Obtaining a concealed carry permit that is valid in all 50 states is effectively possible only for active or retired law enforcement officers under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA). LEOSA, a federal law enacted in 2004, permits qualified officers nationwide to carry concealed firearms across state lines, overriding many state-specific restrictions, though federal and certain local prohibitions still apply.
For private citizens, there is no single concealed carry permit universally valid in all states. Each state sets its own licensing requirements, eligibility criteria, and reciprocity agreements with other states. Because of this fractured landscape, most gun owners pursue multiple concealed carry permits, typically from their home state plus neighboring or frequently visited states that offer non-resident permits.
Permit issuance processes generally involve minimum age requirements (commonly 21 years), clean criminal records, residence stipulations, firearm safety training, fingerprinting, and background checks. Certain states like Florida, Utah, and Maine issue non-resident permits open to out-of-state applicants, making them popular for multi-state coverage.
Reciprocity agreements vary widely. Many states recognize permits from selected other states if certain conditions align, such as equivalent training or age requirements. However, some states (e.g., California, New York, Illinois) do not recognize any out-of-state permits. Thus, concealed carriers must carefully verify reciprocity policies before traveling with a firearm.
While no civilian permit covers all 50 states, it is feasible for a well-informed individual to carry legally in approximately 40–45 states by obtaining multiple permits strategically. Staying informed of changing laws and state-specific nuances is critical for lawful concealed carry in interstate travel.
But what about the rest of us? What can the armed citizen do?
LEOSA Is The Only Way To Carry In All 50 States
urrently, concealed carry laws are determined state by state and, thus, vary significantly across the country. LEOSA, enacted in 2004, provides qualified active and retired law enforcement officers the overarching privilege to carry concealed firearms across state lines, regardless of state or local laws.
The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act is a federal law that permits law enforcement officers and retired officers to carry a firearm - so long as it is lawful for them to do so - across state lines without let or hindrance. It was expanded in 2010, 2013 and 2021 to include Amtrak police, Federal Reserve Police, military police, judges and prosecutors.
LEOSA does not, however, exempt officers from some firearms laws such as federal gun-free zones, state-mandated gun-free zones, and certain other regulations such as magazine restrictions in select jurisdictions.
However, for non-law enforcement citizens, the concealed carry regulations can be notably more complicated. Generally speaking, there's no way to lawfully carry in all 50 states, but it's possible to lawfully possess a firearm in all 50 states. So long as you don't have a high-capacity magazine or certain other restricted firearms in select jurisdictions ("assault weapons," short-barreled rifles and short-barreled shotguns are the most heavily regulated) it's lawful for the average citizen to have a gun, just not necessarily carry one in public.
Why Concealed Carry Permit Laws Vary By State
One of the significant hurdles for civilians is the lack of uniformity in concealed carry permit laws and concealed carry reciprocity.
Reciprocity, in this context, is the agreement between states to recognize and honor concealed carry permits issued by other states. Unfortunately, not all states recognize permits from other states. So, even if you have a license in your home state, it might not be valid if you travel elsewhere.
However, some state concealed carry permits have better reciprocity than others. For instance, permits issued by states such as Utah, Arizona, and Florida are recognized by more than 30 other states. In contrast, a permit from a state like California has much more limited reciprocity.
And why is that?
Concealed carry legally falls under the definition of "public policy." The states can't do certain things because federal law trumps any state interest. However, whatever isn't covered by federal law is left to the states.
Besides LEOSA, which only covers law enforcement, there are no federal laws about concealed carry. There is one court case - NYSPRA v Bruen - which only holds that states can't deny someone a permit without a real reason. Since there's no federal law or court precedent covering anything else, that makes it a state matter and therefore a matter of public policy. Each state gets to decide for itself.
So...in the absence of a national reciprocity law, the only way to be able to lawfully carry in as many states as possible is to obtain a permit, and hopefully one with wide reciprocity. What some people will do is get a permit in their home state, and then get a non-resident permit from Utah, Arizona or Florida to cover a few more states that don't recognize their home state's permit.
Will There Ever Be National Reciprocity?
For now, national reciprocity is not very likely to happen.
Legislators have attempted to pass such laws previously. The 'Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017', for example, sought to provide a national solution, but it did not succeed in the Senate after passing the House of Representatives.
However, achieving this goal could evoke some constitutional issues, as states currently have the power to set public policy decisions for themselves and - to a degree - regulate firearms. Every bill that has been introduced to enact national reciprocity has had a constitutional issue that would easily see it struck down in the courts.
