the commission of arson in the first or second degree by the trespasser.
Use of Force in Defense of Property Other than Premises
A person is justified in using physical force, other than deadly physical force, upon another person when and to the extent that he reasonably believes it to be necessary to prevent or terminate the commission or attempted commission by the other person of theft or criminal mischief with respect to property other than premises.
Civil and Criminal Immunity
A person who uses force, including deadly physical force, as justified and permitted in this section is immune from criminal prosecution and civil action for the use of such force, unless the force was determined to be unlawful.
Constitutional Carry?Does Alabama allow constitutional carry? |
No. |
Open Carry Permitted?Is open carry permitted in Alabama? |
Yes, without a permit. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm can open carry. |
Gun Permit Licensure?If Alabama requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? |
Shall issue, with discretion. |
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?What is the minimum age in Alabama to get a concealed carry permit? |
18. |
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Alabama with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? |
No. |
Tasers or Stun Guns?Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Alabama? |
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit in most of the state. However, a City Permit from the local police is required in the City of Mobile and stun guns and Tasers are not allowed to be possessed on school property, including storage in a vehicle on school property in the City of Montgomery. [Mobile Code of Ordinances Sec. 62-23] |
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Alabama? |
Yes, provided it is not used against another person in the commission of a crime or against a law enforcement officer while the law enforcement officer is performing his or her official duties. The criminal use of a defense spray is a Class C felony. |
Magazine Limits for Handguns?Does Alabama have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? |
No. |
Ammunition Restrictions?Does Alabama have ammunition restrictions? |
Yes. Alabama law prohibits the possession or sale of brass or steel teflon-coated handgun ammunition and other like ammunition designed to penetrate bullet-proof vests (armor piercing). This prohibition does not apply to the possession or sale of teflon-coated lead or brass ammunition designed to expand upon contact. |
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Carry in Vehicle?Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Alabama? |
Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit or a permit from a state that Alabama honors. Without a permit, handguns must be unloaded and locked in a compartment or container that is in or affixed securely to the vehicle and out of reach of the driver and any passenger in the vehicle. |
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Alabama? |
Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit or a permit from a state that Alabama honors. |
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Alabama? |
Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit or a permit from a state that Alabama honors. Handguns only in state parks and WMAs. [Ala. Admin. Code § 220-2-.08] |
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Alabama? |
Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit or a permit from a state that Alabama honors, unless posted. |
Carry/Possess at a hotel?Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Alabama? |
State law indicates a person may carry a pistol about his person on private property not his own, only if the person has a valid concealed weapon permit or the consent of the owner or legal possessor of the premises. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and you should contact the individual hotel 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?Does Alabama have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? |
A public or private employer may not prohibit the transportation or storage of a lawfully possessed firearm in an employee’s privately owned motor vehicle while parked in a public or private parking area if the employee is a concealed handgun license holder. The firearm must be out of sight while the employee is attending the vehicle. While the vehicle is unattended, the firearm must be kept out of sight and locked within a compartment, container or in the interior of the vehicle, or in a compartment or container securely affixed to the vehicle. |
Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Alabama? |
No. There is no duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Alabama. |
Driver's License Linked to Permit?Is my Alabama driver’s license linked to my Alabama pistol permit? |
No. Your Alabama driver’s license is not linked to your Alabama pistol permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry permit holder immediately when they run your driver’s license. However, LEOs may have access to other databases where they can obtain this information. |
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Alabama? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. |
No. Not mentioned in state statutes. |
Preemption?Does Alabama have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)? |
Yes. There is full state preemption of all gun laws in Alabama. Local authorities are only allowed to pass ordinances that regulate the discharge of firearms and to levy taxes. |
Red Flag Law?Does Alabama have a red flag law? |
No. Alabama does not have a red flag law. |
Brandishing?Does Alabama state law define brandishing? |
