U.S. State-by-State Carry Overview

Permitless/“Constitutional” Carry: As of 2025, 29 states allow permit less concealed carry for adults who can legally possess firearms. Examples include Texas (21+), most of the South and Rockies (AZ, UT, KS, OK, GA, TN, ID, KY, etc.), and all of the Northeast except the strict “may-issue” states. (Vermont and West Virginia never required permits.) The remaining states generally require a license to carry concealed (CA, NY, NJ, MD, MA, IL, CT, RI, DC and others).

Open Carry: About 40 states allow open carry (typically without a separate permit). Open carry is essentially banned or tightly restricted in only a handful: e.g. California (mostly prohibited in public), New York (banned), Illinois (mostly banned without special permission), New Jersey, Hawaii, Massachusetts, DC, etc. The permissive states (in practice all permitless states plus many “shall-issue” states) impose few rules beyond standard prohibitions. Always check city laws (some cities may restrict open carry under state preemption rules).

Concealed Carry: Except for DC and a few extreme locales, every state permits concealed carry for law-abiding adults with a permit. Permit processes vary: “shall-issue” (most states must issue if criteria met) vs “may-issue” (discretionary, as in CA/NY/MA). Many permit states now also allow permitless carry for residents or any qualified person (so-called “hybrid” carry laws).

Age Minimum: Most states set the minimum to carry a handgun at 21 (especially since federal rule changes), though some allow 18-year-olds to get a permit (or have separate rules for 18+ military). E.g. Texas is 21, Florida 21, California 21, but Alaska and others are 21, some Midwestern states 18. Check your state: about a dozen states still issue licenses at 18 for qualified applicants (sometimes only to veterans).

Duty to Inform: Most states do not require you to tell a police officer you’re armed. Exceptions (states requiring immediate disclosure even before being asked) are rare: Arkansas, Hawaii, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey and a few others mandate that law enforcement immediately be told of your firearm during an encounter (Louisiana even makes it an offense not to do so). Many others say “only disclose if asked.” In short: in most of the U.S. you do not have to volunteer that you have a gun (just follow any officer’s instructions).

Training Requirements: Training for a carry permit varies. About half the states require some classroom instruction (often 8–16 hours in states like CA, FL, PA, IL). Many permitless states require no mandatory training to carry (though permits, if taken, usually require some). States tend to require a background check and a firearm-safety component to issue a license; if your state issues permits, read the fine print on required training hours and tests.

Major Prohibited Places (general): Common off-limits areas nationwide include K–12 school grounds, polling places (while voting), courthouses and jails, federal buildings (courts, offices), airports beyond security, and secure facilities (prisons, certain campuses). Bars and restaurants vary: some states (like Texas) allow carry in 51% alcohol bars only if unposted, others (like Florida) forbid it outright, and some (like Pennsylvania) allow only if the gun is locked away. Public colleges/universities: some states ban guns on campus (hotly contested in places like CA/NY); others allow carry (like Texas). Park regulations can differ (e.g. National Parks generally forbid guns even if state allows carry).

Reciprocity & Caution for Travelers: While not asked for a table, note that Texas LTC holders receive broad recognition: about 35–40 states honor the Texas license. However, many states now have permitless carry, making a license unnecessary in those states. Conversely, strict states like CA, NY, NJ, and IL generally will not recognize out-of-state permits. Always consult official state resources before traveling – some restrictive states have surprise rules (e.g. New York requires you to remain in your car).

Restrictive vs Permissive: The most restrictive states (California, New York, New Jersey, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland, Illinois, and DC) generally require a license everywhere, heavily regulate it, and ban most public carry. Most permissive are those with constitutional carry (e.g. Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Maine, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wyoming, and many others) where any law-abiding adult can carry without contacting the government. Travelers should be most cautious in the restrictive states above – carrying without a permit there can lead to felony charges. Nationwide, the legal landscape is shifting toward more carry freedom (29 permitless states) but local rules (like private-property bans or urban gun-free zones) can still trap the unwary.

Disclaimer: This summary is for general information only. Always verify the current law in each jurisdiction before carrying a firearm. Gun laws change frequently. Consult official state statutes or a qualified attorney/trainer to be certain of compliance.

Permitless Carry States (Constitutional Carry)

States in this category allow law-abiding adults to carry a handgun concealed without a permit (some conditions may apply). Most also allow open carry without a license. Permitless carry (PC) age requirements vary (18 or 21 in most states). Even in these states, permits can be obtained for reciprocity or other benefits. Duty to inform police is generally not required (or only upon request) in most of these states. No state-mandated training is needed to carry without a permit, but some offer optional enhanced permits with training for expanded carry privileges. Below are the permitless carry states and their specific rules:

• Alabama (PC-18): Permitless concealed carry for residents age 18+ took effect Jan 1, 2023. Alabama still issues concealed weapon permits on a shall-issue basis to those 19 or older for reciprocity. Open carry: allowed without a permit (handgun must be in a holster). Duty to inform: Not required unless an officer asksworldpopulationreview.com. Training: No training required to carry. Unique: Alabama prohibits firearms disguised as walking canes.
  
