Kentucky Concealed Carry Laws: Guide Complete

Kentucky adopted permitless concealed carry in 2019, allowing any person 21 or older who can lawfully possess a firearm to carry concealed without a license.

Optional licenses remain available for reciprocity purposes and to facilitate firearms purchases. Kentucky's concealed carry framework is governed by KRS Chapter 237 and KRS 527.020, establishing both the permitless carry provisions and the voluntary licensing system.

This guide details Kentucky's permitless carry law, the optional License to Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon (CCDW), prohibited locations, reciprocity arrangements, and practical considerations for concealed carriers. Kentucky's approach applies equally to residents and non-residents who meet age and legal eligibility requirements.

Laws change through legislation and court decisions. This article is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified legal counsel. Before carrying a concealed firearm in Kentucky, verify current statutes with the Kentucky State Police or an attorney.

Is Concealed Carry Legal in Kentucky?

Yes. Kentucky is a permitless constitutional carry state. Any person 21 years of age or older who can lawfully possess a firearm under state and federal law may carry concealed without obtaining a license or permit.

Effective June 28, 2019, Kentucky enacted permitless carry through Senate Bill 150 (codified as KRS 237.109). This law authorizes qualified individuals to carry concealed firearms or other deadly weapons in the same locations previously restricted to licensed carriers.

Age requirement: 21 years old minimum. Individuals under 21 cannot carry concealed in Kentucky, even with parental permission or special circumstances.

Residency: No residency requirement exists for permitless carry. Non-residents visiting or traveling through Kentucky may carry concealed under the same terms as Kentucky residents, provided they meet age and legal eligibility requirements.

Legal eligibility: Permitless carriers must be eligible to possess firearms under both Kentucky and federal law. This excludes individuals with felony convictions, certain misdemeanor convictions, active protection orders, and other statutory disqualifications detailed in KRS 527.040 and federal law (18 USC 922(g)).

Concealed Carry Permits in Kentucky

Although permits are not required for concealed carry in Kentucky, the state continues to issue optional licenses primarily for reciprocity purposes and to assist with firearms purchases from licensed dealers.

Permit Name

The official permit is called a License to Carry Concealed Deadly Weapon (CCDW). This license authorizes carrying not just firearms but also other deadly weapons including knives beyond ordinary pocket or hunting knives, clubs, and other weapons defined in Kentucky statutes.

Issuing Authority

The Kentucky Department of State Police issues all CCDW licenses. Applications are processed through the sheriff's office in the applicant's county of residence, then forwarded to Kentucky State Police for background checks and final approval.

Training Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate firearm competency through approved training as specified in KRS 237.110. Training must be conducted by a firearms instructor certified by a national organization and include:

• Written tests
• In-person instruction
• Live-fire training component
• Safe use of handguns
• Care and cleaning of handguns
• Handgun marksmanship principles
• Range firing of no more than 20 rounds at a full-size silhouette target (minimum 11 rounds must hit the silhouette)
• Kentucky laws on firearm possession and carrying
• Kentucky laws on use of force

The Department of Criminal Justice Training offers approved courses not exceeding eight hours in length. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge by submitting a signed statement confirming they have read and understand the CCDW legal handout provided by the Department of Criminal Justice Training.

Training exemptions: Current and retired peace officers certified by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council, members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System (and related state and local retirement systems for law enforcement), and certain federal law enforcement officers are deemed to have met training requirements without completing a civilian course.

Out-of-state training: Kentucky does not currently authorize waivers based on completion of out-of-state training courses used to obtain licenses in other jurisdictions. Applicants must complete Kentucky-approved training regardless of prior training from other states.

Validity Period

CCDW licenses are valid for five years from the date of issuance unless suspended or revoked.

Renewal requires submitting a renewal form to the county sheriff, a notarized affidavit stating continued qualification, and payment of renewal fees. Renewal does not require re-taking the training course. Background checks, including NICS checks, are required for all renewals.

Licenses cannot be renewed more than six months after expiration. A license becomes permanently expired six months after its expiration date, requiring the holder to reapply as a new applicant with training.

