Louisiana Concealed Carry Laws: Guide Complete

Louisiana adopted permitless concealed carry on July 4, 2024, becoming one of the most recent states to authorize constitutional carry.

Any person 18 years or older who can lawfully possess firearms under state and federal law may now carry concealed handguns without a permit, training, or license. Optional Concealed Handgun Permits (CHP) remain available on a shall-issue basis primarily for reciprocity with other states. Louisiana's concealed carry framework is governed by RS 40:1379.3 and RS 14:95(M).

This guide details Louisiana's permitless carry provisions, the optional permit system, prohibited locations, reciprocity arrangements with approximately 37 states, and practical considerations for concealed carriers. The 2024 law change fundamentally transformed Louisiana from a permit-required state to a permitless carry state while maintaining the voluntary licensing infrastructure.

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 Louisiana, verify current statutes with the Louisiana State Police or an attorney.

Is Concealed Carry Legal in Louisiana?

Louisiana is a permitless constitutional carry state. Any person 18 years of age or older who can lawfully possess a firearm under state and federal law may carry a concealed handgun without a permit, license, or training requirement.

Louisiana enacted permitless concealed carry through SB 152 (Act 1 of the Second Extraordinary Session of 2024), signed by the Governor on March 5, 2024, with an effective date of July 4, 2024. This law eliminated the prior requirement for permits and training to carry concealed handguns.

Age requirement: 18 years old minimum for permitless carry. This is notably younger than many permitless carry states, which typically set the minimum at 21. However, optional Concealed Handgun Permits require applicants to be 21 or older.

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

Legal eligibility: Permitless carriers must be eligible to possess firearms under both Louisiana and federal law. This excludes individuals with felony convictions, certain domestic violence convictions, active protective orders prohibiting firearm possession, those institutionally committed for substance abuse or mental health issues, and other statutory disqualifications detailed in Louisiana statutes.

Concealed Carry Permits in Louisiana

Although permits are no longer required for concealed carry in Louisiana, the state continues to issue optional Concealed Handgun Permits primarily for reciprocity purposes and to facilitate federal requirements.

Permit Name

The official permit is called a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). Louisiana offers both standard five-year permits and lifetime permits with periodic education requirements.

Issuing Authority

The Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (Louisiana State Police) issues statewide Concealed Handgun Permits. Applications are processed through the Louisiana State Police CHP Unit.

Additionally, parish-level permits may be issued by:

• The chief law enforcement officer of a parish (valid only within that parish)
• The sheriff of a parish
• The deputy secretary of the Department (under specific conditions for bonded individuals with existing parish-level permits)

Some parishes have entered reciprocity agreements allowing sheriffs of contiguous parishes to issue permits valid across both participating parishes.

Training Requirements

Applicants for Concealed Handgun Permits must demonstrate handgun competence through approved courses completed within the previous year. Training must include:

• Child access prevention instruction
• Demonstration of shooting proficiency
• Safe handling of handguns
• Live-fire components

Approved courses include those offered by the NRA, law enforcement agencies, military organizations, or equivalent certified programs.

Training exemption for domestic violence protective order holders: Louisiana waives the training requirement for individuals who have obtained a domestic abuse protective order against a family member, household member, or intimate partner. These individuals may apply for temporary 45-day permits without completing safety training.

Validity Period

Standard Concealed Handgun Permits are valid for five years from the date of issuance.

Louisiana also offers lifetime permits with prepayment and periodic continuing education requirements. Lifetime permit holders must complete periodic education courses but do not need to renew their permits every five years.

Resident vs. Non-Resident

Until 2025, Louisiana CHPs were available only to residents with proof of Louisiana domicile via Louisiana ID or driver's license. Active-duty military members stationed in Louisiana were also considered residents for permit purposes.

In 2025, Louisiana expanded permit availability to non-residents through HB 407 (Act 273). Non-residents may now obtain Louisiana CHPs, though specific procedural requirements for non-resident applications may differ.

However, permitless carry eliminates the practical necessity for most non-residents to obtain Louisiana permits since they can carry under permitless carry provisions.

Where Concealed Carry Is Prohibited in Louisiana

Louisiana law prohibits concealed carry in specific locations detailed in RS 40:1379.3(N), even for permitless carriers and CHP holders. These location restrictions apply regardless of permit status.

Statutory Prohibited Locations

Concealed carry is prohibited in:

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

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

Courthouses and court proceedings: State courthouses prohibit concealed carry. Exception: Judges may carry in their own courtrooms.

Polling places: Locations used for voting during elections prohibit concealed carry during voting hours.

Municipal and public meeting buildings: Government buildings hosting public meetings prohibit concealed carry during meeting times.

State capitol: The Louisiana State Capitol building prohibits concealed carry.