  

• Alaska (PC-21): No permit needed to carry concealed if 21 or older (in effect since 2003). Alaska was the first state after Vermont to adopt constitutional carry. Open carry: fully legal without a permit. Concealed permits: optional, shall-issue to 21+ for those who want one. Duty to inform: No legal duty to inform (advise if asked). Training: Not required for carry (optional permit requires a handgun course). Alaska’s laws are very freedom-oriented with few restrictions.
  
  

• Arizona (PC-21): Permitless concealed carry for age 21+ since 2010. Arizona offers permits on a shall-issue basis (21+), mainly for reciprocity. Open carry: has long been legal without a permit in Arizona. Duty to inform: No requirement to volunteer information to police (only if asked). Training: No training mandated to carry; getting a permit requires a short safety course or hunter ed. Arizona’s gun laws are among the nation’s least restrictive.
  
  

• Arkansas (PC-18): Concealed carry without a permit allowed for 18+ (clarified in 2023). Arkansas is shall-issue for permits (21+), offering both regular and Enhanced Carry permits for those who complete extra training. Open carry: explicitly legal without a license. Duty to inform: Required only if carrying without a license – those with an Arkansas CHL need not inform. Training: None needed to carry, but a training course is required for an Enhanced permit (which grants carry in some restricted areas). Note: Arkansas’ enhanced permit lets you carry in certain sensitive places off-limits to regular permit holders.
  
  

• Florida (PC-21): Permitless carry took effect July 1, 2023 for age 21+ (Florida was a recent addition to constitutional carry). Important: Florida’s law allows concealed carry without a permit, but open carry is still illegal (except for limited activities like hunting or fishing). The state continues to issue permits (shall-issue, 21+) for reciprocity and other benefits. Duty to inform: Not required unless asked by an officer. Training: No training needed for permitless concealed carry; however, Florida historically required a firearms safety course for its optional permit. Unique: Florida remains one of the few permitless carry states that bans general open carry.
  
  

• Georgia (PC-21, 18 for military): Since 2022, any law-abiding adult 21+ (or 18–20 if in the Armed Forces) can carry concealed without a permit. Georgia had already allowed open carry and now no license is needed for open or concealed carry. Open carry: permitted without a license for 18+ prior to 2022 and remains so. Concealed permits: still issued on a shall-issue basis (21+) for reciprocity. Duty to inform: No duty to notify police that you’re armed. Training: Georgia never required a training course for its weapons carry license, and none is required to carry now. Overall, Georgia imposes few restrictions on carry.
  
  

• Idaho (PC-18): Permitless carry for 18+ has been legal statewide since 2016. (Initially only residents 21+ could carry without a permit, but Idaho law now extends constitutional carry to adult citizens 18 and older.) Open carry: has always been legal without a permit in Idaho. The state still issues Standard and Enhanced concealed permits (shall-issue, 18+ for standard, 21+ for enhanced) for those who want them. Duty to inform: No requirement to inform officers (Idaho does not mandate disclosure). Training: None needed to carry; enhanced permit requires training. Idaho’s laws are gun-friendly with broad state preemption of local gun regulations.
  
  

• Indiana (PC-18): Permitless carry effective July 1, 2022 for 18+, for residents and non-residents. Indiana had a lifetime handgun license but eliminated the requirement to have one for carry. Open carry: legal without a permit (open and concealed are treated the same under constitutional carry). Concealed permits: still available (shall-issue, 18+) but not required. Duty to inform: Indiana has no duty to inform law; you only need to disclose if asked. Training: No training mandate (Indiana never required training for a permit). Indiana’s carry laws are straightforward and aligned with constitutional carry principles.
  
  

• Iowa (PC-21): Permitless carry for 21+ since July 1, 2021. Concealed carry no longer requires a permit, though Iowa continues issuing permits on a shall-issue basis (18+ for professional permits, 21+ for nonprofessional) for reciprocity. Open carry: legal at 18+ without a permit (Iowa has long allowed open carry, with a permit requirement previously only for inside city limits). Duty to inform: No legal duty to inform an officer in Iowa. Training: Not required to carry. (Iowa previously required a training course for a permit, but with constitutional carry, carrying itself needs no training.) Iowa’s current law is very permissive regarding carrying handguns.
  
  

• Kansas (PC-21): Constitutional carry became law in 2015 for adults 21 and older. No permit is needed to carry concealed, and open carry is also legal statewide without a license. Concealed permits: available shall-issue (21+) for those who want one. Duty to inform: None – Kansas does not require notifying law enforcement. Training: No training required to carry without a permit. (The optional Kansas CCH license requires a training course by law.) Kansas is a full constitutional carry state with robust preemption; localities cannot regulate open or concealed carry.
  
