A non-resident concealed carry permit is a handgun license issued by a state to individuals who do not reside there but meet the state’s application criteria. These permits allow legal concealed firearm carry across state lines in accordance with that state’s reciprocity agreements.
Despite the growing number of permitless carry states, a non-resident CCW permit remains useful for several reasons. First, not all states with constitutional carry extend those privileges to non-residents. Second, states with strict permit recognition policies may not honor your resident permit, creating reciprocity gaps when traveling. Finally, some jurisdictions require a valid out-of-state permit to meet transport or carry exemptions under their laws.
This guide evaluates the best concealed carry permits for 2025 issued to non-residents. It compares options based on reciprocity coverage, application accessibility, training requirements, and legal reliability for CCW travel. Whether you're looking to close coverage gaps or legally carry across multiple states, understanding how these permits vary is critical to remaining compliant while on the road.
Understanding Concealed Carry Reciprocity in 2025
Concealed carry reciprocity refers to the mutual recognition of handgun permits between states. If State A recognizes concealed carry permits from State B, then individuals holding a valid State B permit may legally carry concealed in State A, subject to State A’s laws. However, reciprocity is not uniform and often depends on the type of permit and the residency status of the holder.
A key distinction is how states treat resident vs non-resident permits. Some states will only honor resident permits, rejecting the same license if issued to a non-resident. For example, South Carolina does not recognize out-of-state non-resident permits, even from states it otherwise has reciprocity with. This means travelers must confirm that their non-resident CCW permit is accepted before carrying across state lines.
Even in constitutional carry states, which allow permitless concealed carry for residents, a permit is often still necessary for interstate travel. Many constitutional carry jurisdictions do not recognize permitless carry for non-residents or may impose additional restrictions on out-of-state carriers. In those situations, holding a valid non-resident permit from a widely recognized state may bridge that legal gap.
Several changes in concealed carry permit recognition have taken place in recent years. For instance:
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Virginia revised its reciprocity agreements, excluding certain states’ permits based on training standards.
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Florida updated recognition policies post-constitutional carry, affecting how resident and non-resident permits are viewed.
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Colorado remains selective and does not recognize non-resident permits from several states that lack live-fire training requirements.
Understanding how your permit is viewed in other jurisdictions is essential. Reviewing an up-to-date CCW reciprocity map and verifying current attorney general reciprocity agreements should be standard practice before carrying in another state. This ensures compliance and avoids legal complications tied to states that accept non-resident CCW permits selectively.
Top 5 Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits
Choosing the most effective non-resident concealed carry permit in 2025 involves evaluating both its legal reach and administrative practicality.
The permits below are ranked based on reciprocity, training and documentation requirements, application format, and their suitability for lawful interstate travel. Each state listed issues permits to non-residents and offers measurable advantages depending on your travel profile.
Tier 1: Arizona — The Most Balanced and Recognized Non-Resident Permit
- Recognition: Valid in over 30 states, including Texas, Pennsylvania, and Georgia
- Application: Fully mail-in process; includes downloadable forms and fingerprint submission
- Residency Requirement: Not required
- Training Requirement: Proof of firearm competency required; accepts many national certificates such as NRA Basic Pistol
- Permit Validity: 5 years; renewable by mail
Arizona’s non-resident concealed weapons permit continues to be one of the most widely recognized in the United States. The state’s constitutional carry framework allows permitless carry for residents but maintains the permit system for reciprocity purposes.
The process is efficient, does not require travel to the state, and is suitable for individuals seeking coverage across a broad geographic area, especially in the Southwest and South.
Tier 2: Florida — Widely Accepted, Especially in the Southeast
- Recognition: Accepted in approximately 30 states, including Indiana, Alabama, and Ohio
- Application: Available by mail or in person; requires fingerprinting and notarized documentation
- Residency Requirement: Not required
- Training Requirement: Mandatory firearms safety course, including live-fire
- Permit Validity: 7 years
Florida offers one of the most established non-resident concealed weapons licensing programs. Despite being a permitless carry state for residents, Florida maintains a strong reciprocity framework that benefits non-resident permit holders.
The licensing process involves a live-fire component and additional documentation, but its acceptance across Southeastern and Midwestern states makes it a reliable travel license for legally armed civilians.