No. No definition of brandishing was found in Alabama law. In addition, Alabama code specifically addresses that the mere carrying of a visible pistol, holstered or secured, in a public place, in and of itself, is not considered disorderly conduct. |
Carry While Using Alcohol or Controlled Substances?Does Alabama have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances? |
Not addressed in state statutes. 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. |
Non-Resident Permitting?Does Alabama issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? |
No. |
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?Does Alabama allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? |
No, however the information is available for law enforcement. |
Purchase Permits?Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Alabama? |
No. |
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?Are background checks required for private gun sales in Alabama? |
No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun. |
Alabama Permit Exempts from Background Check?Does my current Alabama concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? |
No. |
Waiting Period?Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Alabama? |
No. |
Handgun Registration?Do handguns Need to Be Registered in Alabama? |
No. |
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Alabama? |
18 years old. However, this does not apply to a transfer by inheritance of title to, but not possession of a pistol to a minor. There are certain instances where a minor can possess a firearm including:
[Ala. Code §§ 13A-11-57, 13A-11-76] |
Possess a handgun on my private property without a permit?Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? |
Yes. A permit is not required for a person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a pistol openly or concealed, on land under the person's control, abode or fixed place of business. |
Alabama Gun Laws: What You Need to Know
USCCA — July 22, 2019
Basic Concealed Carry Laws: Alabama
USCCA — November 1, 2020
Which states' permits does Alabama honor?
Alabama honors all out-of-state concealed carry permits pursuant to section 13A-11-85 of the Alabama Code. Alabama residents must have an Alabama Pistol Permit to carry in the state. Any non-resident who has a concealed carry permit in another U.S. state can legally carry his or her firearm in Alabama but will be subject to Alabama gun laws while in that state.
Which states honor permits from Alabama?
Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.
Anyone who can legally possess a firearm may carry it concealed in permitless carry states without a permit/license. The minimum age* for permitless carry is shown. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old
*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old
Requirements: |
An applicant must:
|
Fees: |
New Permits and Renewals - Set by county sheriff, but generally $20 per year, so $100 for a 5-year permit. (Effective January 1, 2022, 1-year or 5-year permit fees will be determined by local law. If there is no law on the subject, $25 per year or $300 for lifetime, or $150 for lifetime if the applicant is over 60 years of age) Active Duty Military Veterans/Retirees |
Valid For: |
Applicant chooses between 1 to 5 years. |
Processing Time: |
30 days |
Application: |
Check online for your county sheriff’s office. Some have applications available for download. |
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits: |
Alabama doesn't issue permits to non-residents, except the county sheriff may issue a permit to active-duty military stationed in Alabama and their spouses. |
Name/Address Changes: |
You will need to contact the local county sheriff to change the information on your permit. |
Lost/Stolen Permits: |
You will need to contact your county sheriff to obtain a new permit. |
Residency Changes: |
Moving to Alabama and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply? Moving from Alabama and have a Alabama resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Alabama permit remains valid? |
How to Apply for an Alabama Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
Obtain the application form from your local county sheriff. Some counties have a permit application that can be downloaded from their website. Elmore County now has an online permitting system. |
Step 2: |
Complete the form. |
Step 3: |
Submit your application to the sheriff’s office in your county. |
Step 4: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
Alabama does not require the applicant to complete a firearms safety course or otherwise demonstrate knowledge of firearms safety prior to issuance of a pistol permit. However, the USCCA recommends that anyone who makes the choice to carry a concealed firearm obtain as much training as possible in order to be a responsibly armed American.
How to Renew an Alabama Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
You must renew an Alabama Pistol Permit before it expires. Mail or bring your old pistol license to your county sheriff’s office and complete a renewal application. Some counties have an option to renew online. |
Step 2: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved within 30 days of receipt of a complete application. |
Law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs may choose to carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), often referred to as HR 218. Under 18 U.S. Code §§ 926B & 926C, qualified LEOs and qualified retired LEOs, or those separated from service in good standing, can carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States, regardless of state or local laws, with some exceptions. For details, check out our Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) page.
Alabama does not have a designated state agency that is responsible for LEOSA matters, so no qualification card is issued by Alabama.