Resident vs. Non-Resident

Kentucky CCDW licenses require Kentucky residency. Non-residents cannot obtain Kentucky CCDW licenses unless they qualify under limited exceptions.

However, permitless carry covers both residents and non-residents aged 21+ without distinction. Most non-residents have no practical need for a Kentucky license given permitless carry availability.

Where Concealed Carry Is Prohibited in Kentucky

Kentucky law prohibits concealed carry in specific locations, even for permitless carriers and CCDW license holders. These restrictions apply under KRS 237.110(16) and KRS 527.020.

Statutory Prohibited Locations

Concealed carry is prohibited in:

Police stations and sheriff's offices: Law enforcement facilities prohibit concealed carry by the public.

Detention facilities, prisons, and jails: Any correctional or detention facility prohibits concealed carry.

Courthouses, courtrooms, and court proceedings: State court facilities and proceedings prohibit concealed carry. This applies to areas solely occupied by Court of Justice courtrooms or active court proceedings.

Meetings of government bodies: Meetings of county governing bodies, municipal councils, special districts, the General Assembly, or General Assembly committees prohibit concealed carry. Exception: Members of these bodies holding valid CCDW licenses may carry at meetings of the body of which they are members.

Portions of establishments licensed to dispense alcohol: Areas primarily devoted to dispensing beer or alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption prohibit concealed carry. This restriction applies to bar areas, not necessarily entire restaurants with bars.

Elementary and secondary schools: K-12 school facilities prohibit concealed carry without consent of school authorities under KRS 527.070. This includes public and private elementary and secondary schools.

Child care facilities: Child-caring facilities (as defined in KRS 199.011), day-care centers (KRS 199.894), and certified family child-care homes (KRS 199.8982) prohibit concealed carry. Exception: Owners of certified child-care homes may carry in their own residences used as certified child-care homes.

Controlled airport areas: Airport areas where access is controlled through inspection of persons and property (TSA screening areas and beyond) prohibit concealed carry.

Federal law prohibited locations: Any location where federal law prohibits firearms, including federal facilities, federal courthouses, and post offices.

Government Building Signage

KRS 237.115 allows units of state and local government to prohibit concealed carry in buildings they own, lease, or occupy by posting clear signs at all public entrances. Postsecondary education facilities (colleges, universities, technical schools, community colleges) also have this authority.

Important distinction: Violation of government building signage alone does not result in criminal penalties. Violators may be ordered to leave the premises. Refusing to leave after being ordered constitutes criminal trespass.

Private Property Restrictions

Private property owners may prohibit concealed carry on their premises. Kentucky law does not grant private signage force of law absent the trespass process.

If a property owner or manager discovers someone carrying on prohibited private property and orders them to leave, the carrier must comply. Refusing to leave constitutes criminal trespass. The signage itself does not create criminal liability—only the refusal to leave after being informed.

Exceptions to Prohibited Locations

Several locations and scenarios are explicitly exempt from government restrictions:

• Public housing units
• Highway rest areas
• Firing ranges and shooting facilities
• Private dwellings

No government signage alone criminalizes carrying without the trespass process being invoked.

Concealed Carry Reciprocity in Kentucky

Kentucky's permitless carry law and reciprocity provisions create favorable conditions for both Kentucky residents traveling out of state and visitors to Kentucky.

Recognition of Out-of-State Permits

Kentucky recognizes all valid concealed carry licenses from every other U.S. state for holders aged 21 or older. This recognition applies to both resident and non-resident permits from other states.

Age limitation: Kentucky only recognizes out-of-state permits for individuals 21+, even if the issuing state allows younger permit holders.

Subject to Kentucky law: Out-of-state permit holders must comply with all Kentucky restrictions, including prohibited locations listed in KRS 237.110 and KRS 527.020.

Kentucky Permits Recognized Elsewhere

Kentucky CCDW licenses are recognized by 37+ states through reciprocity agreements. The Kentucky State Police maintains current reciprocity information on their official website.

States recognizing Kentucky CCDW include Alabama, Alaska, and Arizona, among others. However, some states limit recognition to Kentucky resident permits only, not accepting Kentucky non-resident permits (though Kentucky issues very few non-resident permits).

