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Wyoming is a shall-issue state. Wyoming Concealed Firearms Permit (CFP) applications are processed on a local level by the county sheriff’s office and issued by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI). Local law enforcement has some discretion in determining whether or not to issue a concealed weapons permit to an applicant.
No permit is needed to purchase a firearm from a private individual, no background check is required, there is no waiting period and there is no firearms registration in the state. Background checks are required if purchasing a handgun from a Federal Firearms Dealer. However, a Wyoming CFP exempts the holder from the federal requirement of a background check prior to purchase of a firearm.
Open carry is legal without a permit for anyone who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm.
As of July 1, 2021, permitless concealed carry is legal for any legal resident of the U.S. who is 21 years old or older, and who may lawfully possess a firearm. The minimum age to purchase and possess a handgun is 21 years old — 18 years old for shotguns or rifles. Some areas are off-limits, including schools as well as businesses primarily devoted to the sale and consumption of alcohol. A Wyoming CFP requires a firearms-training course that has been state approved or experience with a firearm through participation in an organized shooting competition or military service. Wyoming does not issue non-resident permits. In terms of reciprocity, Wyoming honors permits from other states that recognize Wyoming permits.
Wyoming is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. There is no duty to retreat, and the law applies at a person’s home or habitation or any place where the person is lawfully present.
The use of defensive force is reasonable when it is the defensive force that a reasonable person in like circumstances would judge necessary to prevent an injury or loss and no more, including deadly force, if necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury to the person employing the deadly force.
A person is presumed to have held a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury to himself or herself or another when using defensive force, including deadly force if:
A person who unlawfully and by force enters or attempts to enter another’s home or habitation is presumed to be doing so with the intent to commit an unlawful act involving force or violence.
Criminal Immunity
A person who uses legal, reasonable defensive force shall not be criminally prosecuted for that use of reasonable defensive force.
[Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(g)]
Permitless Carry?Does Wyoming allow permitless carry? |
Yes. As of July 1, 2021, permitless concealed carry is legal for any legal resident of the U.S. who is 21 years old or older, and who may lawfully possess a firearm. |
Open Carry Permitted?Is open carry permitted in Wyoming? |
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 Wyoming requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? |
Wyoming is shall-issue, with discretion. |
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?What is the minimum age in Wyoming to get a concealed carry permit? |
The minimum age to apply for a Wyoming Concealed Firearms Permit is 21 (or at least 18 years of age if the local sheriff makes a personal recommendation on the applicant’s behalf). |
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Wyoming with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? |
No. A Wyoming CFP does not permit weapons besides handguns. |
Tasers or Stun Guns?Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Wyoming? |
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase without a permit. |
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Wyoming? |
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Wyoming. |
MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS?Does Wyoming have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? |
No. There are no handgun magazine capacity limits in Wyoming. |
AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS?Does Wyoming have ammunition restrictions? |
No. Wyoming law does not restrict handgun ammunition types. |
Carry in Vehicle?Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Wyoming? |
Yes. Without a permit for anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm. |
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Wyoming? |
Yes, without a permit |
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 Wyoming? |
Yes, without a permit, although the use of firearms is prohibited in all state parks, campgrounds, recreational grounds, historic landmarks or historic sites unless otherwise designated by the state Fish and Game Commission (Wy Admin. Rule 024.0002.1.16). See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Wyoming. |
Carry in Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Wyoming? |
You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol without a permit, unless posted. However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars or the bar areas of restaurants. |
Carry/Possess at a hotel?Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Wyoming? |
Wyoming 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 Wyoming have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? |
Not addressed in Wyoming state law. |
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 Wyoming? |
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm unless the officer asks. |
DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry Permit?Is my Wyoming driver’s license linked to my Wyoming carry permit? |
Yes. Your Wyoming driver’s license is linked to your Wyoming concealed firearms 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. |
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Wyoming? 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. A person is guilty of criminal trespass if he enters or remains on or in the land or premises of another person, knowing he is not authorized to do so, or after being notified through personal communication or posted signs prohibiting firearms to depart or to not trespass. |
Preemption?Does Wyoming 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 Wyoming. |
Red Flag Law?Does Wyoming have a red flag law? |
Wyoming does not have a red flag law. |
Brandishing?Does Wyoming state law define brandishing? |
No definition of brandishing was found in Wyoming law. However, any person who knowingly points a firearm at or in the direction of another, whether or not the person believes the firearm is loaded, is guilty of reckless endangering unless reasonably necessary in defense of his person, property or abode or to prevent serious bodily injury to another. |
Carry While Using Alcohol or Controlled Substances?Does Wyoming have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances? |
According to the Game and Fish Code, no person shall carry a firearm with a cartridge therein, or take any wildlife in Wyoming, while intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance as defined in Wyo. Stat. § 35-7-1002. 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 Wyoming issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? |
No. Wyoming does not issue permits to non-residents. |
PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?Does Wyoming 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 Wyoming? |
No. You are not required to get a special permit before purchasing a handgun in Wyoming. |
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?Are background checks required for private gun sales in Wyoming? |
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. |
Wyoming Permit Exempts from Background Check?Does my current Wyoming concealed carry permit 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 Wyoming? |
No. There is no waiting period to buy a handgun in Wyoming. |
Handgun Registration?Do handguns need to be registered in Wyoming? |
No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Wyoming. |
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Wyoming? |
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Wyoming. |
Possess a handgun on my private property without a permit?Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? |
Although residents can concealed carry and open carry without a permit, Wyoming Statutes don’t specifically address carry on private property. |
Wyoming Gun Laws: What You Need to Know
USCCA — December 8, 2019
Basic Concealed Carry Laws: Wyoming
USCCA — March 14, 2021
Which states' permits does Wyoming honor?