Tier 3: Utah — Long-Standing Non-Resident CCW Option
- Recognition: Valid in 25 or more states, particularly in the West and Midwest
- Application: Mail-in only; requires photo, fingerprint card, and training certificate
- Residency Requirement: Not required
- Training Requirement: Classroom instruction required through a certified Utah instructor; no live-fire required
- Permit Validity: 5 years
Utah's concealed firearm permit has long been favored due to its ease of access and efficient processing. Although its overall reciprocity has narrowed slightly in recent years, it remains a practical option for those looking to carry in several western and central states.
The absence of a live-fire requirement and flexibility in training delivery make it especially accessible to non-residents.
Tier 4: Tennessee — Strong Coverage with Long Validity
- Recognition: Honored in over 30 states, particularly throughout the South and Midwest
- Application: In-person or notarized documentation required; application through the state’s safety department
- Residency Requirement: Not required, though subject to standard eligibility verification
- Training Requirement: Firearm safety course or recognized equivalent required
- Permit Validity: 8 years
Tennessee offers an Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit that stands out for both its broad recognition and its long duration.
Though the process is slightly more administrative than other top-tier options, the permit is highly regarded for its legal clarity and reliability across Southern states. It remains a top-tier option for applicants prioritizing duration and reciprocity.
Tier 5: New Hampshire — Accessible Permit with Moderate Reciprocity
- Recognition: Recognized in approximately 20 to 22 states, mostly in the Northeast and Midwest
- Application: Simple mail-in process; no in-person requirement
- Residency Requirement: Not required
- Training Requirement: None
- Permit Validity: 4 years
New Hampshire issues one of the most accessible non-resident CCW permits in the country. Its low administrative burden—requiring only a completed application and fee—makes it an ideal supplemental permit for travelers focused on the Northeast.
While its reciprocity is more limited than other states on this list, it remains a practical secondary permit due to its minimal requirements and ease of renewal.
What to Look for in a Non-Resident CCW Permit?
Selecting a non-resident concealed carry permit requires more than reviewing how many states recognize it. Practical considerations—such as cost, processing logistics, training requirements, and residency restrictions—directly affect the permit’s value and feasibility.
Below are the critical factors to evaluate when determining the best out-of-state concealed carry license for your travel or legal needs.
1. Reciprocity Coverage
The most important factor is reciprocity coverage—how many states legally honor the non-resident permit. For example, a non-resident Arizona CCW permit is recognized in over 30 states, making it one of the most widely accepted licenses for interstate carry. In contrast, permits from states like Nevada or Virginia have lower reciprocity, typically in the mid-20s.
Always consult an official CCW reciprocity map or the state attorney general’s website to confirm which states accept a given non-resident permit. Be aware that some states, like South Carolina or Colorado, may recognize resident permits only, even if they have formal reciprocity agreements.
2. Cost and Renewal Timeline
Permit fees vary significantly across jurisdictions. For instance:
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Florida’s non-resident permit costs approximately $97 for the initial application, valid for 7 years.
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Utah’s non-resident permit costs around $63.25 initially and $25 for renewal every 5 years.
Some states charge additional fees for fingerprinting, training certifications, or third-party services. Consider not only the initial application cost but also the renewal schedule and cumulative fees over time when comparing options.
If budget is a concern, look for the cheapest out-of-state gun permit that still provides adequate reciprocity and processing efficiency.
3. Training or Live-Fire Requirements
States differ on the type of training required to obtain a non-resident CCW permit. Some, like Utah, require a classroom course but do not mandate live-fire qualification. Others, such as Florida and Arizona, require a demonstration of firearms competency, which often includes a live-fire component.
If you are applying remotely or do not have access to an instructor certified under that state’s curriculum, training requirements can be a limiting factor. For ease of access, prioritize states with well-distributed instructors nationwide or that accept equivalent training credentials.
4. Application Process (Mail-In vs In-Person)
The application process can be handled entirely by mail in most states offering non-resident permits. For example:
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Utah and Arizona allow applicants to submit forms, photos, fingerprints, and proof of training by mail.
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Nevada and South Carolina require in-person application or residency-related conditions (such as property ownership for South Carolina).
A fully remote, mail-in CCW permit application reduces the travel burden and broadens access. Look for states that provide online forms, downloadable fingerprint cards, and a checklist-driven submission format.
5. Processing Time and Online Accessibility
Processing times vary widely—ranging from 30 to 120 days, depending on demand and administrative capacity. Some states offer online status checks, while others require direct inquiries via phone or mail.
For example:
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Arizona typically processes non-resident applications in 60–75 days.
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Florida often completes applications in less than 90 days and provides real-time tracking.
Choose a permit with predictable processing windows and a transparent application tracking system if time sensitivity is important.