  

• Kentucky (PC-21): Permitless carry for 21+ took effect in 2019. No permit needed for open or concealed carry for adults not prohibited. Concealed permits: available (shall-issue) but not required. Open carry: has always been legal in Kentucky without a permit. Duty to inform: Not required; Kentucky has no duty-to-inform law (you must carry ID if carrying, but no requirement to volunteer gun possession). Training: No training mandate to carry. (Kentucky used to require training for permits, but since permit is optional now, training is effectively optional too.) Kentucky’s gun laws are very permissive in all respects.
  
  

• Louisiana (PC-18): As of July 1, 2024, Louisiana allows concealed carry without a permit for 18+ who are not prohibited. (This expanded permitless carry beyond the prior military-only exception.) Open carry: was already legal without a permit at 18+. Louisiana still issues permits on a shall-issue basis (21+ for standard permits) for reciprocity. Duty to inform: Yes – Louisiana law requires you to inform an officer immediately if armed (duty to inform applies with or without a permit). Training: No training required to carry without a permit; however, to obtain a Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit, training is required. Unique: New Orleans attempted to restrict carry even after the state law change, but state preemption generally prevents local gun carry bans.
  
  

• Maine (PC-21): Permitless concealed carry for 21+ (and for military aged 18-20) has been legal since October 2015. Maine still honors and issues permits (shall-issue) for reciprocity and for 18-20 year olds who want to carry before 21. Open carry: legal without a permit at 18+. Duty to inform: Conditional – If carrying without a permit, Maine law requires you to immediately inform law enforcement upon contact. (If you have a permit, you are not required to inform.) Training: No training needed to carry without a permit; a safety course is required only if you choose to get a permit. Maine’s carry laws are otherwise very liberal; the state has virtually no restricted areas beyond federal defaults.
  
  

• Mississippi (PC-21): Permitless carry for 21+ (or 18+ if military) was enacted in 2016. Mississippi law allows concealed carry without a permit only if the handgun is carried in a sheath or holster (including off-body in a purse or bag). Carrying concealed without any holster might still require a permit under Mississippi’s nuanced law. Open carry: fully legal at 18+ without a permit, but the firearm must be in a holster (Mississippi clarified that an openly carried gun in a holster isn’t “concealed”). Enhanced Permit: Mississippi issues standard permits and an “enhanced carry” permit (with additional training) that allows carry in more locations. Duty to inform: Not required by state law (Mississippi has no duty-to-inform statute). Training: No training needed to carry or to get the basic permit; only the enhanced permit requires a training course. Mississippi’s carry regime is permissive, but take note of the holster requirement for permitless concealed carry.
  
  

• Missouri (PC-19): Missouri allows permitless carry for adults 19 and up (18 for military) as of 2017. (Missouri’s constitutional carry law set the minimum at 19.) Anyone 19+ who can legally possess a gun may carry it concealed without a permit. Open carry: legal at 18+ without a permit statewide, though some municipalities had tried to restrict it (state law now preempts most local gun regulations). Concealed permits: still available shall-issue (19+, or 18 for military) for reciprocity. Duty to inform: No duty to inform unless asked by police. Training: No training required to carry; Missouri’s optional permit required a safety course, but that’s only needed if you want the permit. Missouri’s gun laws are very gun-owner-friendly with strong state preemption.
  
  

• Montana (PC-18): Permitless carry legal for 18+ since 2021 (Montana had long allowed unlicensed carry outside city limits, and in 2021 expanded it statewide)usconcealedcarry.com. Open carry: has always been legal in Montana without a permit (it’s part of the culture). Concealed permits: shall-issue permits (18+ for provisional, 21+ for standard) are still offered and useful for reciprocity. Duty to inform: No requirement in Montana law to inform an officerworldpopulationreview.com. Training: No training mandated to carry. (Montana does not require a class for a permit either – proof of familiarity with firearms can be shown via hunter safety or prior permits.) Montana’s laws have very few restrictions; even some public buildings allow carry with permit in this state.
  
  

• Nebraska (PC-21): Nebraska enacted constitutional carry in 2023, effective September 2023, allowing concealed carry without a permit for 21+. (This made Nebraska the 27th state to go permitless at the time.) Open carry: has long been legal without a permit in Nebraska for adults (though Omaha had stricter rules for a time – now state law overrides most local gun regs). Concealed permits: Nebraska still issues permits (shall-issue, 21+) for those who want them. Duty to inform: Yes – Nebraska requires that you inform law enforcement immediately if you’re carrying a concealed handgun when contacted (this applies even under permitless carry). Training: No training needed to carry without a permit; if you choose to get a Nebraska CHP, state law requires a handgun safety course. Nebraska’s recent law brings it in line with other permitless carry states, though you must be 21 or older to carry concealed without a license.
  