Airport secure areas: TSA-controlled areas where passengers and property undergo inspection prohibit concealed carry. Exception: Encased firearms may be transported for checked baggage in accordance with federal regulations.

Schools, school buses, and school campuses: Educational facilities designated as firearm-free zones prohibit concealed carry. This includes K-12 schools and school property.

Class A alcohol-on-premises establishments: Establishments holding Class A liquor licenses primarily devoted to on-premises alcohol consumption prohibit concealed carry. This typically applies to bars rather than restaurants that also serve alcohol.

Parades and demonstrations (for participants): Individuals actively participating in parades or demonstrations cannot carry concealed. Exception: Bystanders and observers not participating may carry.

Places of worship: Churches and other places of worship prohibit concealed carry unless the individual receives authorization from the administrator or governing body of the place of worship.

Private Property and Signage

Private property owners and lessees may prohibit concealed carry through property policies and posted signage. Louisiana law recognizes "NO FIREARMS ALLOWED" signs as having legal force.

Enforcement mechanism: Violating private property signage makes carrying unlawful on a trespass basis rather than as a standalone criminal offense. If property owners discover someone carrying in violation of posted signs and order them to leave, the carrier must comply. Refusing to leave constitutes criminal trespass.

Notable Exceptions

• Property owners are not limited by statutes in setting their own firearm policies
• Encased firearms in airports for checked baggage purposes are permitted in non-secure areas
• Bystanders at parades and demonstrations may carry even though participants cannot

Concealed Carry Reciprocity in Louisiana

Louisiana's permitless carry law and reciprocity provisions affect both Louisiana residents traveling out of state and visitors to Louisiana.

Recognition of Out-of-State Permits

Louisiana recognizes valid concealed carry permits from other states, but only under specific conditions:

Reciprocity requirement: Louisiana recognizes out-of-state permits only from states that reciprocally recognize Louisiana CHPs. Approximately 37 states have reciprocal recognition agreements with Louisiana.

Age requirement: Out-of-state permit holders recognized in Louisiana must be 21 years or older, even if their home state issued permits to younger individuals.

Non-resident status: Louisiana residents cannot use out-of-state permits to carry in Louisiana. Louisiana residents must either carry under permitless carry provisions (if 18+) or obtain Louisiana CHPs (if seeking reciprocity in other states).

Recognition includes both resident and non-resident permits: Louisiana recognizes both resident and non-resident permits from reciprocal states, provided all other conditions are met.

Louisiana Permits Recognized Elsewhere

Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permits are recognized by approximately 37 reciprocal states. However, specific recognition rules vary by state—some states may impose additional restrictions or only recognize Louisiana resident permits.

Louisiana residents planning to travel should verify current reciprocity status and any additional requirements in destination states before carrying.

Temporary Permits and Reciprocity

Temporary 45-day Concealed Handgun Permits issued to domestic violence protective order holders are not valid outside Louisiana. These temporary permits do not qualify for reciprocity recognition in other states, even if those states have reciprocity agreements with Louisiana.

Permitless Carry and Reciprocity

Louisiana's permitless carry law applies only within Louisiana. Other states generally do not recognize Louisiana permitless carry status. Louisiana residents who wish to carry in other states through reciprocity agreements must obtain Louisiana CHPs.

Federal Restrictions That Still Apply in Louisiana

Louisiana'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 beyond security checkpoints

Federal Lands

National parks and national wildlife refuges allow firearms consistent with state law. Since Louisiana permits concealed carry for eligible individuals 18+, lawful carriers may carry in federal parks and refuges within Louisiana under applicable National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife 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

Louisiana permitless carriers aged 18-20 technically do not satisfy the federal license exception, as they carry without licenses. However, Louisiana CHP holders do satisfy this exception. Individuals concerned about federal compliance near schools may benefit from obtaining Louisiana CHPs.

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.

Louisiana's permitless carry status aids Louisiana 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

Louisiana concealed carry law underwent dramatic transformation in 2024 with the adoption of permitless carry. Additional recent changes expanded permit access and strengthened domestic violence protections.

July 4, 2024: Permitless Carry Implementation

Louisiana enacted permitless concealed carry through SB 152 (Act 1 of the Second Extraordinary Session), signed March 5, 2024. This law eliminated the prior requirement for permits and training, allowing anyone 18+ who can lawfully possess firearms to carry concealed.

The law represents a significant philosophical shift from Louisiana's previous permit-required framework, which had been in place for decades.

2025: Non-Resident Permit Expansion

In 2025, Louisiana enacted HB 407 (Act 273), expanding Concealed Handgun Permit eligibility to non-residents. Prior to this law, only Louisiana residents and active-duty military stationed in Louisiana could obtain Louisiana CHPs.