As of July 1, 2021, permitless concealed carry is legal for any legal resident of the U.S. who is 21 years old or older, and who may lawfully possess a firearm.
Which states honor permits from Wyoming?
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.
*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.
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 Wyoming. |
Fees: |
Initial Permit $64 (The sheriff’s office may charge a separate fee for processing and fingerprinting.) Renewal $45 |
Valid For: |
5 years |
Processing Time: |
90 days |
Application: |
|
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits: |
Wyoming doesn't issue permits to non-residents. |
Name/Address Changes: |
You will need to complete an Address & Name Change Form and provide documentation for name changes and email or mail the completed form to the address on the form. New permits are NOT issued for address changes. |
Lost/Stolen Permits: |
You will need to complete a Duplicate Permit Application, furnish a notarized statement to the DCI that the permit has been lost or destroyed and pay a $5 fee for a duplicate. The county sheriff's departments maintain all required forms and collect all funds for CFPs. They may also have notary publics, so they can complete all forms, make copies for their records and send the fees and completed forms to the DCI. |
Residency Changes: |
Moving to Wyoming and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply? Moving from Wyoming and have a Wyoming resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Wyoming permit remains valid? |
How to Apply for a Wyoming Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
Complete a firearm training course if required. |
Step 2: |
Download the application, fill out the form and print four copies. |
Step 3: |
Obtain a money order or cashier’s check for the application fee, made out to DCI or WY attorney general's office. They do not accept cash, credit cards or personal checks. Ask your local sheriff's office about its fees, which will be separate from the DCI fees. |
Step 4: |
Take your completed application to your local sheriff's office. You will need the following:
You will be fingerprinted. |
Step 5: |
Take the remaining copy of your application to a Wyoming DOT Driver Services office to have your picture taken for the permit. This must be done within 5 days of your application. |
Step 6: |
You will be contacted by the sheriff's office within 90 days of when they receive your permit. |
An applicant for a concealed weapons permit in Wyoming is required to demonstrate familiarity with a firearm. Any of the following activities constitutes sufficient familiarity under Wyoming law:
Find a USCCA Certified Instructor or Firearms Training Class Near You
How to Renew a Wyoming Concealed Carry Permit
Step 1: |
You may apply for a renewal no earlier than 6 months before your expiration date. Renewals are considered late after the permit expiration date and an additional $10 late fee is applied. You can only apply for a later renewal up to 6 months after the expiration date. After that a new application and fees are required. |
Step 2: |
Download the application, fill out the form and print four copies. |
Step 3: |
Obtain a money order or cashier’s check for the application fee, made out to DCI or WY attorney general's office. They do not accept cash, credit cards or personal checks. Ask your local sheriff's office about its fees, which will be separate from the DCI fees. |
Step 4: |
Take your completed application to your local sheriff's office. You will need the following:
|
Step 5: |
Take the remaining copy of your application to a Wyoming DOT Driver Services office to have your picture taken for the permit. This must be done within 5 days of your application. |
Step 6: |
You will be contacted by the sheriff's office when they receive your permit. |
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.
No state agency has overall LEOSA responsibility in Wyoming. RLEOs from federal/out-of-state agencies/departments who reside in Wyoming may qualify with any firearms instructor (normally at a local department) approved by the Wyoming Police Officer Standards and Testing (POST). Once an RLEO completes annual qualification, a letter is issued certifying that the annual LEOSA qualification requirement has been met. The Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police provides stickers and form letters to the departments/agencies to indicate compliance with annual qualification requirements.
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Wyoming? |
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Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Wyoming?Places off-limits even with a permit/license |
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What Are the Knife Laws in Wyoming? |
It is legal to own and open carry any type of knife. It is legal to concealed carry a deadly weapon for anyone who has a valid weapon permit or is otherwise eligible to hold a weapon permit. There are restrictions for schools, school, college or professional athletic facilities, bars, government meetings, jails, a state penal institution, the Wyoming boys' school, Wyoming girls' school, and correctional facilities. |
WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY?I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Wyoming, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed? |
There is no known statute in Wyoming making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. |
CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING?Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Wyoming? |
Yes. |
CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING?Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Wyoming? |
Yes. However, the law does prohibit the use of firearms in taking or finishing off any big or trophy game animals during the archery season. |
HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW?Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Wyoming? |
Yes. No person shall with the intent to prevent or hinder the lawful taking of any wildlife. |
Date | Details |
---|---|
2021-05-19 | Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table |
2021-04-22 | Per HB 116, added permitless carry info to the Summary and At A Glance sections |
2021-03-03 | Added info and link for military permit applications in the Permit Info 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 |
2020-05-06 | 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 |
2020-02-24 | Added info on carry in bars to the 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 |
2020-01-13 | Updated info on carry while using alcohol or controlled substances in At A Glance table |
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 |
2019-08-14 | 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 |
2019-05-24 | Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table |
2019-04-19 | Links checked |
2019-04-03 | Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) |
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 info to At A Glance table |
2019-01-25 | Checked integrity of external links |
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 |
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.