  

• New Hampshire (PC-18): Permitless open and concealed carry has been legal for 18+ since 2017. New Hampshire removed its permit requirement (it was already shall-issue) and now any legally eligible 18-year-old can carry concealed without a license. Open carry: always allowed without a permit in NH. Concealed permits: optional now, issued by local police chiefs (shall-issue) mainly for reciprocity purposes. Duty to inform: No requirement to inform officers in New Hampshire. Training: No training required to carry or to obtain a NH permit. New Hampshire’s gun laws are very permissive (no magazine limits, no purchase permits, etc.), befitting the “Live Free or Die” state.
  
  

• North Dakota (PC-18 for residents): North Dakota allows residents 18+ to carry concealed without a permit within the state. (Until 2023 this applied only to ND residents with 30+ days state ID; a new law in 2023 removed the residency requirement, extending permitless carry to non-residents as wellworldpopulationreview.com.) Important: Under ND law, carrying concealed without a permit requires one to carry valid ID and to inform law enforcement of the firearm during any contact. Open carry: North Dakota now allows open carry of a loaded handgun without a permit as of 2023 (previously a permit was required for loaded open carry). Concealed permits: ND issues Class 1 (21+, more training) and Class 2 (18+, lower training) permits for reciprocity purposes. Duty to inform: Yes – immediately if carrying under permitless carry (this is a unique requirement). Training: No training needed for constitutional carry; Class 1 and 2 permits do require passing a written test (and Class 1 also a shooting test). Bottom line: North Dakota is constitutional carry with a few strings attached for those without a permit.
  
  

• Ohio (PC-21): Since June 13, 2022, Ohio is a constitutional carry state for 21+. No permit required for open or concealed carry for adults 21 or older who are not prohibited. Open carry: was always lawful in Ohio without a license (Ohio is an open carry state). Concealed permits: remain available (shall-issue by county sheriffs, 21+) but are optional. Duty to inform: Ohio used to require immediate notification; the law changed in 2022 – now you only have to inform police that you’re armed if asked. Training: No training needed to carry. (Ohio required 8 hours training for a permit, but with no permit needed, carry has no training requirement; training is only if you choose to get the license.) Ohio’s carry laws are now very accessible, with the major caveat that you must be 21 or older to carry concealed without a license.
  
  

• Oklahoma (PC-21, 18 for military): Permitless carry has been legal since Nov 1, 2019 for 21+, or 18+ if in the military. Oklahoma allows both open and concealed carry without a license for those of age. Open carry: has been legal for years and now no permit is needed (previously open carry required a permit, but not anymore). Concealed permits: Oklahoma still issues “Self-Defense Act” licenses (shall-issue) for those who want one or for out-of-state use. Duty to inform: Not required unless asked by an officer. Training: No training to carry without a permit. (Oklahoma did mandate training for its SDA permit – that’s optional now.) Oklahoma’s gun laws are very permissive, reinforcing strong state preemption and even forbidding businesses from banning guns in locked vehicles.
  
  

• South Carolina (PC-18): As of March 7, 2024, South Carolina allows anyone 18+ who can legally possess a firearm to carry concealed or openly without a permit. (This is a major change – previously SC required a permit and even then only allowed open carry with a permit since 2021. Now no permit is needed for either mode.) Open carry: now legal without a permit (SC had banned open carry of handguns for decades until now). Concealed permits: the CWP system remains in place (shall-issue, with fingerprinting and training) for reciprocity with other states. Duty to inform: South Carolina does not require notification to police that you’re armed. Training: No training required to carry without a permit; previously, SC required a training course for a CWP, and it still does for those who choose to get the permit. Unique: SC’s new law set the minimum carry age at 18, which is lower than many states’ 21 – a notable detail of the 2024 Constitutional Carry Act.
  
  

• South Dakota (PC-18): Permitless carry has been in effect since 2019 for 18+. No permit is needed to carry concealed or openly in South Dakota. Open carry: was always legal without a permit in SD. Concealed permits: the state continues to issue Standard, Gold, and Enhanced permits (shall-issue) for reciprocity, but they aren’t required for in-state carry. Duty to inform: No duty to inform in South Dakota law. Training: No training required to carry. (Enhanced permits require a class, but carrying without a permit has no training mandate.) South Dakota is a very gun-friendly state with virtually no additional restrictions.
  
