Indiana Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws
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Summary of Indiana Gun Laws
Indiana is a shall-issue state with Licenses being issued by the Indiana State Police.
There is no License required to purchase a firearm, and firearms do not need to be registered. Only Indiana residents or residents of neighboring states who are at least 18 years old can buy long guns. To buy a handgun, you must be at least 21 years old and a resident of Indiana.
Open carry and concealed carry are legal without a permit. Individuals 18 years old or older not prohibited from carrying or possessing a handgun are no longer required to obtain a license to carry a handgun as of July 1, 2022.
Self-Defense
Indiana is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. There is no duty to retreat if deadly force is necessary to prevent serious bodily injury to the person or a third person or the commission of a forcible felony.
Defense of Self or Others
A person is justified in using reasonable force to protect the person or a third person from what the person reasonably believes to be the imminent use of unlawful force. However, a person is justified in using deadly force if the person reasonably believes that that force is necessary to prevent serious bodily injury to the person or a third person or the commission of a forcible felony.
Defense of Place
A person is justified in using reasonable force, including deadly force, and does not have a duty to retreat if the person reasonably believes that the force is necessary to prevent or terminate the other person’s unlawful entry of or attack on the person’s dwelling, curtilage or occupied motor vehicle.
Defense of Property
With respect to property other than a dwelling, curtilage, or an occupied motor vehicle, a person is justified in using reasonable force if the person reasonably believes that the force is necessary to immediately prevent or terminate the other person’s trespass on or criminal interference with property lawfully in the person’s possession, the possession of a member of the person’s immediate family, or belonging to a person whose property the person has authority to protect. However, a person is justified in using deadly force only if that force is justified.
Immunity
No person in this state shall be placed in legal jeopardy of any kind whatsoever for protecting the person or a third person by reasonable means necessary.
[Ind. Code § 35-41-3-2]
Indiana Gun Laws at a Glance
Carry Basics
Constitutional Carry?Does Indiana allow constitutional carry? |
Yes. Constitutional carry went into effect on July 1st, 2022. It allows anyone who is at least 18 years old that can legally possess a firearm to carry openly or concealed without a license. |
Open Carry Permitted?Is open carry permitted in Indiana? |
Yes. |
Gun Permit Licensure?If Indiana requires a License to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued? |
Indiana is a shall issue state. |
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?What is the minimum age in Indiana to get a concealed carry license? |
You must be at least 18 years old to get a concealed carry license in Indiana. |
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Indiana with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)? |
Yes. A concealed carry license in Indiana allows the carry of Tasers. |
Tasers or Stun Guns?Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Indiana? |
Yes. However, stun guns and Tasers are regulated differently in Indiana. Stun guns are legal to purchase and possess without a license for anyone at least 18 years old. Tasers can only be carried with a valid concealed carry license. [Ind. Code §§ 35-47-8-4, 35-47-8-5 and 35-31.5-2-86 ] |
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Indiana? |
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Indiana. |
MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS?Does Indiana have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? |
No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Indiana. |
AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS?Does Indiana have ammunition restrictions? |
Yes. Armor-piercing handgun ammunition is prohibited. |
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Carry Locations
Carry in Vehicle?Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Indiana? |
Yes. The Gun Owners’ Bill of Rights provided by Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita states, "Handguns, shotguns, and rifles are allowed in the vehicles of all persons 18 years of age and older who have not been deemed an 'improper person' by the state." Any 'proper person,' as defined in Indiana Code Section 35-47-1-7, may have a handgun in his or her vehicle without a license. An individual without a license may carry a handgun in a vehicle that is owned, leased, rented or otherwise legally controlled by him or her or legally controlled by another person, if the handgun is:
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Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Indiana? |
Yes. Concealed carry is permitted at roadside rest areas in Indiana. |
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 Indiana? |
Yes, a person with a valid Indiana carry license, may possess a handgun in our state parks with two exceptions. It is not allowed at DNR State Parks & Reservoir properties on land leased from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (e.g., Mississinewa, Salamonie, Patoka, Brookville, Cagles Mill, Cecil M. Harden and Monroe lakes) or at Falls of the Ohio State Park. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Indiana. |
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Indiana? |
Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry with a valid license in bars or restaurants, unless posted. |
Carry/Possess at a hotel?Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Indiana? |
Indiana statutes don't specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and 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?Does Indiana have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? |
No person may adopt or enforce an ordinance, resolution, policy or rule that prohibits an employee from possessing a firearm or ammunition that is locked in the trunk of the employee’s vehicle, kept in the glove compartment of the employee’s locked vehicle, or stored out of plain sight in the employee’s locked vehicle. This restriction does not apply in various, specifically named locations including school property and private residences (see section (2)(b) for the list of locations). |
Key State Laws
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 Indiana? |
No, there is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Indiana. |
DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry License?Is my Indiana driver’s license linked to my Indiana carry license? |
