Texas Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws
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Summary of Texas Gun Laws
Texas is a shall-issue state, with concealed weapons licenses issued at the state level by the Department of Public Safety.
There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual.
As of Sept. 1, 2021, permitless concealed carry and open carry is legal for anyone at least 21 years old who may lawfully possess a handgun. The new law applies to both open carry in a holster and concealed carry, where no part of the firearm is visible. Texas law is quite specific in that openly carried handguns must be kept in a holster. In addition, 18 to 20 year olds protected under certain court orders related to family violence are allowed to apply for a license to carry. Texas LTCs are issued to both residents and non-residents who are at least 21 years of age (18 if a member or veteran of the U.S. military). They require a four- to six-hour training course as well as passing both a written exam and a shooting proficiency demonstration. Some areas are off-limits, including racetracks and secure areas of airports. In terms of reciprocity, since Texas allows permitless carry, any person 21 years of age and older who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm on his or her person without a license or permit.
Self-Defense
Texas is a Castle Doctrine and “stand your ground” state. There is no duty to retreat from any place a person has a right to be if that person is faced with a situation where he or she has to use force or deadly force to protect himself or herself or another.
Using Force
A person is justified in using force when and to the degree the actor reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to protect the actor against the attempted use of unlawful force. The actor’s belief that the force was immediately necessary as described by this subsection is presumed to be reasonable if the actor:
- Knew or had reason to believe that the person against whom the force was used:
- Unlawfully and with force entered or was attempting to enter the actor’s occupied habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment;
- Unlawfully and with force removed or was attempting to remove the actor from the actor’s habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment; or
- Was committing or attempting to commit aggravated kidnapping, murder, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, robbery or aggravated robbery.
Deadly Force in Defense of Person
The actor’s belief that deadly force was immediately necessary as described by that subdivision is presumed to be reasonable if the actor:
- Knew or had reason to believe that the person against whom the deadly force was used:
- Unlawfully and with force entered or was attempting to enter the actor’s occupied habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment;
- Unlawfully and with force removed or was attempting to remove the actor from the actor’s habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment; or
- Was committing or attempting to commit aggravated kidnapping, murder, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, robbery or aggravated robbery.
A person who uses deadly force within a residence, business, dwelling or vehicle is presumed to have held a reasonable belief of imminent death or serious bodily injury to self, family, a member of the household or a person visiting as an invited guest when the force is used against someone who unlawfully and forcibly entered the place.
Defense of Third Person
A person is justified in using force or deadly force against another to protect a third person if:
- Under the circumstances as the actor reasonably believes them to be, the actor would be justified in using force or deadly force to protect himself or herself against the unlawful force or unlawful deadly force he or she reasonably believes to be threatening the third person one seeks to protect; and
- The actor reasonably believes that his or her intervention is immediately necessary to protect the third person.
Protection of One’s Own Property
A person in lawful possession of land or tangible, movable property is justified in using force against another when and to the degree the actor reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to prevent or terminate the other’s trespass on the land or unlawful interference with the property.
Deadly Force to Protect Property
A person is justified in using deadly force against another to protect land or tangible, movable property:
- If one would be justified in using force against the other; and
- When and to the degree he or she reasonably believes the deadly force is immediately necessary:
- To prevent the other’s imminent commission of arson, burglary, robbery, aggravated robbery, theft during the nighttime or criminal mischief during the nighttime; or
- To prevent the other who is fleeing immediately after committing burglary, robbery, aggravated robbery or theft during the nighttime from escaping with the property; and
- He or she reasonably believes that:
- The land or property cannot be protected or recovered by any other means; or
- The use of force other than deadly force to protect or recover the land or property would expose the actor or another to a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury.
Protection of Third Person’s Property
A person is justified in using force or deadly force against another to protect land or tangible, movable property of a third person if, under the circumstances as he or she reasonably believes them to be, the actor would be justified in using force or deadly force to protect his or her own land or property.
Texas law presumes you acted reasonably and justifiably if you use deadly force to protect yourself against an unlawful, forceful intrusion into your occupied habitation (a structure that is detached from where you sleep at night is not considered to be your habitation), vehicle, or place of business or employment; or to prevent an unlawful, forceful attempt to remove a lawful occupant from the occupied habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment; or to prevent certain serious felonies such as burglary or arson.