No Notable One-Way Issues

Kentucky maintains full reciprocity with most recognizing states. However, carriers should always verify specific requirements in destination states, as some states impose additional restrictions or requirements on out-of-state permit holders.

Permitless Carry and Reciprocity

Kentucky's permitless carry law applies only within Kentucky. Other states generally do not recognize permitless carry status from Kentucky or other permitless carry states. Kentucky residents who wish to carry in other states through reciprocity must obtain a Kentucky CCDW license.

Federal Restrictions That Still Apply in Kentucky

Kentucky's permitless carry law does not supersede federal firearms restrictions. Federal law prohibits firearms in certain locations and circumstances regardless of state law.

Federal Buildings and Property

Federal law prohibits carrying firearms in:

• Federal courthouses
• Post offices and U.S. Postal Service facilities
• Veterans Affairs medical facilities
• Social Security Administration offices
• Other federal office buildings (unless specifically authorized)
• TSA-secured airport areas

Federal Lands

National parks and national forests allow firearms consistent with state law. Since Kentucky permits concealed carry for eligible individuals 21+, lawful carriers may carry in federal parks and forests within Kentucky under applicable National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service regulations.

Gun-Free School Zones Act

Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(q)) prohibits firearms within 1,000 feet of school grounds with limited exceptions. These exceptions include:

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

Kentucky permitless carriers technically do not satisfy the federal license exception. However, Kentucky CCDW license holders do satisfy this exception. Individuals who frequently travel near schools may benefit from obtaining a CCDW license to ensure federal compliance.

Interstate Travel

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

Kentucky's permitless carry status aids Kentucky residents but does not extend protection in states with stricter laws. Travelers must comply with each state's laws when carrying loaded, accessible firearms.

Recent Legal Changes or Trends

Kentucky concealed carry law has evolved primarily through the 2019 adoption of permitless carry. Recent developments focus on potential age reductions rather than new restrictions.

2019 Permitless Carry Adoption

On June 27, 2019, Kentucky enacted permitless carry through Senate Bill 150, codified as KRS 237.109. This change allowed any person 21 or older who can lawfully possess firearms to carry concealed without a license in the same locations as licensed carriers.

The 2019 law did not eliminate the CCDW licensing system but made it optional rather than mandatory.

2024-2026 Pending Age Reduction Bills

Multiple bills have been introduced to lower the permitless carry age from 21 to 18:

• HB 259 (2024): Proposed lowering the age to 18 but did not pass.
• SB 75 and HB 321 (2026 session): These bills cleared legislative committees as of early 2026 but have not been enacted into law as of February 2026.

Current status: The permitless carry age remains 21 years old. Pending legislation may change this, but no age reduction has taken effect. Individuals following concealed carry news should monitor the 2026 Regular Session for potential passage of age reduction bills.

No Major Court Rulings

Kentucky has experienced no significant litigation or constitutional challenges to its permitless carry framework since 2019. No court rulings have modified or clarified the law's interpretation or application.

Enforcement Stability

Kentucky State Police and local law enforcement have reported no major enforcement controversies or shifts in interpretation since permitless carry implementation. The system remains stable with consistent application.

Common Misunderstandings About Concealed Carry in Kentucky

Several misconceptions persist about Kentucky concealed carry law, often stemming from outdated information or confusion about the 2019 permitless carry change.

Misconception: A permit is required to carry concealed in Kentucky

Reality: Kentucky has been a permitless carry state since June 28, 2019. KRS 237.109 allows anyone 21 or older who is otherwise eligible to possess firearms to carry concealed without any permit, license, or training requirement. Licenses are optional for reciprocity purposes only.

Misconception: Non-residents cannot carry concealed without a Kentucky permit

Reality: Eligible non-residents aged 21+ may carry concealed in Kentucky under the same permitless carry provisions as residents. Out-of-state visitors do not need Kentucky CCDW licenses. Additionally, Kentucky recognizes valid concealed carry permits from all other states.