The Alabama Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission (POST) is responsible for the oversight and regulation of firearms qualification issues for active, state-certified law enforcement officers.
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Alabama? |
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Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Alabama?Places off-limits even with a permit/license |
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What Are the Knife Laws in Alabama? |
Most types of knives are legal and can be carried concealed, except Bowie knives and anything similar to them. It is illegal to have a Bowie knife in a vehicle. |
Wear a COVID Mask & Carry?I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Alabama, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed? |
There is a law in Alabama that prohibits people from wearing masks while loitering in public. However, the state’s attorney general said in April 2020, his office would not be enforcing that law during the pandemic. |
Carry While Gun Hunting?Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Alabama? |
Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit, provided the handgun is for your personal protection and is not used to hunt, take or to attempt to take wildlife except as otherwise provided by law or regulation. |
Carry While Bow Hunting?Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Alabama? |
Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit, provided the handgun is for your personal protection and is not used to hunt, take or to attempt to take wildlife except as otherwise provided by law or regulation. |
Hunter Harassment Law?Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Alabama? |
Yes. No person shall willfully and knowingly prevent, obstruct, impede, disturb, or interfere with, or attempt to prevent, obstruct, impede, disturb, or interfere with any person in legally hunting or fishing pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the law of the State of Alabama. |
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| 2021-05-17 | Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table |
| 2020-09-03 | Added information on Self Defense in the Summary |
| 2020-06-30 | Added information on wearing a COVID 19 mask while carrying concealed above the Summary |
| 2020-06-04 | Added info and statutory links for ammunition restrictions in At A Glance table |
| 2020-05-05 | Added info on handguns at hotels in At A Glance table |
| 2020-04-17 | Added info on handguns on private property in At A Glance table |
| 2020-04-03 | Added info on private gun sales in At A Glance table |
| 2020-02-24 | Added info on carry in bars to the At A Glance table |
| 2020-02-18 | Added related blog posts with links |
| 2020-02-11 | Added info regarding residency changes and resulting impacts on carry permits |
| 2020-01-27 | Updated the knife laws and added statutory references |
| 2019-12-04 | Added info on whether a valid state ccw permit exempts a person from needing a background check to the At A Glance table |
| 2019-11-14 | Added statutory references and links for can’t carry locations |
| 2019-10-31 | Added brandishing info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-10-11 | Added Hunter Harassment info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-09-30 | Added Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray to the At A Glance table |
| 2019-08-29 | Added Carry While Hunting info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-08-13 | Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary |
| 2019-07-24 | Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table |
| 2019-05-20 | Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-04-25 | Added permit renewal and name/address change info |
| 2019-04-16 | Links checked |
| 2019-03-14 | Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act(LEOSA) |
| 2019-02-20 | Added info to vehicle carry in At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-15 | Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology |
| 2019-02-13 | Based on a member's comment, added info to the Genl Info and Permit Fees sections re: military vets obtaining/renewing permits free of charge |
| 2019-02-12 | Added ammunition restrictions to At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-06 | Added red flag law info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-25 | Links checked |
| 2019-01-24 | Added info about alcohol or prescription medication to At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-22 | Added church info to location restrictions section |
| 2019-01-10 | Mag limit info added to At A Glance table |
Here at the USCCA, it is our mission to provide responsible gun owners with the tools they need to be educated and trained. Our team is constantly working to provide you with the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of self-defense laws available for every state.
If you have any questions that you don’t see answered here — let us know! Just email [email protected] and we will be sure to get your question resolved. Your feedback matters to us, and we appreciate you helping to make this page the best possible resource for responsible gun owners!
Permit numbers were obtained from the Crime Prevention Resource Center’s publication entitled, “Concealed Carry Permit Holders Across the United States.” Numbers include resident and non-resident permits for those states that issue both.
The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community, and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
If you have any questions regarding USCCA Membership, Delta Defense, handguns laws or the lawful process of carrying concealed, please contact the award-winning Delta Defense Customer Engagement Team.
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