Kansas Concealed Carry Laws

Kansas stands as one of the nation's most permissive concealed carry states, having adopted constitutional carry in 2015. Anyone 21 or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without obtaining a permit or completing training. This guide details Kansas' permitless carry framework, the optional licensing system, prohibited locations, reciprocity arrangements, and practical considerations for lawful carriers.

Kansas concealed carry law is governed by the Personal and Family Protection Act (K.S.A. Chapter 75, Article 7c) and related criminal statutes (K.S.A. 21-6302). The state's permitless carry provision applies equally to Kansas residents and non-residents who meet age and legal eligibility requirements.

Laws change, and enforcement realities vary. This article is not legal advice. Before carrying in Kansas or relying on reciprocity, verify current statutes with the Kansas Attorney General or a qualified attorney.

Is Concealed Carry Legal in Kansas?

Kansas is a constitutional carry state, meaning concealed carry of handguns is legal without a permit for eligible individuals.

Since July 1, 2015, anyone 21 years or older who is not prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law may carry a concealed handgun without a license or permit. This applies to both Kansas residents and non-residents visiting or traveling through the state.

Kansas residents aged 18-20 may obtain a provisional License to Carry Concealed Handgun with approved training, allowing them to carry concealed despite being under the standard 21-year-old threshold for permitless carry.

No residency requirement exists for permitless carry. Out-of-state visitors aged 21+ who are legally eligible to possess firearms may carry concealed in Kansas under the same terms as residents.

Concealed Carry Permits in Kansas

Although permits are not required, Kansas continues to issue concealed carry licenses primarily for reciprocity purposes and to satisfy federal Gun-Free School Zone Act exceptions.

License Types

Kansas offers two types of concealed carry licenses:

Standard License to Carry Concealed Handgun: Available to applicants 21 and older. Requires completion of an approved firearms training course and background check.

Provisional License: Available to Kansas residents aged 18-20. Requires the same training and background check as the standard license. Provisional license holders may carry concealed in Kansas but may face restrictions in states with reciprocity agreements.

Issuing Authority

The Kansas Attorney General issues all concealed carry licenses statewide. Applications are processed through the Attorney General's office after submission through the applicant's county sheriff.

Training Requirements

Applicants must complete an 8-hour weapons safety and training course approved by the Kansas Attorney General. Course requirements include:

• Safe storage of handguns
• Actual firing of weapons
• Kansas laws governing concealed carry
• Use of deadly force law
• Industry-standard basic handgun training for civilians

Courses must be certified or sponsored by the National Rifle Association, a law enforcement agency, or a training institution approved by the Attorney General.

Out-of-state training: Courses taken outside Kansas may satisfy the requirement if the Attorney General certifies they meet or exceed Kansas standards.

Renewal exemption: License renewals do not require re-taking the training course.

Validity Period

Both standard and provisional licenses are valid for four years from the date of issuance. The Attorney General mails renewal notices at least 90 days before expiration.

Resident vs. Non-Resident

Standard licenses require Kansas residency. Non-resident licenses are available only to active-duty military members and their dependents stationed in Kansas.

However, because Kansas allows permitless carry for all eligible individuals 21+, most non-residents have no practical need for a Kansas license.

Where Concealed Carry Is Prohibited in Kansas

Kansas law prohibits concealed carry in specific locations, even for permitless carriers and license holders. Violations of location restrictions carry varying penalties depending on the location type.

Statutory Prohibited Locations

Concealed carry is prohibited in:

State Capitol buildings: The Kansas State Capitol and related legislative facilities maintain blanket prohibition.

K-12 schools and school events: Elementary and secondary schools, including private schools, prohibit concealed carry. This includes school buildings, grounds, and school-sponsored events.

Public health facilities without adequate security: Medical care facilities, adult care homes, community mental health centers, and indigent health care clinics may prohibit concealed carry unless they implement full security measures including metal detectors and armed security.

University of Kansas Medical Center health care district: The designated health care district within KUMC prohibits concealed carry.

Correctional facilities, jails, and law enforcement agencies: Any detention or law enforcement facility prohibits concealed carry by the public.

State-owned or leased facilities housing racetracks: Locations where the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission licenses races prohibit carry.

Posted Buildings and Signage

Kansas law grants property owners and managers authority to prohibit concealed carry through conspicuous signage. To carry force of law, signs must meet specifications established by the Attorney General and be posted at all public entrances.

Enforcement: Violation of properly posted signage results in civil consequences (removal from premises, denial of entry) rather than criminal charges. Refusing to leave after being notified constitutes trespass.

Employer policies: Private employers may prohibit employees from carrying at work. However, employers cannot prohibit employees from storing firearms in locked personal vehicles in parking areas.

Exceptions to Prohibited Locations

Several categories of individuals may carry in otherwise restricted locations:

• Law enforcement officers and prosecutors acting in official capacity
• Public employees carrying outside their primary workplace
• Qualified staff authorized by educational or health care institutions
• Individuals authorized by the specific institution or property owner

Concealed Carry Reciprocity in Kansas

Kansas' permitless carry law and reciprocity provisions create straightforward rules for out-of-state carriers entering Kansas and Kansas residents traveling elsewhere.