Misconception: Government building signage alone makes carrying a crime

Reality: KRS 237.115 allows government entities to post signs prohibiting concealed carry, but violation of signage alone carries no criminal penalty. Violators may be ordered to leave. Only refusing to leave after being ordered constitutes criminal trespass. The sign itself does not create criminal liability.

Misconception: The permitless carry age has been lowered to 18

Reality: The minimum age remains 21 years old. While bills to lower the age to 18 have been introduced and cleared committees in 2024 and 2026, none have been enacted into law as of February 2026. Individuals under 21 cannot legally carry concealed in Kentucky.

Misconception: Permitless carry in Kentucky allows carry in other states

Reality: Kentucky's permitless carry law applies only within Kentucky. Other states do not recognize Kentucky permitless carry status. Kentucky residents who want to carry in reciprocity states must obtain a Kentucky CCDW license.

Practical Notes for Concealed Carriers in Kentucky

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

Vehicle Carry

KRS 527.020(8) addresses vehicle carry extensively. A firearm (loaded or unloaded) is not considered concealed if located in enclosed containers, compartments, or storage spaces installed as original equipment by the vehicle manufacturer. This includes glove compartments, center consoles, and seat pockets, whether locked or unlocked.

No person or organization—public or private—may prohibit keeping loaded or unloaded firearms or ammunition in vehicles in accordance with this provision. Employers cannot prevent employees from storing firearms in personal vehicles in parking areas, even if the employer prohibits carrying inside the workplace.

Transporting Minors and Firearms

Kentucky law at KRS 527.100 addresses minors possessing handguns. Individuals under 18 generally cannot possess handguns except in specific circumstances: hunter safety courses, firearms training, target shooting at established ranges, organized competitions, hunting with valid licenses, traveling to/from these activities with unloaded handguns, on property controlled by an adult with permission, or at their residence with parental permission when justified in using force under KRS Chapter 503.

Adults transporting minors should ensure compliance with these restrictions to avoid unlawful possession charges against the minor.

Alcohol and Controlled Substances

While Kentucky law prohibits carrying in establishments primarily devoted to dispensing alcohol for on-premises consumption, no specific prohibition exists against carrying while personally consuming alcohol in other contexts. However, individuals under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances cannot lawfully possess firearms under federal and state law.

Best practice: Avoid any alcohol consumption while carrying concealed to eliminate ambiguity about impairment.

Interaction with Law Enforcement

Kentucky imposes no duty to inform law enforcement officers of concealed carry status during traffic stops or encounters. However, carriers should use judgment about when disclosure may prevent misunderstandings.

The Kentucky State Police maintains an automated database of CCDW license holders available to law enforcement. Officers who run identification during traffic stops may receive notification of CCDW license status.

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

Private Employer Policies

Private employers may establish workplace firearms policies, including complete prohibition of carry on company property. However, KRS 527.020(8) protects storage of firearms in personal vehicles in parking areas—employers cannot prohibit this protected storage.

Employees who carry in violation of employer policy may face employment consequences (termination, discipline) even though no criminal violation occurs. Workplace policy violations are employment matters rather than criminal matters.

Training Certificate Validity

For those obtaining CCDW licenses, valid training certificates remain valid for life. If an applicant loses their training certificate, they can request a duplicate from the Department of Criminal Justice Training by providing full name, social security number, and current address by fax to (859) 622-8387 or by mail. Applicants do not need to retake training to obtain duplicate certificates.

Online-only training courses are not accepted for Kentucky CCDW applications. Training must include in-person instruction and live-fire components.

Common Questions About Kentucky Concealed Carry

Search engines frequently surface questions about Kentucky concealed carry reflecting common concerns and scenarios.

Can I Carry a Loaded Pistol in My Car in Kentucky?

Yes. Kentucky law allows carrying loaded, accessible firearms in vehicles. Since 2019, eligible individuals aged 21+ may carry loaded handguns concealed anywhere in their vehicles without permits. Additionally, KRS 527.020(8) explicitly states that firearms in factory-installed compartments (glove boxes, center consoles) are not considered concealed weapons, regardless of permit status.

Can I Carry a Gun in Kentucky with an Out-of-State License?