  

• *Tennessee (PC-21, 18 for certain adults): Tennessee enacted permitless carry for 21+ in July 2021 (18+ for military). This allows carrying a handgun concealed or openly without a permit. However, Tennessee’s permitless carry law has some limits: it applies to handguns only (long guns still have carry restrictions), and it excludes individuals with certain recent DUI convictions, etc.. Open carry: handguns may be carried openly without a permit under the law (previously TN required a permit for any carry, open or concealed). Concealed carry permits: Tennessee offers two types of permits – an Enhanced Handgun Carry Permit (requires an in-person class, allows carry in more places) and a Concealed Carry Permit (online training allowed) – but neither is needed just to carry now if you meet the permitless criteria. Duty to inform: Not required to notify unless asked (Tennessee repealed its stricter inform requirement). Training: No training required to carry without a permit. (If you opt for a permit, the enhanced permit requires an 8-hour course.) In sum, Tennessee has broad constitutional carry, but be mindful of the specific conditions (age 21, etc.) and that some misdemeanors can disqualify you.
  
  

• Texas (PC-21): Texas adopted “Constitutional Carry” in Sept 2021 for adults 21 and overusconcealedcarry.com. No license is needed to carry concealed or openly in most places a license-holder could carry. Open carry: legal without a permit for 21+ (handgun must be in a holster when carried openly, per Texas law). Concealed carry permits: Texas still issues the LTC (License to Carry) on a shall-issue basis (21+, or 18-20 for military) for those who want reciprocity or other benefits. Duty to inform: Yes – if you are carrying and are asked for ID by an officer, Texas law requires you to display your handgun license or inform them you’re carrying (for permitless carriers, it’s prudent to inform since you won’t have a license to hand over)worldpopulationreview.com. Training: No training required to carry without a license. (Texas previously required an extensive course for the LTC; the license and training are now optional.) Unique: Texas law prohibits carry in certain places like 51% alcohol establishments and schools – these restrictions apply even under permitless carry, so Texans must know the off-limit zones.
  
  

• Utah (PC-21): Permitless concealed carry for 21+ took effect in 2021. Utah adults can carry concealed without a permit, though Utah still highly encourages permits for broader privileges. Open carry: is legal without a permit at 18+ as long as the firearm is two actions from firing (e.g., no round in chamber) – with a permit or under permitless carry, you can open carry loaded at 21+. Concealed permits: Utah’s CFP (carry permit) remains available (shall-issue, 21+ or provisional at 18) for reciprocity and for those 18-20 who want to carry concealed before 21. Duty to inform: No requirement to inform an officer in Utah. Training: No training needed to carry without a permit; Utah requires a class only if you apply for the optional permit. Utah’s firearms laws are very permissive; notably, Utah also allows carry on school property with a permit – one of the more lenient stances in the country.
  
  

• Vermont (PC-18): Vermont has never required a permit to carry a handgun, a tradition since its state constitution in 1777. Any person 16 (yes, sixteen) or older who can legally possess a firearm can carry it openly or concealed in Vermont; however, federal law effectively raises the handgun purchase age to 18. (Vermont is often cited as the original “constitutional carry” state.) Open carry: fully legal at 16+ without a permit. Concealed carry: legal without a permit – Vermont issues no carry permits at all. Duty to inform: No duty to inform (Vermont has no such requirement). Training: No training mandated by law – but competency is expected of all who carry. Unique: Because Vermont has no permit system, residents seeking reciprocity must get non-resident permits from other states. Vermont’s simplicity is notable – carry is unrestricted for law-abiding citizens, with the only major restrictions being federal ones (e.g., no guns in schools).
  
  

• West Virginia (PC-21): Permitless carry for 21+ has been legal since 2016 (WV was an early adopter). Additionally, WV allows 18-20 year olds to carry concealed if they obtain a Provisional License (with training) – but no permit is needed once you hit 21. Open carry: long allowed without a permit at 18+. Concealed permits: WV issues standard CHLs (21+, shall-issue) and provisional CHLs (18-20) for reciprocity and for 18-20 year olds who want to carry before 21. Duty to inform: No duty to inform law enforcement in West Virginia. Training: No training required for permitless carry at 21+; a training course is required if obtaining a permit or provisional license. West Virginia’s gun laws are very permissive; the state even protects campus carry (for permit holders) starting in 2024. State preemption prevents local gun control, making rules uniform statewide.
  
  

• Wyoming (PC-21): Permitless carry for Wyoming residents 21+ began in 2011, and in 2021 it was extended to all lawfully eligible adults (including non-residents) 21 and older. Open carry: legal without a permit at 18+ (Wyoming has always been an open carry state). Concealed permits: Wyoming still issues permits (shall-issue, 21+) and will issue to out-of-state residents with a reciprocal permit as well. Duty to inform: No legal duty to inform officers in Wyoming (you need not volunteer that you’re armed). Training: No training required to carry. (Wyoming’s permit does require a firearm safety course or equivalent for issuance.) Wyoming’s laws strongly favor the armed citizen; notably, it was one of the first states to lower the bar for non-resident permitless carry recognition.
  