Automatic Permit Suspension for Impairment

Louisiana law provides for automatic suspension of Concealed Handgun Permits for individuals carrying while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. The law establishes a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold of 0.05% or higher as triggering automatic suspension.

This enforcement mechanism applies regardless of whether criminal charges result from the impaired carrying incident.

No Major Court Rulings

As of early 2026, Louisiana has not experienced major litigation or constitutional challenges to its permitless carry framework. No court rulings have modified or clarified the law's interpretation since implementation.

Pending Campus Carry Legislation

As of early 2026, proposed legislation to expand concealed carry on college and university campuses was pending in the Louisiana Legislature. This bill had not been enacted as of February 2026. If passed, it would modify the existing prohibition on firearms in educational facilities to allow concealed carry on postsecondary campuses.

Individuals following Louisiana gun law should monitor legislative developments for potential expansion of carry rights to additional locations.

Common Misunderstandings About Concealed Carry in Louisiana

Several misconceptions persist about Louisiana concealed carry law, often stemming from the recent permitless carry transition and outdated information.

Misconception: A permit or training is still required to carry concealed in Louisiana

Reality: Louisiana has been a permitless carry state since July 4, 2024. RS 14:95(M) and RS 40:1379.3(B) exempt eligible individuals 18 and older from permit and training requirements. Permits remain optional for reciprocity purposes only.

Misconception: Private property "no firearms" signage alone criminalizes carrying

Reality: Louisiana signage carries legal force, but violation is enforced through trespass law rather than as a direct criminal penalty for the signage violation itself. If a property owner discovers someone carrying in violation of posted signs and orders them to leave, refusing to depart constitutes criminal trespass. The signage makes carrying unlawful but requires the property owner to take the additional step of ordering the person to leave.

Misconception: The minimum age for permitless carry is 21

Reality: Louisiana's permitless carry minimum age is 18 years old, making it one of the youngest permitless carry ages nationally. However, obtaining a Louisiana CHP (optional permit) requires being 21 or older. This creates a situation where 18-20 year olds can carry permitless in Louisiana but cannot obtain permits for reciprocity in other states.

Misconception: Louisiana no longer has reciprocity agreements since adopting permitless carry

Reality: Louisiana continues to recognize valid concealed carry permits from approximately 37 reciprocal states for holders aged 21 and older. Louisiana also continues to issue CHPs that are recognized in reciprocal states. The permitless carry law did not eliminate reciprocity—it simply made permits optional rather than mandatory.

Misconception: Louisiana residents can use their out-of-state permits to carry in Louisiana

Reality: Louisiana law specifically prohibits Louisiana residents from using out-of-state permits to carry in Louisiana. Louisiana residents must either carry under the permitless carry provisions or obtain Louisiana CHPs if they want reciprocity recognition when traveling to other states.

Practical Notes for Concealed Carriers in Louisiana

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

Duty to Inform Law Enforcement

Louisiana law includes a mandatory disclosure requirement when interacting with law enforcement. Individuals carrying concealed handguns must inform law enforcement officers that they are carrying if stopped for any reason.

This duty to inform applies regardless of whether the individual is carrying under permitless carry provisions or holds a Louisiana CHP. Failure to disclose when required can result in permit suspension (for permit holders) or other penalties.

Vehicle Carry

Louisiana law does not impose special restrictions on carrying firearms in vehicles beyond general concealed carry restrictions. Individuals may transport loaded, accessible handguns in vehicles under the same terms as carrying on their person.

No special encasement or storage requirements apply for lawful carriers transporting firearms in vehicles within Louisiana.

Alcohol and Impairment

Louisiana law automatically suspends Concealed Handgun Permits for individuals carrying while under the influence of alcohol (BAC 0.05% or higher) or controlled substances.

While this automatic suspension provision technically applies only to permit holders, individuals carrying under permitless carry provisions also violate Louisiana law if they carry while impaired. Best practice: avoid any alcohol or drug consumption while carrying.

Negligent Carrying Prohibition

Louisiana maintains a separate offense of "negligent carrying of a concealed handgun" under RS 40:1382(A). This prohibition applies regardless of whether a person is authorized to carry under permitless carry provisions or holds a valid CHP.

Negligent carrying includes carrying a concealed handgun, intentionally or with criminal negligence, when it is foreseeable that the handgun may discharge. This creates criminal liability for reckless carrying behavior even when the person is otherwise authorized to carry.

Places of Worship Authorization

Louisiana's prohibition on carrying in places of worship includes a mechanism for obtaining authorization. Individuals seeking to carry in churches or other places of worship must obtain permission from the administrator or governing body of that specific place of worship.