For instance, a number of national reciprocity bills have used the Full Faith And Credit Clause of the Constitution, which requires states to recognize official documents (ie marriage licenses, birth certificates) issued by other states. However, the Full Faith And Credit Clause has an exception for matters of public policy, where the federal government has no controlling interest, so that route to national reciprocity is a non-starter.
So for now...the only thing the responsibly armed citizen can do is get a permit or stack a resident permit and non-resident permit to get the most they can.
Types Of Concealed Carry Laws
In this guide, you may find three common phrases you are unfamiliar with. To better understand the concealed carry permit process, you should familiarize yourself with these terms and what they mean. Here are a few key terms and their definitions.
States can be grouped into three types: "Shall Issue", "May Issue" and "Constitutional Carry." What those terms mean is whether a state requires a permit to carry a gun in public, and the type of law that governs how the permit is issued.
Shall Issue: if the applicant meets the requirements, the state is required to issue the permit. These states typically have the phrase "shall issue" in the concealed carry permit laws, hence the name.
May Issue: the issuing authority can decide to deny the permit application, even if the applicant meets all the requirements; they aren't obligated to grant it. Just like shall-issue, "may issue" states typically use that exact wording in the actual laws.
Constitutional Carry: there is no permit required to carry a concealed firearm, so long as the person is not legally prohibited from possessing one.
"Constitutional Carry" is probably the easiest concept to understand on this list. The idea is the "Second Amendment doesn't mention a permit" and non-prohibited persons, therefore, have every right to carry a gun without needing a permission slip.
At the time of this writing, 25 states have constitutional carry laws. Non-prohibited persons can carry in those states without needing a permit, but can still get a permit if they want to.
Of the remaining 25 states, all but nine are "Shall-Issue." In some shall-issue states, the issuing authority has limited discretion to deny a permit if they have a compelling and demonstrable reason why the applicant shouldn't be allowed to carry a gun.
The may-issue states are CA, CT, DE, HI, MA, MD, NJ, NY, and RI...but may-issue states are currently in a state of flux, due to the Supreme Court's decision in NYS Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen.
"Open carry" is another term you will hear referred to regularly in this guide. "Open carry" simply refers to carrying a firearm openly and where visible while in public, rather than concealed upon your person. This guide will discuss what the permit issuing laws are in each state, so you'll know what you're in for.
May Issue States And New York State Rifle And Pistol v. Bruen
In June of 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States released its decision on New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen. This case challenged the use of the "good cause" requirement in New York's Sullivan Act, which was the template for may-issue laws nationwide.
The decision held that issuing authorities had to have a real reason to deny an applicant who otherwise met all requirements; giving local authorities total authority on how New Yorkers could exercise their constitutional rights was a bridge too far.
In practical terms, it means that issuing authorities in the may-issue states have to show a good reason (the legal term is "compelling interest") for denying a permit application...meaning they'll have to start granting them.
...but that's not the end of the story.
If you live in one of those states, here are some things you should know about.
In 2015, the Rhode Island Supreme Court ruled in Gadomski v. Tavares that good cause had to be shown for a police chief or sheriff to deny a permit in that state, much like the Bruen decision. Within 18 months, the chief of police for East Providence had been sued twice and ordered both times to comply with the court's order in Tavares and issue permits to applicants.
In other words, he would only approve and issue permits - which he was legally obligated to do - if compelled to by court order. Individual issuing authorities may go rogue in the wake of the ruling, and invite citizens to sue (which is expensive) to get their permits issued.
The states that have had traditionally strict gun control laws are also rushing to pass new legislation restricting where a person can lawfully carry in public. Such legislation was proposed within days of the court's ruling in New York, along with a requirement that applicants turn over their social media accounts to (ostensibly) verify that they were of sound character.
California quickly announced the intention to do more or less the same, along with potentially doubling the length of required instruction needed to obtain the permit. New Jersey has also announced the intention to mirror their response on New York's.
Maryland and Massachusetts seem to be more accommodating, as the Attorneys General of those states issued directives for permits to be approved unless for a compelling reason such as history of violence or drug abuse or prior felonies. Hawaii did likewise.
So while the ruling in Bruen is certainly progress, it doesn't mean people who live in those states are completely out of the woods yet.
Concealed Carry Permit Requirements
The exact requirements to get a concealed carry permit vary from state to state, but the basics are the same everywhere:
- You must be of legal age (typically 21, but 18 in some states)
- You must be a US citizen, or a legal resident
You must also pass a background check. Anything that would keep you from buying a gun will keep you from being issued a permit. Typically, part of the background check is getting fingerprinted either by law enforcement or through an approved third party.