  

Shall-Issue Permit States (Permit Required for Concealed Carry)

These states require a permit for concealed carry of handguns, but issue permits under a “shall-issue” framework (meaning if you meet the legal criteria, the authorities must issue a permit). Generally, no specific “need” is required beyond self-defense, unlike in may-issue states. Most of these states allow open carry without a permit, at least for handguns (with some local exceptions). However, to carry a handgun concealed in public, you must obtain a permit. Age requirements are typically 21 for a carry permit. Many of these states require a safety training course as part of permitting, though a few do not. Duty to inform laws vary – some of these states require you to inform an officer that you are armed if you have a permit and are carrying, while others do not. Below is a breakdown of the shall-issue states:

• Colorado: Concealed carry requires a permit (shall-issue to residents 21+ by county sheriffs). A handgun training course is required to get the permit. Open carry: allowed without a permit for adults 18+, except in Denver, which bans open carry (state law allows local open carry bans). With a Colorado CHP, you can carry concealed statewide and are exempt from most local firearms ordinances. Duty to inform: Colorado does not have a duty-to-inform law, but you must carry your permit and ID when carrying concealed. Training: Yes – an applicant must show proof of firearms training (class or hunter safety) to get a permit. Note: Colorado recognizes permits from all states that recognize Colorado’s, and recently eliminated its minimum carry age for permits (still effectively 21 for issuance).
  
  

• Connecticut: Connecticut requires a state pistol permit to carry handguns, whether openly or concealed. It is technically a may-issue state by statute, but in practice Connecticut operates as shall-issue with limited discretion – applicants 21+ who complete required training and meet background checks are generally issued permits. Open carry: permitted with a Connecticut pistol permit; there is no separate open carry license (the permit covers both). Concealed carry: requires the CT permit; no permitless carry. Duty to inform: No duty to inform in Connecticut state law (though if an officer asks, you must present your permit). Training: Yes – Connecticut mandates a safety course (NRA Basic Pistol or equivalent) to obtain a permit. Unique: Connecticut has strict gun laws beyond carry – all handguns require a permit to purchase and a permit to carry in public. While issuance is effectively shall-issue, permits can be denied/revoked for “suitability” reasons, and CT bans large-capacity magazines and certain firearms, which permit holders must also abide by.
  
  

• Illinois: Concealed carry of handguns in Illinois is only legal with an Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL) – Illinois is shall-issue for residents 21+ (with strict training and background requirements)en.wikipedia.org. Open carry: prohibited – Illinois bans open carry of handguns in public, even with a permit. (Long guns may be carried openly in unincorporated areas with a Firearm Owner’s ID, but open carry of loaded guns is generally not allowed.) Concealed carry permits: require 16 hours of training (the most rigorous training requirement in the US) and live-fire qualification. Non-residents from a few select states can apply for an Illinois permit, but Illinois does not recognize any other states’ permitsen.wikipedia.org. Duty to inform: Yes – if you are carrying, you must inform law enforcement when asked for ID (Illinois law requires you to disclose and show your CCL if an officer initiates an investigative stop). Training: Absolutely – 16 hours approved training for permit, including live fire. Unique: Illinois also requires a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card to simply possess guns or ammo. The FOID is separate from the carry license. Illinois has a long list of “gun-free” zones by statute (public transit, bars, parks, etc.) where even permit holders cannot carry, making it one of the more restrictive shall-issue states despite the formal lack of discretion.
  
  

• Maryland: Maryland now operates as a shall-issue state for carry permits after the 2022 Supreme Court Bruen decision – the previous “good and substantial reason” requirement was dropped. Adults 21+ (and 18+ for certain employment purposes) can obtain a Wear and Carry Permit with training and background check. Open carry: technically allowed with the same permit, but Marylanders almost exclusively carry concealed; open carry is rare and not recommended socially. Concealed carry: requires the Maryland permit – there is no permitless carry. Duty to inform: Not mandated by Maryland state law (you don’t have to proactively volunteer that you’re armed). Training: Yes – Maryland requires 16 hours of training for an initial carry permit and 8 hours for renewals. Unique: In 2023 Maryland passed a law greatly restricting where carry permit holders can legally carry (e.g. public transportation, around schools, hospitals, government buildings, special events, etc.), effectively creating many gun-free zones. These new location restrictions are being litigated, but as of 2025, Maryland permit holders face many off-limits areas despite having the permit.
  