6. Resident Permit Requirement
Some states only issue non-resident permits to individuals who already possess a valid concealed carry license in their home state. Others do not require any existing license.
For example:
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Utah no longer requires a home-state permit as of 2019.
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North Dakota and South Carolina have restrictions that either limit issuance or impose additional qualifications for non-residents.
If your state does not offer a resident permit or you're from a permitless carry state, this becomes a decisive factor when narrowing down options for how to get a non-resident CCW permit.
States That Do NOT Offer Non-Resident CCW Permits
While many states maintain active programs for issuing non-resident concealed carry permits, a smaller number either restrict permits to residents only or make non-resident issuance so limited that it is effectively inaccessible.
This section outlines the states that don’t allow non-resident CCW or impose significant legal or administrative barriers.
States That Are Residency-Restricted for Concealed Carry Permits
The following states do not issue concealed carry permits to non-residents under normal conditions. In most cases, application requires proof of state residency, state-issued ID, or legal domicile.
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Connecticut
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Illinois
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Minnesota
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Nebraska
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New Mexico
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Oregon
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South Dakota
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Washington
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Wisconsin
These states maintain resident-only concealed handgun licensing programs. Even if you meet training and eligibility criteria, you cannot apply without proof of residency. Some exceptions exist for law enforcement, active military, or individuals with business ties, but these are limited and not applicable to general civilian travel.
States That Technically Allow Non-Resident Permits but Rarely Issue Them
Some jurisdictions legally allow for non-resident CCW applications but make issuance so discretionary or restrictive that the permits are almost never granted to the general public. These are often referred to as “shall-issue in statute, may-issue in practice”.
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California: Local sheriffs may issue to non-residents, but nearly all require county residency. In practice, issuance is limited to residents of permissive counties.
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New Jersey: Theoretically allows non-resident applications, but the process is extremely restrictive and nearly always denied unless tied to active law enforcement or specific threat documentation.
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Maryland: Non-resident permits are technically possible but rarely granted. The application requires demonstrating a substantial personal threat, and approvals are highly discretionary.
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Hawaii: May issue to non-residents, but only through a county police chief. No known examples of general non-resident approvals exist.
These states are considered among the hardest CCW permits to get, regardless of residency, due to discretionary standards, lack of public transparency, and high rejection rates. Travelers should not rely on these jurisdictions for lawful carry unless they have resident permits from recognized reciprocal states and a clear understanding of local law.
Holster Considerations for Cross-State Carry
When carrying a concealed firearm across multiple jurisdictions, your choice of holster is as critical as the permit itself.
Legal environments vary by state, and so do expectations regarding firearm visibility, retention systems, and methods of transport. Whether you're traveling by car, staying in a hotel, or crossing into jurisdictions with stricter public carry rules, your gear setup must be compliant, secure, and reliable.
Retention and Legal Compliance in Unfamiliar States
In states where open carry is permitted or where law enforcement has discretion in enforcement, retention holsters are not just a best practice—they’re a legal safeguard. Even in permitless or reciprocity-friendly states, brandishing laws and duty-to-retreat policies may come into play if a holstered firearm is visible or easily accessed by others.
A Level II or Level III holster—especially when carrying in public view or OWB—is advisable in high-traffic areas. These holsters use passive friction combined with active mechanisms (such as thumb breaks, rotating hoods, or trigger guard locks) to reduce the risk of disarmament or accidental exposure during movement or interaction.
This is especially relevant in states like Texas or Oklahoma, where open carry is legal but still subject to law enforcement scrutiny when carried without proper retention.
Choosing Between IWB and OWB Holsters for Travel
For concealed carry while traveling, Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) holsters remain the preferred option due to their low profile and ease of concealment under most clothing types. They are generally the most adaptable solution when crossing between states with varying tolerance for open display of firearms.
OWB holsters, however, offer superior comfort for long-duration wear (e.g., road trips) and quicker draw speed. If used for concealed carry, they must be paired with appropriately sized cover garments to avoid printing or unintentional exposure. OWB may also draw unwanted attention in states with less cultural acceptance of firearm visibility—even when legally permissible.
When selecting the best travel holster for 2025, look for models that include:
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Adjustable ride height and cant
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Modular carry platforms (convertible between IWB and OWB)
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Retention tuning to adapt to movement and physical activity
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Compatibility with accessories (optics, lights) if applicable
Secure Storage in Vehicles and Hotels
Many states require firearms to be secured when not in direct control, particularly in vehicles or temporary lodging. In transit, even with a valid CCW holster for travel, a firearm left unattended must be locked in a secured container or firearm-specific vehicle safe. California, New York, and Massachusetts have especially strict rules regarding transport and unattended firearms.