This permission is typically granted on an individual basis rather than through general church policy. Carriers should obtain explicit authorization and potentially carry written documentation of that permission when carrying in places of worship.

Parish-Level Permit Variations

While statewide Louisiana CHPs are most common, parish-level permits issued by sheriffs or chief law enforcement officers may have more limited geographic validity. Individuals obtaining parish-level permits should understand that these permits may be valid only within specific parish boundaries unless reciprocity agreements exist between contiguous parishes.

Federal Requirements and Optional Permits

Although Louisiana permitless carry authorizes carry within Louisiana, some individuals may benefit from obtaining optional Louisiana CHPs for federal compliance purposes. Specifically:

• The federal Gun-Free School Zones Act exception requires a "license" rather than recognizing permitless carry status
• Federal firearms purchase procedures through licensed dealers are expedited for permit holders
• Travel to other states requires permits for reciprocity recognition

Individuals who frequently travel near schools, make regular firearms purchases, or travel to reciprocity states should consider obtaining Louisiana CHPs despite permitless carry availability.

Common Questions About Louisiana Concealed Carry

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

Are You Required to Have a Concealed Carry Permit in Louisiana?

No. Since July 4, 2024, Louisiana does not require permits to carry concealed handguns. Anyone 18 or older who can lawfully possess firearms may carry concealed without a permit, training, or license. Permits remain optional for reciprocity with other states.

Can You Conceal Carry in Louisiana Without a License?

Yes. Louisiana's permitless carry law, effective July 4, 2024, allows eligible individuals aged 18 and older to carry concealed without any license or permit. This applies to both Louisiana residents and non-residents who meet legal eligibility requirements.

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car in Louisiana?

Yes. Louisiana law allows lawful carriers to transport loaded, accessible handguns in vehicles without special encasement or storage requirements. Vehicle carry follows the same rules as carry on one's person—eligible individuals 18+ may carry loaded handguns in vehicles under permitless carry provisions.

Louisiana Concealed Carry Permit Online

Louisiana offers online CHP applications through the Louisiana State Police CHP portal at CHP.LA.GOV. Applicants register accounts, complete applications online, and follow instructions for fingerprinting and documentation submission. Users who registered accounts prior to November 2023 must re-register as new users due to system updates.

Louisiana Concealed Carry Class

Training classes are no longer required for concealed carry in Louisiana under permitless carry provisions. However, individuals seeking optional Louisiana CHPs must complete approved training within the previous year. Training must include child access prevention, shooting proficiency demonstration, and safe handgun handling with live-fire components.

Approved courses include NRA courses, law enforcement training, military training, or equivalent certified programs.

Louisiana Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Louisiana recognizes concealed carry permits from approximately 37 states that reciprocally recognize Louisiana permits. Recognition is limited to permit holders aged 21 and older. Louisiana CHPs are recognized by approximately 37 reciprocal states, though specific requirements vary by state.

Louisiana Concealed Carry Application

Louisiana CHP applications are processed through the Louisiana State Police. Applicants must:

• Be 21 or older
• Complete approved firearms training within the previous year
• Submit applications through the online CHP portal
• Undergo thorough background investigations including fingerprints and criminal history checks
• Meet all statutory qualifications (no disqualifying convictions, mental health commitments, substance abuse issues, etc.)

Louisiana Concealed Carry Lifetime Permit

Louisiana offers lifetime Concealed Handgun Permits with prepayment and periodic continuing education requirements. Lifetime permit holders do not need to renew every five years but must complete periodic education courses to maintain their permits. Lifetime permits cost more upfront but eliminate recurring renewal fees.

Louisiana Concealed Carry Laws for Non-Residents

Non-residents aged 18+ may carry concealed in Louisiana without any permit under the permitless carry law. Out-of-state visitors do not need Louisiana CHPs to carry in Louisiana.

Additionally, Louisiana recognizes valid concealed carry permits from reciprocal states for holders aged 21+.

As of 2025, non-residents may also apply for Louisiana CHPs through HB 407 (Act 273), which expanded permit eligibility beyond Louisiana residents.

Louisiana Concealed Carry Permit for Veterans

Veterans may obtain Louisiana CHPs under the same terms as other applicants. Louisiana does not offer specific training waivers or expedited processing for veterans beyond the general exemptions available to all current and former law enforcement and military personnel.

Veterans should verify whether their military training qualifies as approved training for Louisiana CHP purposes or whether they need to complete civilian training courses.

 

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Louisiana 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 Louisiana or any other jurisdiction, verify current laws with the Louisiana State Police or legal counsel. Carrying firearms involves significant legal responsibilities and potential criminal liability for violations.

For official information, contact the Louisiana State Police CHP Unit or visit their concealed handgun information webpage.