  

• Michigan: Concealed carry of a pistol in Michigan requires a Concealed Pistol License (CPL), shall-issue to residents 21+ who complete training. Open carry: allowed without a permit for 18+ in Michigan in most places (as long as the handgun is registered to the person if it’s a pistol). However, to carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle, you must have a CPL – without a CPL, a handgun in a vehicle is considered concealed and unlawful. Duty to inform: Yes – Michigan law requires CPL holders to immediately inform any officer who stops them that they are carryingen.wikipedia.org. (Failure to do so is a civil infraction.) Training: Yes – Michigan requires applicants to take an 8+ hour pistol safety training class (with firing range time) before applying. Unique: Michigan’s carry permit doubles as a purchase permit; Michigan also has a purchase license requirement for handguns (or a CPL exempts it). While Michigan is shall-issue, note that the state forbids carry (even with CPL) in certain places like banks, churches, schools, hospitals, sports arenas, college dorms/classrooms, casinos, etc., unless explicitly allowed by the establishment.
  
  

• Minnesota: Carrying a handgun in public (open or concealed) in Minnesota requires a Permit to Carry a Pistol, which is shall-issue to residents and non-residents 21+ who complete training. Minnesota law does not differentiate between open and concealed – a valid carry permit allows either. Open carry: legal only for permit holders. Concealed carry: also only for permit holders – there is no permitless carry. Duty to inform: Not required by law; however, if directly asked by an officer, you should of course be truthful. Training: Yes – MN requires a certified training course (which must be renewed each time you renew the permit, i.e., training every 5 years). Unique: Minnesota’s permit doubles as a permit-to-purchase for handguns and “assault weapons”. Also, Minnesota is one of only a few shall-issue states that does not honor permits from many others (it has a restricted reciprocity list). The permit is fairly accessible, but without one, no handgun carry is allowed in Minnesota.
  
  

• New Mexico: Concealed carry in New Mexico is only legal with a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License, issued shall-issue to residents 21+ who complete training. Open carry: is legal without a permit for adults 19 and older in NM (19 is the age of majority for firearms in the state) – you can open carry a loaded handgun without any license. Concealed carry: requires a permit; NM has no provision for permitless concealed carry. Duty to inform: New Mexico does not have a duty to inform law; you are not legally required to notify an officer that you are armed during a stop. Training: Yes – an applicant must complete a 15-hour firearms training course from a certified instructor, including a live-fire qualification, to get a permit. Unique: NM issues tiered licenses that limit which caliber handguns you can carry (you’re only licensed for the highest caliber you qualified with and smaller). Also note, New Mexico bans open or concealed carry into any establishment that serves alcohol for consumption (even with a permit) – a significant restriction for carry permit holders.
  
  

• North Carolina: Concealed carry of a handgun requires a North Carolina Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), shall-issue to residents 21+worldpopulationreview.com. Applicants must complete an approved 8-hour training course (with live-fire) and pass a background check. Open carry: is legal without a permit at 18+ in NC, and widely practiced – but take note that certain sensitive locations (schools, government buildings) and some municipalities may have restrictions. Concealed carry: no permitless carry; you must have the CHP to carry concealed (with narrow exceptions like on your own property). Duty to inform: Yes – North Carolina law requires you to inform an officer if you are carrying a concealed handgun when approached or addressed by law enforcementworldpopulationreview.com. You must also present your permit upon request. Training: Absolutely – state law mandates a specific course (including legal instruction and range qualification) to get the permit. Unique: North Carolina forbids carry (even with permit) at any parade, funeral procession, picket line, or demonstration – an unusual restriction. Additionally, while open carry is generally allowed, local governments can (and some do) restrict open carry on local government property. NC recently repealed its old pistol purchase permit system, but the carry permit requirement remains for concealed carry.
  
  

• Oregon: Oregon requires a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to carry concealed, issued by county sheriffs on a shall-issue basis to residents 21+. Oregon does not honor any out-of-state permits, and non-residents from contiguous states can apply for an Oregon CHL at a sheriff’s discretion. Open carry: of handguns is legal statewide without a permit, but Oregon law allows cities/counties to restrict open carry of loaded firearms by those without a CHL. Indeed, cities like Portland, Eugene, and Salem ban open carry of loaded guns without a permit – if you have an Oregon CHL, you are exempt from those local bans. Concealed carry: strictly for CHL holders only – no permitless carry. Duty to inform: No requirement in Oregon to proactively inform an officer. Training: Yes – Oregon requires a handgun safety course or other proof of training (such as prior military or police service) to get a CHL. Unique: Oregon is known for being one of the few remaining states with no preemption on public carry – local governments can restrict public carry of loaded firearms for non-permittees, as noted. Also, Oregon’s CHL has no photograph or fingerprint on it due to state law, which is a quirk among permits.
  