Most states require you to take a training course and provide proof of same. A few states require a qualification shoot, where you shoot targets at a range for a numerical score. You must make a minimum score to pass; however, the score required typically does not require much expertise and is merely a demonstration of very rudimentary proficiency.
Some states will only issue permits to residents, and some will issue permits to non-residents.
Once you have determined what will be required by your issuing state, you're ready to get your paperwork together, get fingerprinted, fill out some forms, pay the license fee and wait to get notified.
What About Concealed Carry Reciprocity?
Concealed carry reciprocity means one state honors/recognizes the legality of a permit from another state.
For instance, a person who lives in Spokane, WA might have to drive to Missoula, MT for work or vacation. Since Montana honors permits from the State of Washington, that person would still be legally allowed to carry a concealed firearm while in Montana.
However, a person from Montana with a Montana concealed carry permit cannot concealed carry in Washington, because Washington state doesn't honor Montana's permits. Since reciprocity varies by state, this should help you in the event you need to travel between states and have a question about your permit.
People who live in "Constitutional Carry" states may choose to get a permit for the purpose of carrying across state lines. Some will even opt to get a non-resident permit from a different state, in addition to one from their home state, if the non-resident permit has wider reciprocity. If you travel out of state with any frequency, it's necessary to know what states also recognize your permit.
Some ask why concealed carry permits can't be like driver's licenses.
The quick answer is that each state gets to set its own policy on concealed carry permits; there isn't much federal law or court precedent that governs concealed carry permits or whether states have to recognize or honor permits from other states.
The federal government has not really touched reciprocity at this point, since permit requirements (the Bruen ruling aside) are a public policy issue. This aspect of concealed carry is likely to remain as it is unless something changes.
Concealed Carry in The Car
All states allow transportation of an unloaded firearm in a secure container, but carrying a loaded gun is another matter.
Most states require a loaded gun be concealed and on your person. Some states allow for an openly carried gun to be kept loaded in the car, so long as it's in plain view, but the requirement to conceal the firearm on your person while driving is the most common.
Some states require a permit to have a loaded gun in a vehicle at all, and others have different rules. Make sure you know what your state's laws are, before putting a loaded gun in the car.
When a state has a specific requirement about how to carry in the car, we'll note that in the state guide below. However, you'll still want to be sure to look it up on your own.
As with most aspects of concealed carry, a small change in details makes a big difference in legality. This is the case with interstate transportation. The Firearms Owner Protection Act (FOPA, 1986) provides some protections when transporting a gun across state lines, but none against violating the laws of the state you are in.
FOPA does not protect you against New York's ban on magazines with more than 10 rounds of capacity or New Jersey's ban on hollow point ammunition.
What the FOPA does is allow anyone who lawfully possess a firearm to transport it across state lines, if it is unloaded and kept in a secured container that is not immediately accessible to anyone in the vehicle. FOPA is often referred to as a "peaceable journey" law, meaning that it's legal to travel with a gun, so long as you are peaceably traveling through a place rather than going there armed and looking for trouble.
Some states have additional peaceable journey laws, as well. If traveling across state lines, make sure you look up the laws of every state you will be traveling to.
Duty To Inform: Interacting with Law Enforcement
Most states have some regulation on how the lawfully armed citizen must interact with law enforcement.
The most common requirement is to keep your permit on you while carrying and produce it upon request of law enforcement.
Some states include a requirement to declare that you're armed if asked, while others have a "duty to inform" law, which mandates that you must declare to law enforcement that you are armed without being asked. When an officer walks up to your car, or contacts you on the street, you are required to inform them that you are carrying a gun and have a permit.
Some states also specify that law enforcement can disarm you, should they deem it necessary. However, just because your state doesn't specifically state that you must let an officer disarm you doesn't mean they have no authority to, so be aware that it's a possibility.
No Guns Allowed Signs
Another thing to be aware of is legally posted signs. Some states give such signage force of law (such as 30.06 and 30.07 signs in Texas), while others do not.
Every state in the union allows for private property owners and operators to forbid possession of weapons on their property. This includes businesses and, of course, private residences. Possession of a firearm where expressly prohibited may be specified as a crime, typically a misdemeanor but in some cases a felony.
However, just because signage doesn't have force of law doesn't mean you can ignore them. Being on private property implies that you agree to do or not do certain things to be welcome there. If you violate that agreement (say by carrying a gun where not welcome), you are trespassing, which you can be charged with if asked to leave and you refuse.