In hotels, storing your firearm in a suitcase or drawer is not sufficient. Use a cable-lock box or hotel-safe-compatible vault, ideally secured to a fixed structure. Always verify hotel policies, as some chains prohibit firearms regardless of state law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits
What is a non-resident concealed carry permit?
A non-resident concealed carry permit is a license issued by a state to individuals who do not live in that state but meet its legal and training requirements. This permit allows the holder to legally carry a concealed handgun in that state and any other states that honor it under concealed carry reciprocity agreements.
Which states offer the best non-resident CCW permits in 2025?
The best non-resident CCW permits in 2025 are issued by Arizona, Florida, Utah, Tennessee, and New Hampshire. These permits are recognized by multiple states, have accessible application processes, and provide legal reliability for interstate carry. Arizona, for example, offers reciprocity in over 30 states and allows mail-in applications with widely accepted training documentation.
Can I carry a concealed weapon in another state with my non-resident CCW?
You can carry a concealed weapon in another state if your non-resident CCW permit is recognized under that state’s reciprocity laws. However, not all states honor non-resident permits, even if they have reciprocity agreements with your issuing state. Always verify with that state’s attorney general office or CCW reciprocity map before traveling.
Which states do not allow non-resident concealed carry permits?
States that do not issue non-resident concealed carry permits include Connecticut, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin. Additionally, states like California, New Jersey, Maryland, and Hawaii technically allow them but make approval highly discretionary or nearly impossible in practice.
Is a non-resident CCW still needed in constitutional carry states?
Yes, a non-resident CCW is still useful in constitutional carry states. Many of these states extend permitless carry rights to residents only. Without a recognized permit, a non-resident may be restricted or prohibited from legally carrying. A non-resident CCW helps close reciprocity gaps in such jurisdictions.
How do I apply for an out-of-state concealed carry permit?
To apply for an out-of-state concealed carry permit, check the issuing state’s requirements. Most allow mail-in applications and require fingerprint cards, a passport-style photo, proof of training, and a processing fee. States like Arizona and Utah are known for efficient mail-in application systems that do not require in-person visits.
What is the easiest non-resident CCW permit to get?
The easiest non-resident CCW permits to obtain in 2025 include Utah (no live-fire requirement), New Hampshire (no training required), and Arizona (broad training acceptance). These states offer straightforward mail-in processes and do not require state residency, making them ideal for most applicants.
Which non-resident CCW permit covers the most states?
Arizona’s non-resident concealed weapons permit currently offers recognition in over 30 states, making it one of the most accepted non-resident CCW permits in the U.S. Florida and Tennessee also offer strong reciprocity across Southeastern and Midwestern states.
Can I apply for multiple non-resident permits to increase coverage?
Yes, combining multiple non-resident permits can extend your legal carry coverage. For example, pairing Utah and Florida non-resident permits can cover many states that do not reciprocate with only one. Be sure to review overlapping and exclusive coverage based on updated reciprocity maps.
Do I need to complete live-fire training for a non-resident CCW?
Live-fire training is required by some states, such as Florida and Arizona. Others, like Utah and New Hampshire, do not require a live-fire component. If convenience is important, look for states that accept proof of previous firearms training or that waive live-fire requirements.
Are non-resident permits affected by federal gun laws?
Yes. While states manage their own permitting processes, federal law still applies. Firearms cannot be carried into federal buildings, post offices, or across restricted zones like school property—even with a valid permit. Always consult both state and federal laws when planning interstate carry.
What’s the best holster for CCW travel across states?
The best travel holster for CCW use is one that offers adjustable retention, concealment flexibility (IWB or OWB), and compliance with open carry laws where applicable. Choose a holster with Level II or higher retention when open carry is possible, and always use secure storage in hotels or vehicles.
How long do non-resident concealed carry permits last?
Permit durations vary by state. Florida’s non-resident permit is valid for 7 years, Arizona’s for 5 years, and Tennessee’s for 8 years. Renewal requirements typically involve submitting updated documentation and fees but do not usually require retraining.
Can I carry in national parks with a non-resident permit?
You can carry in national parks if it is legal in the state where the park is located, and your non-resident CCW permit is recognized there. However, firearms are still prohibited in federal buildings within national parks (e.g., visitor centers, ranger stations), regardless of permit status.