No. Your Indiana driver’s license is not linked to your Indiana carry license. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry license holder immediately when they run your driver’s license. However, LEOs have access to that information by entering your name and date of birth. |
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Indiana? 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. "No Weapons Allowed" signs are not enforced in Indiana. |
Preemption?Does Indiana have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)? |
Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Indiana, except local municipalities may prohibit the possession of a handgun in buildings containing courtrooms. There are several other areas they may restrict, however, none of the following apply to concealed carry license holders. These include the following:
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Red Flag Law?Does Indiana have a red flag law? |
Yes, Indiana has a red flag law. |
Brandishing?Does Indiana state law define brandishing? |
No definition of brandishing was found in Indiana law. However, a person who knowingly or intentionally points a firearm at another person commits a crime. Criminal Recklessness - A person who recklessly, knowingly or intentionally performs an act that creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to another person commits criminal recklessness. |
Carry While Using Alcohol or Prescription Medication?Does Indiana have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or prescription medication? |
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 Indiana issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents? |
Yes. Non-resident licenses are granted for out-of-state residents who have a regular place of business or employment in Indiana |
PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?Does Indiana allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? |
No. However, concealed carry registry information is available for law enforcement. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession
Purchase Permits?Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Indiana? |
No. A permit is not required to purchase a handgun in Indiana. |
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?Are background checks required for private gun sales in Indiana? |
No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. |
Indiana license Exempts from Background Check?Does my current Indiana concealed carry license 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 Indiana? |
No. There is no waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Indiana. |
Handgun Registration?Do handguns need to be registered in Indiana? |
No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Indiana. |
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Indiana? |
18 years old. The minimum age to possess and transport a gun in Indiana is 18 years old. |
Possess a handgun on my private property without a license?Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license? |
Yes. Carrying a handgun is permitted for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a handgun in or on the person’s property or on property another person legally controls if that person consents to the carrying of a handgun on the property. |
Related Blog Posts
Indiana Gun Laws: What You Need to Know
USCCA — May 13, 2019
Basic Concealed Carry Laws: Indiana
USCCA — March 29, 2020
Have Questions? Contact Our Award-Winning, Wisconsin-Based Member Services Team 24/7 at 800-674-9779
State Constitutional Provision
Indiana Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
Which states' permits does Indiana honor?
Indiana honors resident and non-resident permits from all states and jurisdictions.
Territories: Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands
Other States' Reciprocity With Indiana
Which states honor permits from Indiana?
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.
States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Indiana
Indiana offers resident and non-resident (out-of-state residents who have a regular place of business or employment in Indiana) licenses. If indicated with “Resident only” below, that state only honors Indiana resident licenses (and not those issued to non-residents).
Permitless Carry States
*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old
*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old
Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
Indiana Concealed Carry License Information
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 Indiana. |
Fees: |
As of July 1, 2021,
There are fees for IDEMIA Electronic Fingerprinting and background checks. |
Valid For: |
An applicant has an option to obtain a License that is valid for 5 years or for a lifetime. |
Processing Time: |
60 days |
Application: |
|
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses: |
Out-of-state residents who have a regular place of business or employment in Indiana qualify for a 4-year personal-protection firearm license. Your local agency will be the sheriff of the county in which you have a regular place of business or employment. The following documents will be required:
The process is the same as for residents. |
Name/Address Changes: |
To update your name or address on your Indiana Handgun License, log in to the Indiana State Police Handgun Licensing Portal and follow the prompts to update your information. |
Lost/Stolen Licenses: |
To obtain a duplicate Indiana Handgun License, log in to the Indiana State Police Handgun Licensing Portal and follow the prompts to request your duplicate. |
Residency Changes: |
Moving to Indiana and interested in applying for a license? How soon can you apply? Moving from Indiana and have an Indiana resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Indiana license remains valid? |
Indiana Concealed Carry License Application Process
How to Apply for a Indiana Concealed Carry License
Step 1: |
Complete a Handgun License Application online. Once you complete Step 1, you will have only 180 days to complete Steps 2 and 3. |
Step 2: |
Schedule an appointment to electronically submit your fingerprints. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your local law enforcement agency. |
Step 3: |
Complete local law enforcement (sheriff or municipal police) agency processing within 180 days. |
Step 4: |
Your application will be electronically transmitted to ISP for final review. If your application is approved, your permit will be sent to you via U.S. Mail. If your application is rejected, you will be notified via U.S. Mail and will receive instructions on how to file an appeal. |
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Indiana Licenses to Carry Handguns are either “qualified” or “unlimited.” A qualified license will be issued for hunting and target practice only. An unlimited license is issued for the purpose of the protection of life and property. |
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Firearms Training Requirements in Indiana
No firearms training is required in Indiana. 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.