[Tex. Pen. Code §§ 9.31, 9.32, 9.33, 9.41, 9.42 & 9.43]
Texas Gun Laws at a Glance
Carry Basics
Permitless Carry?Does Texas allow permitless carry? |
Yes. As of Sept. 1, 2021, permitless concealed and open carry is legal for anyone at least 21 years old who is not prohibited from lawfully possessing a handgun under federal law or Texas state law. The following individuals are prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm under Texas state law:
Provided a person has not been convicted of any of the following offenses within the preceding 5-year period:
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Open Carry Permitted?Is open carry permitted in Texas? |
Yes. As of Sept. 1, 2021, permitless open carry is legal for anyone at least 21 years old who may lawfully possess a handgun, provided the handgun is carried in a holster. According to Texas Penal Code § 46.02(a-5), it is illegal to carry a handgun and intentionally display it in plain view of another person in a public place, unless the handgun is partially or wholly visible (openly carried) but is carried in a holster. [Texas Penal Code § 46.035 be sure to choose 9/1/2021] |
Gun Permit Licensure?If Texas requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued? |
Texas is a shall-issue state. |
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?What is the minimum age in Texas to get a concealed carry license? |
You must be 21 (18 if a member or honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. military) to carry concealed in Texas. |
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Texas with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)? |
No. A Texas LTC does not apply to weapons other than handguns. |
Tasers or Stun Guns?Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Texas? |
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license. |
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Texas? |
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of small chemical dispensers of pepper spray sold commercially for personal protection. [Tex. Pen. Code § 46.05 (a)(3)] |
MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS?Does Texas have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? |
No. Texas has no limit for handgun magazine capacity. |
AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS?Does Texas have ammunition restrictions? |
Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited. [Tex. Penal Code § 46.05(a)(2)] |
Use the NEW Reciprocity by USCCA App!
- Featuring a personalized reciprocity map
- The most complete, up-to-date information for all state gun laws
- 24/7 customer support. If you still have questions, we’ll help find the answer.
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Use the new Reciprocity by USCCA App!
- Featuring a personalized reciprocity map
- The most complete, up-to-date information for all state gun laws
- 24/7 customer support. If you still have questions, we’ll help find the answer.
Download the app now – it’s FREE!
Carry Locations
Carry in Vehicle?Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Texas? |
Yes, without a license as of Sept. 1, 2021. However, it is an offense if it is in plain view, unless it is in a holster and you are either 21 years old or have a Texas LTC or a permit that Texas honors and provided you are not engaging in a criminal activity (other than a traffic violation). There are exemptions for peace officers, military, and other security and governmental professionals. [Texas Penal Code §§ 46.02(a-1) and 46.15] |
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Texas? |
Yes, without a license for anyone at least 21 years old who may lawfully possess a handgun. |
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 Texas? |
Yes, without a license for anyone at least 21 years old who may lawfully possess a handgun. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Texas. Except no firearms are allowed on or across the land of the Lower Colorado River Authority [Tex. Parks & Wild. Code § 62.081], on or over the water of Murvaul Lake in Panola County [Texas Parks and Wild. Code § 283.022] or in the following game sanctuaries:
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Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Texas? |
Carry is prohibited in businesses that sell alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption whose alcohol sales constitute more than 50% of gross receipts that display a red sign with, "51%" in large red letters superimposed over a warning that says possession of a concealed weapon on the premises is a felony. As of Sept. 1, 2021, only permit holders have a legal defense if effective notice is not given by the business. You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol (those that make less than 51% of their profits from alcohol) without a license. |
Carry/Possess at a hotel?Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Texas? |
As of September 1, 2021, unless possession of a handgun or other firearm or ammunition on hotel property is prohibited by state or federal law, a hotel may not adopt a policy prohibiting a hotel guest from:
A hotel may adopt a policy requiring a hotel guest carrying a firearm or firearm ammunition in a common area on the hotel property to carry a handgun in a concealed manner or carry a firearm or ammunition in a case or bag. [Tex. Pen. Code §§ 30.05, 30.06 and 30.07] |
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?Does Texas have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? |