Recognition of Out-of-State Permits

Kansas recognizes all valid concealed carry permits and licenses from every other U.S. state for holders aged 21 or older. This includes both resident and non-resident permits from any state.

Permitless states: Even carriers from other permitless carry states receive recognition in Kansas, though their lack of a physical permit is immaterial given Kansas' own permitless carry framework.

Age restriction: Kansas only recognizes out-of-state permits for individuals 21+, even if the issuing state allows younger individuals to obtain permits.

Kansas Permits Recognized Elsewhere

Kansas concealed carry licenses are recognized by 37+ states through formal reciprocity agreements. However, the specific states and any additional restrictions vary. Kansas license holders planning to travel should verify current reciprocity before carrying in other states.

New Residents

Kansas residents moving from another state may continue carrying under their previous state's valid permit until their Kansas application is processed. This provision prevents gaps in carry authority during the transition period.

One-Way Recognition

Some states recognize Kansas permits but Kansas permitless carry may not satisfy their requirements. Conversely, Kansas recognizes permits from states that do not recognize Kansas licenses. Travelers should research destination state requirements independently.

Federal Restrictions That Still Apply in Kansas

Kansas' permitless carry law does not override federal firearms restrictions. Federal law prohibits carrying firearms in certain locations regardless of state law.

Federal Buildings and Property

Federal law prohibits carrying firearms in:

• Federal courthouses
• Post offices and other U.S. Postal Service facilities
• Veterans Affairs medical facilities
• Social Security Administration offices
• Federal office buildings (unless specifically permitted)
• Secure areas of airports

Federal Lands

National parks allow concealed carry if the carrier complies with the laws of the state where the park is located. Since Kansas allows permitless carry, eligible individuals may carry in federal parks within Kansas boundaries.

National forests follow similar rules, allowing carry consistent with state law.

Gun-Free School Zones Act

Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(q)) generally prohibits firearms within 1,000 feet of school grounds. However, exceptions exist for:

• Individuals with valid state-issued carry licenses
• Private property within school zones
• Unloaded firearms in locked containers
• Law enforcement and school security

Kansas permitless carriers do not automatically satisfy the federal license exception. Kansas residents who frequently travel near schools may benefit from obtaining a Kansas license to ensure federal compliance.

Interstate Travel

The Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA) provides safe passage protection for individuals transporting firearms across state lines, provided the firearm is unloaded, locked in a container, and not readily accessible, and the individual is traveling between locations where possession is legal.

Kansas' permitless carry status does not extend protection in other states. Travelers must comply with every state's laws when carrying loaded and accessible firearms.

Recent Legal Changes or Trends

Kansas concealed carry law has remained relatively stable since constitutional carry took effect in 2015. The most recent significant changes occurred in 2021.

2021 Expansion of Exceptions (HB 2051)

In 2021, Kansas enacted HB 2051, which expanded exceptions to prohibited locations. The bill clarified circumstances where concealed carry is permitted in previously restricted areas, particularly for certain categories of public employees and authorized personnel in educational settings.

2025 Technical Updates (SB 43)

In 2025, Kansas passed SB 43, which updated cross-references within the Personal and Family Protection Act to align with other statutory changes. This bill made no substantive changes to carry authority, licensing requirements, or prohibited locations.

No Active Litigation

As of early 2026, no major legal challenges to Kansas' concealed carry framework are pending in state or federal courts. Kansas has experienced no significant enforcement controversies since implementing constitutional carry in 2015.

Absence of Recent Restrictions

Unlike some states that have imposed new carry restrictions in recent years, Kansas has maintained its permissive approach. The state has not enacted waiting periods, enhanced permit tiers, or additional prohibited locations since 2021.

Common Misunderstandings About Concealed Carry in Kansas

Several misconceptions persist about Kansas concealed carry law, often stemming from outdated information or confusion with other states' requirements.

Misconception: A permit is required to carry concealed in Kansas

Reality: Kansas has been a permitless carry state since 2015. Anyone 21+ who is legally eligible to possess firearms may carry concealed without a permit, license, or training requirement under K.S.A. 75-7c10 and 21-6302.

Misconception: Non-residents cannot carry in Kansas without a Kansas permit

Reality: Kansas' permitless carry law applies equally to non-residents aged 21+ who meet federal and state eligibility requirements. Out-of-state visitors need not apply for Kansas permits. Additionally, Kansas recognizes valid permits from all other states for holders 21+ under K.S.A. 75-7c03.

Misconception: Any "no guns" sign prohibits carry and violates the law

Reality: Only signs meeting Attorney General specifications and posted at all public entrances carry force under Kansas law. Improperly posted or non-compliant signs have no legal effect. Even properly posted signs result in civil consequences (removal from property) rather than criminal charges, unless the individual refuses to leave and commits trespass.

Misconception: Open carry requires a permit in Kansas

Reality: Kansas permits open carry of handguns for anyone 18+ who is legally eligible to possess firearms. No permit is required for open carry. The permitless carry law covers both concealed and open carry of handguns.