Find a USCCA Certified Instructor or Firearms Training Class Near You
Indiana Concealed Carry License Renewal Process
How to Renew a Indiana Concealed Carry License
Step 1: |
Renewals are the responsibility of the licensee. Complete a Handgun License Application online at the Indiana State Police Handgun Licensing Portal. |
Step 2: |
Schedule an appointment to submit your fingerprints electronically at a location convenient to you. |
Step 3: |
Within 90 days you MUST visit your local law enforcement agency and bring your:
Your application WILL EXPIRE 90 days after you submit the application online. If your application expires, you must update your status:
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Step 4: |
If your application is approved, your license will be sent to you via U.S. Mail. If your application is rejected, you will be notified via U.S. Mail and will receive instructions on how to file an appeal. |
Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)/Retired LEOs
Law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs (RLEOs) 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.
Indiana adopted Ind. Code §§ 35-47-15-1 through 15-6 that mirror the Federal LEOSA requirements. The Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) has a retired officer handgun qualification course for police officers in Indiana that have separated from service as qualified RLEOs under Public Law 108-277. Successful completion results in the retiree being issued a LEOSA Training and Qualification Card. This card, when accompanied by a Retired LEO ID, will provide the necessary documentation that the retiree has qualified within the last 12 months. Course dates and qualification information can be found on the ILEA website.
Indiana Location Restrictions
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Indiana? |
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Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Indiana?Places off-limits even with a permit/license |
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FAQ: Indiana Concealed Carry Questions
What Are the Knife Laws in Indiana? |
Ballistic knives and throwing stars are illegal. There are no limits to open or concealed carry as long as you do not bring a knife to school or on a school bus. [Ind. Code Ann. §§ 35-47-5-2, 35-47-5-2.5 & 35-47-5-12] |
WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY?I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Indiana, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed? |
There is no known statute in Indiana making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. In addition, a representative from the office of Gov. Eric Holcomb has indicated that a protective COVID-19 mask does not interfere with the ability to carry. |
CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING?Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Indiana? |
Yes, an individual may carry a handgun while hunting without a handgun license in accordance with Indiana Code 35-47-2-1. However, it is not legal to take a deer with a handgun except during the firearms and special antlerless seasons, and during the muzzleloader season with a muzzleloading handgun, and in compliance with DNR regulations. [IN Dept of Natural Resources Deer, Turkey and Hunting/Trapping Guides] |
CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING?Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Indiana? |
Yes, however, it is not legal to take a deer with a handgun while bow hunting. |
HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW?Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Indiana? |
Yes. A person who knowingly or intentionally interferes with the legal taking of a game animal by another person with intent to prevent the taking is guilty of hunter harassment. A person who knowingly or intentionally enters or remains upon public land or upon private land without permission of the owner or the owner's agent, with intent to violate this section, is guilty of hunter harassment. |
Related Information & Links for Indiana Gun Laws
Indiana Gun Laws Updates:
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| 2022-03-22 | Added HB 1296, which will permit constitutional carry beginning on July 1, 2022 |
| 2021-05-18 | Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table |
| 2020-11-17 | Added information on church carry on school property in the Location Restrictions section |
| 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 |
| 2020-06-26 | Added link to National Parks to 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 statutory link and details on private gun sales in At A Glance table |
| 2020-02-25 | Added info on carry in bars to the At A Glance table |
| 2020-02-19 | Added related blog posts with links |
| 2020-02-14 | Added info regarding residency changes and resulting impacts on carry permits |
| 2020-01-28 | 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 when purchasing a firearm to the At A Glance table |
| 2019-11-15 | Added statutory references and links for can’t carry locations |
| 2019-10-31 | Added brandishing info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-10-14 | Added brandishing info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-10-01 | Added Hunter Harassment info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-09-06 | Added Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray to the At A Glance table |
| 2019-08-13 | Added Carry While Hunting info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-08-06 | Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary |
| 2019-07-25 | Updated permit fees in the Permit Info section |
| 2019-07-01 | Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table |
| 2019-05-24 | Updated General and Where Can/Can't I Carry sections with HB-1284 info |
| 2019-04-29 | Added info regarding HB-1284 to Genl, Location Restrictions, and Permit Info sections |
| 2019-04-29 | Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-04-17 | Added permit renewal and name/address change info |
| 2019-03-27 | Links checked |
| 2019-03-20 | Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) |
| 2019-02-20 | Clarified that firearms are prohibited in places of worship with licensed schools in Where I Can/Can't Carry sections |
| 2019-02-15 | Added info to vehicle carry in At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-09 | Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology |
| 2019-02-07 | Added ammunition restrictions to At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-25 | Added red flag law info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-25 | Links checked |
| 2019-01-24 | Added church carry info to location restrictions section |
| 2019-01-22 | Added info about alcohol or prescription medication in At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-10 | Added the Constitutional provision to bear arms |
Did We Miss Something?
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.
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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.