A public or private employer may not prohibit an employee who holds a valid concealed carry license from transporting or storing a firearm or ammunition the employee is authorized by law to possess in a locked, privately owned motor vehicle in a parking area the employer provides for employees except in locations prohibited by state or federal law. This includes school districts or open-enrollment charter schools per Texas Education Code § 37.0815 and institutions of higher education per Gov. Code § 411.2032 provided that the firearm or ammunition is not in plain view. There are exceptions including oil and gas refineries. [Tex. Labor code § 52.061] |
Key State Laws
Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Texas? |
You have a duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Texas when an officer demands that you display identification, you must display both your driver’s license or identification and your handgun license. [Tex. Gov't Code § 411.205] |
DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry License?Is my Texas driver’s license linked to my Texas carry license? |
Yes. Texas does show if the registered driver of the car has a license to carry (LTC). So when pulled over, the license plate trace shows that data. If the DL is run independently of a license plate it will also show that you have a LTC. |
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Texas? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. |
Yes. As of Sept. 1, 2021, signage is complicated in Texas, and anyone carrying a firearm will need to understand the differences between the definitions of each sign. The Firearm Carry Act of 2021 creates two additional weapons signs:
Regardless of which sign is posted, once a person receives effective consent (either verbal or written notice) that entry on the property is prohibited, he or she must promptly leave or risk being charged with a misdemeanor. |
Preemption?Does Texas 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 Texas, except local municipalities may:
In addition, in any county building that houses a justice court, county court, county court at law, or district court, or in any office used by these courts, any person who possesses a firearm without the court’s written authorization, or without complying with any written regulation of the court, is subject to criminal liability. Based on an Attorney General opinion, counties may prohibit concealed handgun license holders from carrying concealed handguns in county parks and rapid transit authorities may prohibit concealed handgun licensees from carrying handguns while on public transportation. [Tex. Local Gov't Code § 229.001(b)(6)][Tex. Local Gov’t Code § 291.010(c)] |
Red Flag Law?Does Texas have a red flag law? |
No. Texas does not have a red flag law. |
Brandishing?Does Texas state law define brandishing? |
No definition of brandishing was found in Texas law. |
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?Does Texas have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs? |
As of Sept. 1, 2021, carry is prohibited If you are intoxicated anywhere other than:
With the consent of the owner or operator of the vehicle or watercraft. [Texas Penal Code § 46.02(a-6)] "Intoxicated" is defined as:
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 judgment, 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 Texas issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents? |
Yes. The process is the same as for residents. |
PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?Does Texas allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? |
No, however the information is available to to any criminal justice agency. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession
Purchase Permits?Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Texas? |
No. Permits are not required when buying a handgun in Texas. A Texas LTC qualifies as an alternative to background check requirements for up to 5 years from the date of issuance. Therefore, an LTC expedites a firearms purchase by allowing a licensee to not have to submit to and wait on the results of a background check. |
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?Are background checks required for private gun sales in Texas? |
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. |
Texas license Exempts from Background Check?Does my current Texas concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? |
Yes. |
Waiting Period?Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Texas? |
No. Texas has no mandatory waiting period for handgun purchases. |
Handgun Registration?Do handguns need to be registered in Texas? |
No. Texas does not require handgun registration. |
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Texas? |
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Texas. [Tex. Pen. Code § 46.06] |
Possess a handgun on my private property without a license?Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license? |
Yes. A license is not required in a person’s own premises or premises under the person's control. “Premises” includes real property and a recreational vehicle that is being used as living quarters, regardless of whether that use is temporary or permanent. |
Related Blog Posts
How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Texas
USCCA — May 23, 2021
Basic Concealed Carry Laws: Texas
USCCA — January 12, 2020
Have Questions? Contact Our Award-Winning, Wisconsin-Based Member Services Team 24/7 at 800-674-9779
State Constitutional Provision
Texas Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
Which states' permits does Texas honor?
Since Texas has permitless carry, any person 21 years of age and older who can legally possess a firearm under federal and Texas state law may carry a concealed firearm on his or her person without a license or permit.
Other States' Reciprocity With Texas
Which states honor permits from Texas?
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 Texas
Texas offers resident and non-resident licenses. If indicated with “Resident only” below, that state only honors Texas 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.