Yes. Kentucky recognizes all valid concealed carry licenses from all other states for holders aged 21 or older. Out-of-state permit holders may carry concealed in Kentucky subject to Kentucky's prohibited location restrictions.

Additionally, permitless carry applies to non-residents, so out-of-state visitors aged 21+ who are legally eligible to possess firearms may carry concealed without any license.

What Are the Requirements for a Concealed Carry Permit in Kentucky?

For a Kentucky CCDW license, applicants must:

• Be 21 years of age or older
• Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted to the United States
• Be a Kentucky resident
• Be eligible to possess firearms under state and federal law
• Complete approved firearms training (approximately 8 hours with live-fire component)
• Pass background checks including NICS
• Not have disqualifying convictions (felonies, domestic violence misdemeanors, recent assault or terroristic threatening, DUI within three years, controlled substance offenses within three years)
• Not be subject to emergency protective orders or domestic violence orders
• Not owe child support arrearages exceeding one year
• Demonstrate knowledge of use of force law

Can I Carry a Gun in My Pocket in Kentucky?

Yes, if you are 21 or older and legally eligible to possess firearms. Kentucky's permitless carry law allows concealed carry "on or about" the person, which includes pocket carry. No permit is required for pocket carry of handguns as long as the carrier meets age and legal eligibility requirements.

Kentucky Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Kentucky recognizes concealed carry permits from all 50 states for holders aged 21+. Kentucky CCDW licenses are recognized by 37+ states. However, recognition rules vary by state—some states impose additional requirements or restrict recognition to resident permits only.

Kentucky residents planning to travel should verify specific reciprocity and requirements in destination states before carrying.

Kentucky Concealed Carry Laws for Non-Residents

Non-residents aged 21+ may carry concealed in Kentucky without obtaining any permit under the permitless carry law. Non-residents with valid concealed carry permits from their home states also receive recognition in Kentucky.

Kentucky does not issue non-resident CCDW licenses except to active-duty military stationed in Kentucky and their dependents.

Kentucky Concealed Carry in Vehicle

Loaded handguns may be carried anywhere in vehicles by eligible individuals aged 21+. Firearms in factory-installed compartments (glove boxes, center consoles, seat pockets) are explicitly not considered concealed weapons regardless of permit status under KRS 527.020(8).

Kentucky CCDW Renewal

CCDW licenses expire five years after issuance. Renewal requires submitting a renewal form and notarized affidavit through the county sheriff, paying renewal fees, and passing background checks. Renewal does not require retaking training.

The Kentucky State Police mails renewal notices 120 days before expiration. Late renewals (within six months of expiration) require an additional $15 late fee. Licenses permanently expire six months after expiration, requiring new applications with training.

KY Concealed Carry Permit Online Application

The Kentucky State Police offers online CCDW applications through their portal. New applicants must register and create accounts at the Kentucky State Police CCDW portal. After completing the online application, applicants must still appear in person at their county sheriff's office to submit documentation, provide fingerprints, and pay fees.

Kentucky Concealed Carry Application

Applications are submitted through the sheriff's office in the applicant's county of residence. Required documentation includes:

• Kentucky driver's license or official photo ID with proof of Kentucky residency
• Original training certificate plus copy
• Separate photo for the application (passport-style photo on photo paper)
• Fees: $40 to Kentucky State Police (check or money order to "Kentucky State Treasurer") and approximately $20 sheriff's office processing fee

KY Concealed Carry Class Near Me

Kentucky requires CCDW applicants to complete training by instructors certified by national organizations. The Department of Criminal Justice Training maintains a listing of certified instructors statewide. County sheriff's offices also maintain lists of approved instructors in their areas.

Training courses typically run approximately 8 hours and include classroom instruction, written tests, and live-fire range components. Costs vary by instructor.

---

 

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Kentucky concealed carry laws based on statutes in effect as of early 2026. Laws change through legislation, court decisions, and regulatory updates. 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 Kentucky or any other jurisdiction, verify current laws with the Kentucky State Police or legal counsel. Carrying firearms involves significant legal responsibilities and potential criminal liability for violations.

For official information, contact the Kentucky State Police CCDW Section at (502) 782-9792 or visit their CCDW webpage.