Everything you need to know about obtaining and exercising your concealed carry permit. Understand permit types, requirements, and reciprocity across the United States.
Understanding the different permit systems across states
No permit required - 27 states
Also known as "permitless carry," constitutional carry allows eligible individuals to carry concealed handguns without any government-issued permit. These states recognize the Second Amendment as sufficient authorization.
States with Constitutional Carry:
Permit granted if requirements met - ~20 states
In shall-issue states, the issuing authority must grant a permit if the applicant meets all statutory requirements. Denial is only permitted if the applicant fails to meet specific criteria such as background, training, or residency requirements.
Examples of Shall-Issue States:
Discretionary issuance - ~5 states
In may-issue states, the issuing authority has broad discretion over whether to issue permits. Applicants typically must demonstrate "good cause" beyond general self-defense, and meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee approval.
May-Issue States:
Standard requirements across permit states
While requirements vary by state, most shall-issue states require the following:
Must be 21 years old for most permits. Some states allow 18+ with parental consent or military service.
Must be a legal resident of the state. Some states allow non-residents with significant ties.
Valid government-issued photo ID required. Proof of citizenship or legal residency.
FBI/State background check required. No felony convictions or domestic violence.
No history of mental illness adjudication. No restraining orders or stalking convictions.
Completion of state-approved firearms training course with classroom and live fire components.
The following typically disqualify an applicant from obtaining a CCW permit:
Complete a state-approved CCW training course (typically 4-8 hours) covering firearms safety, laws, and live fire qualification.
Collect proof of identity, residency, training certificate, and any required forms. Some states require fingerprints.
Submit application to the appropriate authority (sheriff, state police, etc.) with required fee and documents.
Authorities conduct background check and review application. Processing times vary from days to months.
Upon approval, receive your permit card. Permits are typically valid for 2-5 years before renewal.
Costs vary significantly by state. Check your state's specific requirements.
Understanding which states honor permits from other states
Reciprocity agreements allow a person with a valid concealed carry permit from one state to legally carry a concealed firearm in another state. However, the permit holder must follow the laws of the state they're visiting, not their home state.
These state permits are recognized by the most other states:
Honored in 35+ states. Texas has strong reciprocity agreements and is one of the most recognized permits.
Honored in 35+ states. Florida has extensive reciprocity agreements throughout the Southeast and Midwest.
Honored in 35+ states. Georgia has reciprocal agreements across most of the country.
Honored in 35+ states. Utah's permit is valid in most constitutional carry and shall-issue states.
Honored in 30+ states. Arizona has reciprocal agreements across the western and southern U.S.
Honored in 30+ states. Virginia has agreements throughout the East Coast and Midwest.
These states do not honor concealed carry permits from other states:
Does not honor any other state's permits. Only issues to CA residents with county sheriff approval.
Does not honor any other state's permits. NY is a may-issue state with very limited approvals.
Does not honor permits from any other state. NJ is highly restrictive with few issued permits.
Does not honor permits from other states. Hawaii has extremely limited issuance.
Does not honor permits from other states. Maryland has very restrictive may-issue policies.
Does not honor permits from other states. Massachusetts has restrictive may-issue requirements.
Check our interactive map to see which states honor your permit and which ones don't.
View Interactive MapReciprocity agreements change frequently. Always verify with official sources before traveling with your firearm.
Download ATF Concealed Carry PDF →What to expect and how to prepare
Most states require completion of a concealed carry training course before issuing a permit. Course content and duration vary by state, but typically include both classroom instruction and live fire exercises.
| State | Required Hours | Live Fire Required |
|---|---|---|
| California | 8 hours | Yes |
| Florida | 3 hours | Yes |
| Georgia | 8 hours | Yes |
| Michigan | 8 hours | Yes |
| New York | 16-18 hours | Yes |
| North Carolina | 8 hours | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | Training only | Yes |
| Texas | 4-6 hours | Yes |
| Utah | 4 hours | Yes |
Requirements change - verify with your state authority.
Prices vary by location and instructor.
A CCW course is just the beginning. Regular practice and continuing education are essential for safe and effective concealed carry.
Common questions about concealed carry
It depends on your state. 27 states have constitutional carry, meaning no permit is required. In the remaining states, you typically need a permit. However, even in constitutional carry states, obtaining a permit provides benefits like reciprocity with other states.
No. Some states (California, New York, New Jersey, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts) do not honor any other state's concealed carry permits. Even with a permit, you must obey the laws of the state you're visiting.
Generally yes, with a valid concealed carry permit. Firearms are prohibited in federal buildings within national parks, but the rest of the park is generally open to concealed carry for those with valid state permits. Always check specific park regulations.
Laws vary by state. Many states prohibit carrying in establishments that derive most of their revenue from alcohol sales. Some prohibit carrying while consuming alcohol. Others have no specific restrictions. Know your state's laws and the policies of individual establishments.
In most states, you must carry your permit and valid ID whenever carrying concealed. Forgetting your permit may result in a citation or arrest, especially in states with strict enforcement. Always carry both documents.
Yes. Common reasons for revocation include: committing a crime, becoming a prohibited person, violating permit conditions, or providing false information on your application. Each state has specific revocation criteria.
Validity periods vary by state, typically ranging from 2 to 5 years. Some states issue lifetime permits. You'll need to renew before expiration, which may require completing additional training or paying renewal fees.
Check your state's specific requirements and start the process today.