Texas 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 Texas. |
Fees: |
$40 for standard initial licenses and renewals. $25 for initial licenses and renewals for honorably discharged military vets. |
Valid For: |
5 years |
Processing Time: |
60 days |
Application: |
|
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses: |
Out-of-state residents must supply a color copy, front and back, of a state driver’s license or ID card and a proficiency certificate not greater than 2 years old from a course approved by the Texas Dept. of Public Safety. Applications may be submitted online or via mail. |
Name/Address Changes: |
You can make name and address changes online. |
Lost/Stolen Licenses: |
You can submit a request for a new license online. You will be issued a new license number for security reasons. |
Residency Changes: |
Moving to Texas and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply? Moving from Texas and have a Texas resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Texas license remains valid? |
Texas Concealed Carry License Application Process
How to Apply for a Texas Concealed Carry License
Step 1: |
Download the application form or submit an online application. You will need the following:
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Step 2: |
Schedule an appointment for fingerprinting. All fingerprints must be submitted through L-1 Enrollment Services. There is a fee of $9.95 for fingerprinting. |
Step 3: |
Complete classroom training. Pass the written exam and pass a shooting proficiency demonstration.
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Step 4: |
Submit the Certificate of Training to the Dept. of Public Safety to complete the application. Texas Department of Public Safety |
Step 5: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
Firearms Training Requirements in Texas
A handgun proficiency course must include 4-6 hours of classroom or online instruction in:
- Laws that relate to weapons and to the use of deadly force;
- Handgun use and safety, including use of restraint holsters and methods to ensure the secure carrying of openly carried handguns;
- Non-violent dispute resolution; and
- Proper storage practices for handguns, including storage practices that eliminate the possibility of accidental injury to a child.
- The range instruction part of the course must include an actual demonstration by the applicant of the applicant’s ability to safely and proficiently use the applicable category of handgun. An applicant may not be certified unless he or she demonstrates, at a minimum, the degree of proficiency that is required to effectively operate a handgun. However, active duty and honorably discharged members of the military, may not be required to complete the range instruction portion of a handgun proficiency course.
The shooting test requires 50 rounds of ammunition fired at three distances:
- 3 yards – 20 rounds fired
- 7 yards – 20 rounds fired
- 15 yards – 10 rounds fired
The proficiency examination must also include a written (or online portal) test concerning the subjects listed above, as well as the physical demonstration of proficiency in the use and safety procedures of one or more handguns and in handgun safety procedures.
**Click here for the USCCA online course and in-person qualification.**
Find a USCCA Certified Instructor or Firearms Training Class Near You
Texas Concealed Carry License Renewal Process
How to Renew a Texas Concealed Carry License
Step 1: |
You will usually be notified about 6 months before your license expires to renew it. Handgun license renewals can be submitted 6 months prior to the expiration date of the license. Renewals can be made up to 12 months after the expiration date of license. Renewal applications made after 12 months from the expiry date will be treated as a new application. |
Step 2: |
Download the application form or submit an online renewal application. |
Step 3: |
Complete the application and pay the fee. |
Step 4: |
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved. |
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.
Tex. Penal Code § 46.15(5) LEOs and RLEOs carrying under LEOSA are exempt from requiring a Texas License to Carry. Per Texas Gov’t Code §411.199, qualified RLEOs may obtain a sworn statement from the head of the law enforcement agency employing the applicant. The head of a law enforcement agency may not refuse to issue a statement under this subsection. An applicant described by this subsection may submit the application at any time after retirement. The RLEO shall submit the sworn statement and retirement credentials along with an application to carry under LEOSA. The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) establishes annual firearm qualification standards. Any certified TCOLE firearms instructor can qualify applicants.
Under §§ 411.1991 through 411.201, the following LEOs may apply for a license under LEOSA:
- Peace officers employed by a law enforcement agency;
- Members of the Texas military forces, excluding Texas State Guard members who are serving in the Texas Legislature;
- Reserve law enforcement officers with at least 15 years with one or more state or local law enforcement agencies;
- County jailers who hold a county jailer license;
- Correctional officer of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice;
- Active and retired judicial officers; and
- United States attorneys, assistant United States attorneys, and attorneys elected or employed to represent the state in the prosecution of felony cases.