Be aware of what signage laws are in your state, or in any states you visit.
Gun Free Zones: Prohibited Locations
Both the federal and state governments designate certain areas as gun-free zones, in that firearms and other dangerous weapons are prohibited there.
The federal government prohibits the possession of firearms and other dangerous weapons in federal buildings such as offices, post offices and federal prisons, and forbids possession of firearms at schools without a permit.
Regulations regarding schools and government buildings vary by state. Most allow for a lawfully carried gun to be kept in one's car while on school grounds. Others allow you to carry on school grounds but not in buildings, and others still forbid guns on school property whether you have a permit or not.
That may or may not include institutions of higher education, such as colleges, universities or trade schools. Some states allow such institutions to set their own policy, and others don't. Make sure to learn what it is in your state.
Restaurants and bars are also commonly regulated areas. Some states forbid carrying a gun in a bar or tavern but don't in a restaurant that serves alcohol, while others forbid it in any establishment that serves alcohol.
What's most common is forbidding the carrying of a firearm in the licensed area, meaning the actual bar area itself. All states forbid possession of a weapon while under the influence, and most prohibit being served or consuming alcohol while carrying. After all, guns and alcohol don't mix.
Carrying a firearm is generally allowed in national parks or national forests, so long as it is legal for you to carry in the state the national park/forest is in. However, ranger stations and other official facilities are federal buildings, so you'll have to disarm yourself prior to entering.
If you live in a state that has tribal reservations, or travel through them regularly, be aware that tribal land is sovereign territory. Some tribes recognize or honor the permits or constitutional carry law of the state the reservation resides in, and some do not.
As with so many other laws pertaining to the possession of a concealed firearm, know what the tribal law is in the tribal area you are close to and/or traveling through.
It is your responsibility to know what areas are and aren't gun-free zones in your city and state. Again, make sure you understand the laws of your city and state, and those of any state you travel to.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a U.S. concealed‑carry permit cost?
Typical total cost varies by state but most permit processes run roughly $25–$300 including application fee, fingerprinting/background check, state processing and any required training — non‑resident or expedited options often cost more. Check your issuing agency for the exact fee.
What exact steps are required to renew a concealed‑carry permit?
Renewal normally means: (1) submit the state renewal form, (2) pay the renewal fee, (3) supply ID/proof of residency, (4) complete any required refresher training (if your state mandates it), and (5) pass whatever background check the state requires; processing times vary by state.
Does a mental‑health history disqualify you from a concealed‑carry permit?
States disqualify individuals with certain mental health adjudications, such as involuntary commitment or legal incompetence. Applicants may need to submit medical documentation if their history is flagged.
What kinds of training formats are accepted for CCW applications?
Accepted formats are set by state law: most states require state‑certified in‑person training (often live‑fire); a growing number accept hybrid or approved online components for the classroom portion but still require practical/range verification in many jurisdictions — always confirm with your state agency.
Can a U.S. concealed‑carry permit be used in other countries?
U.S. concealed carry permits are not valid internationally. Traveling with a firearm requires strict compliance with the destination country’s laws, airline rules, U.S. export rules and customs — many countries criminalize civilian concealed carry. Consult the U.S. State Department and the foreign embassy before you travel.
What should I do if my concealed‑carry permit application is denied?
Follow your state’s appeal path: file the formal appeal or request the review/hearing specified by the issuing agency, gather supporting records (background checks, training certificates, character references), and consider counsel — appeal rules and deadlines differ by state and can include administrative hearings or judicial review.
Which firearm types does a concealed‑carry permit cover?
Generally a CCW authorizes carrying handguns (pistols/revolvers) only; some states explicitly exclude long guns or regulate vehicle transport differently — read your state’s definition of “firearm” and any carriage limits.
Do active‑duty military members have automatic CCW exemptions?
No blanket federal exemption — military service does not automatically waive civilian permitting requirements. Some states offer expedited processing, residency exceptions for stationed members, or training waivers in limited cases, but rules vary greatly — always check the state where you apply.
Is concealed‑carry insurance required by law?
Not generally — no U.S. state currently broadly requires CCW insurance, though proposals have been introduced in some legislatures. Many carriers sell voluntary self‑defense legal/ liability plans and they are recommended by some legal advisers.
Are there restrictions on the ammunition I can carry with a concealed firearm?
Some states impose limits or special rules on hollow‑point rounds (New Jersey is the most restrictive) and several states ban or limit high‑capacity magazines (limits commonly 10–15 rounds). Always check the law where you live and where you trave