Misconception: Kansas permits allow carry everywhere in the state

Reality: Even licensed carriers face restrictions. State Capitol buildings, K-12 schools, adequately secured health care facilities, correctional facilities, and properly posted private property prohibit concealed carry regardless of permit status.

Practical Notes for Concealed Carriers in Kansas

Beyond statutory requirements, carriers should understand practical realities affecting concealed carry in Kansas.

Vehicle Carry

Kansas law does not restrict carrying loaded, accessible firearms in vehicles. Individuals may transport firearms in any manner within vehicles, including loaded and chambered handguns in the passenger compartment. No permit is required.

Parking lot storage protections prevent employers from prohibiting firearms locked in personal vehicles parked in employer-provided parking areas, even if the employer prohibits carry inside the workplace.

Alcohol and Controlled Substances

Kansas law prohibits carrying while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. No specific blood alcohol threshold is defined, but impairment while armed can result in criminal charges. The safest practice is avoiding any alcohol consumption while carrying.

Duty to Inform Law Enforcement

Kansas imposes no statutory duty to inform law enforcement officers of concealed carry status during traffic stops or other encounters. However, carriers should use judgment about proactively disclosing when an officer might otherwise discover the firearm during the encounter.

If asked directly by law enforcement, carriers must provide truthful responses about armed status.

Employer and Landlord Policies

Private employers may establish workplace firearms policies, including prohibiting carry on company property. However, they cannot prevent employees from storing firearms in locked personal vehicles.

Landlords may include lease provisions prohibiting firearms in rental properties, though enforceability varies. Kansas law does not specifically address landlord restrictions on tenant firearms possession.

Interaction with Other States

Kansas' permitless carry law means Kansas residents traveling to states requiring permits must obtain a Kansas license before departure if they want to carry in reciprocity states. Many reciprocity agreements require a physical license rather than relying on permitless carry status.

Common Questions About Kansas Concealed Carry

Searches for Kansas concealed carry information frequently include questions about specific scenarios and requirements.

Can You Carry a Pistol in Your Vehicle in Kansas?

Yes. Kansas law allows any person who can legally possess firearms to transport loaded, accessible handguns in vehicles without a permit. This applies to concealed carry inside the vehicle and applies equally to residents and non-residents.

Is Kansas an Open Carry State for Guns?

Yes. Open carry is legal in Kansas for anyone 18 or older who is legally permitted to possess a firearm. No permit, training, or license is required for open carry of handguns.

Kansas Concealed Carry Classes

While not required for permitless carry, approved 8-hour training courses are available throughout Kansas for individuals seeking licenses for reciprocity purposes. Classes must be approved by the Kansas Attorney General and typically include range time, safe storage instruction, and legal training on use of force.

Course completion certificates remain valid indefinitely for Kansas licensing purposes.

Kansas Concealed Carry Application

Applications for Kansas concealed carry licenses are submitted through the sheriff's office in the applicant's county of residence. The application packet includes fingerprints, proof of training, identification, and applicable fees (currently reduced to $32.50 paid to the sheriff's office; the Attorney General's portion is $0 as of July 2023).

Processing times currently run 8-12 weeks for both new applications and renewals.

Kansas Concealed Carry Application Online

Kansas does not offer fully online application submission. Applicants must appear in person at their county sheriff's office to submit applications, provide fingerprints, and pay fees. However, printable application forms are available on the Kansas Attorney General's website.

Kansas Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Kansas recognizes all valid concealed carry permits from all U.S. states for holders 21+. Kansas permits are recognized by 37+ states, though specific states and restrictions change. The Kansas Attorney General maintains updated reciprocity information on the official licensing website.

Kansas Concealed Carry Requirements

For permitless carry: age 21+, legal eligibility to possess firearms under state and federal law, no training or application required.

For optional licensing: age 18+ (provisional) or 21+ (standard), Kansas residency (except active military), approved 8-hour training course, background check, and application through county sheriff.

Kansas Concealed Carry Laws for Non-Residents

Non-residents aged 21+ may carry concealed in Kansas without any permit or application under the permitless carry law. Non-residents with valid permits from any state also receive recognition in Kansas.

Non-resident Kansas permits are only available to active-duty military stationed in Kansas and their dependents.

Kansas Concealed Carry Renewal

Licenses expire four years from issuance. Renewal applications must be submitted before expiration. Renewal does not require re-taking the training course. Applications permanently expire six months after the original expiration date; individuals who miss this window must submit new applications with training.

Kansas Concealed Carry Application Status

Applicants can check application status by contacting the Kansas Attorney General's Concealed Carry Licensing Unit at (785) 291-3765 during business hours. Online status checking is not available.

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Kansas concealed carry laws based on statutes in effect as of early 2026. Laws change frequently through legislation and court decisions. This information is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney. Before carrying a concealed firearm in Kansas or any other jurisdiction, verify current laws with the Kansas Attorney General's office or legal counsel. Carrying firearms involves significant legal responsibilities and potential criminal liability for violations.

For official information, visit the Kansas Attorney General's Concealed Carry Licensing page or contact the Concealed Carry Licensing Unit at (785) 291-3765.