Qualified Retired Federal or Out-of-State Officer Firearms Certificate Form
Instructions for Online Applications to Carry a Handgun under LEOSA
Texas Location Restrictions
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Texas? |
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Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Texas?Places off-limits even with a permit/license |
As of September 1, 2021, these locations are off-limits to concealed carry, even with a permit:
As of September 1, 2021, these locations are off-limits to open carry, even with a permit:
As of September 1, 2021, these locations are off-limits to permitless carry:
Note: “Premises” means a building or a portion of a building. The term does not include any public or private driveway, street, sidewalk or walkway, parking lot, parking garage, or other parking area. |
FAQ: Texas Concealed Carry Questions
What Are the Knife Laws in Texas? |
Anyone under the age of 18 can open or concealed carry a knife with a blade that is less than 5.5 inches in length nearly anywhere. An adult can open or concealed carry any knife with a blade longer than 5.5 inches in length anywhere other than the same locations that are off-limits to firearms, which includes schools. [Tex. Pen. Code §§ 46.01, 46.02, 46.03] |
WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY?I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Texas, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed? |
There is no known statute in Texas making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. |
CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING?Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Texas? |
Yes, with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. |
CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING?Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Texas? |
Yes, with a Texas LTC or a concealed carry license/permit from a state that Texas honors. |
HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW?Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Texas? |
Yes. No person may intentionally interfere with another person lawfully engaged in the process of hunting or catching wildlife. [Tex. Parks & Wildlife Code § 62.0125] |
Related Information & Links for Texas Gun Laws
Texas Gun Laws Updates:
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| 2021-09-01 | Updated locations in the Where Can't I Carry section per HB 1927 going into effect |
| 2021-09-01 | Updated the Vehicle Carry/Hotel Possession per HB 1927 going into effect in the At A Glance table |
| 2021-09-01 | Updated info on Permitless Carry/Open Carry per HB 1927 going into effect in the At A Glance table |
| 2021-09-01 | Updated the Summary with info regarding permitless carry per HB 1927 going into effect |
| 2021-05-19 | Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table |
| 2020-11-24 | Added information on training exemption for military in the Training Section |
| 2020-10-15 | Updated the vehicle carry 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 |
| 2020-06-26 | Added link to National Parks to At A Glance table |
| 2020-06-04 | Added info and statutory links for ammunition restrictions in At A Glance table |
| 2020-05-06 | Added info on handguns at hotels in At A Glance table |
| 2020-04-20 | Added info on handguns on private property in At A Glance table |
| 2020-04-07 | Added info on private gun sales in At A Glance table |
| 2020-02-20 | Added related blog posts with links |
| 2020-02-18 | Added info regarding residency changes and resulting impacts on carry permits |
| 2020-01-31 | 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 |
| 2019-11-22 | Added statutory references and links for can’t carry locations |
| 2019-11-04 | Added brandishing info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-10-16 | Added Hunter Harassment info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-10-01 | Added Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray to the At A Glance table |
| 2019-09-09 | Added Carry While Hunting info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-09-03 | Updated Can't Carry section with updates to Code effective on September 1, 2019 regarding handguns in school parking lots |
| 2019-09-02 | Updated wording regarding No Weapons Signs in At A Glance table effective as of September 1, 2019 |
| 2019-08-13 | Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary |
| 2019-07-26 | Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table |
| 2019-06-25 | Updated knife info in FAQ based on the Governor's signing of HB446 |
| 2019-06-18 | Added gun storage in vehicles in school parking lots info to the Where Can't I Carry section per the passage of HB 1143 |
| 2019-05-24 | Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-05-03 | Added permit renewal and name/address change info |
| 2019-04-19 | Links checked |
| 2019-04-02 | Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) |
| 2019-03-13 | Updated school carry info in Where Can I and Where Can't I Carry sections |
| 2019-02-22 | Added info and link to vehicle carry in At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-15 | Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology |
| 2019-02-09 | Added ammunition restrictions to At A Glance table |
| 2019-02-06 | Added red flag law info to At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-25 | Added church carry info to location restrictions section |
| 2019-01-24 | Added info about alcohol or prescription medication in At A Glance table |
| 2019-01-10 | Mag limit added to At A Glance table |
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.
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.