  

• Pennsylvania: To carry a concealed firearm on your person or in a vehicle in Pennsylvania, you must have a Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms (LCF), shall-issue to residents 21+ by county sheriffs. Pennsylvania does not require any training to get a permit – it’s one of the more accessible permits (just an application, background check, and small fee). Open carry: is generally legal without a permit for 18+ in most of PA. However, Philadelphia (the only “city of the first class”) is an exception – you must have a License to Carry to open carry within Philadelphia by state law. Concealed carry: no permitless carry; an LCF is required statewide for concealment or to carry in a vehicle. Duty to inform: No – Pennsylvania has no duty-to-inform law on the books. (If stopped, you do not have to volunteer that you’re armed, but you must carry your permit and ID and present them if an officer requests.) Training: None required by law for a permit. Unique: Pennsylvania has state preemption over gun laws, which has kept localities (aside from Philly’s limited exception) from adding restrictions. Also worth noting, PA’s license is formally a “Firearms License” that covers concealed carry of any legal firearm and loaded vehicle carry; it’s relatively easy to obtain compared to many states (shall-issue with usually a quick turnaround and ~$20 fee, no class).
  
  

• Virginia: Concealed carry in Virginia requires a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), shall-issue to residents and military 21+ (18-20 with military active duty status). Until 2021, applicants could use online training, but now an in-person or online training course is still required (Virginia slightly tightened training requirements in recent years). Open carry: completely legal without a permit at 18+ in most places in Virginia. (Open carry of a handgun is constitutionally protected under the state constitution; however, cities like Alexandria and Richmond have banned open carry in certain public areas after 2020 – those bans generally exempt permit holders.) Concealed carry: permit only; Virginia has no permitless concealed carry. Duty to inform: No duty to inform in Virginia law. (If an officer asks, you must present your permit and ID, but you need not proactively announce you’re carrying.) Training: Yes – Virginia requires proof of handgun competency, which can be satisfied by a class, NRA course, hunter education, or other approved training. Unique: Virginia prohibits carry (open or concealed) at certain events and places, and in 2020 enabled localities to ban guns in public parks and public events – check local ordinances. The CHP in Virginia is relatively easy to obtain for those who meet the standards, and Virginia has a strong preemption preventing a patchwork of gun laws (with the few exceptions noted).
  
  

• Washington: Washington state issues a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) shall-issue to residents and non-residents 21+, and does not require any training for a CPLen.wikipedia.org. Open carry: of a handgun is lawful without a permit at 21+ in Washington so long as it’s not carried in a manner that warrants alarm. However, you cannot have a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a CPL – in other words, to legally car-carry a loaded pistol, you need to have a CPLen.wikipedia.org. Concealed carry: no permitless carry; a CPL is required to conceal a pistol on your person or in a vehicle. Duty to inform: Not required – Washington law does not obligate you to inform an officer that you’re carrying. Training: None – Washington notably has no training requirement for obtaining a CPLen.wikipedia.org. The application is straightforward (background check, fingerprint, fee). Unique: Washington has some of the stricter gun laws overall (e.g., a ten-day waiting period and training requirement for semiauto rifle purchases, magazine capacity limits, etc.), but its carry permit process remains simple and without training mandates. Also, WA has extensive restricted places for carry (public schools, courthouses, bars if consuming alcohol, parts of airports, etc.). Open carry is legal, but brandishing or causing alarm can lead to issues under disturbing the peace laws.
  
  

• Wisconsin: Concealed carry of a handgun requires a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License, shall-issue to residents 21+ (Wisconsin does not issue to non-residents). Open carry: legal at 18+ without a license in Wisconsin. In fact, Wisconsin was an open carry state before passing its shall-issue concealed carry law in 2011. Concealed carry: no permitless carry; you must have the license to legally conceal a firearm. Duty to inform: No – Wisconsin has no duty-to-inform statute. If an officer asks, you must show your carry license, but you are not required to volunteer it. Training: Yes – Wisconsin requires proof of training to get the CCL. The good news is Wisconsin’s standard is fairly broad: a hunter education certificate, firearms safety course, or prior military/law enforcement service all counten.wikipedia.org. There is no live-fire requirement in the law. Unique: Wisconsin’s carry law allows employees with a permit to store a firearm in their car on company property regardless of employer policy (so-called parking lot protection). Wisconsin also forbids local governments from enacting stricter gun ordinances (strong preemption). One quirk: Wisconsin’s license also allows concealed carry of certain knives, not just guns.
  
  

Restrictive States and Jurisdictions (Historical "May-Issue" States)

This category includes states (and D.C.) that have historically enforced restrictive gun carry laws – often known as “may-issue” jurisdictions. In these places, the law previously gave authorities discretion to deny permits or required applicants to show a “justifiable need.” After the Supreme Court’s 2022 NYSRPA v. Bruen decision, these may-issue laws have been legally challenged, and most of these states are now technically shall-issue. However, they still impose extensive requirements, high scrutiny, and significant restrictions on carry (such as stringent training, numerous prohibited locations, additional permits or licenses to own guns, etc.). Permit issuance in these states often comes with more red tape, and permitless carry is not allowed. Many also restrict or ban open carry. If you live in or travel to these states, expect detailed regulations. Here’s an overview:

• California: California is formally a may-issue state, but due to court decisions it now operates closer to shall-issue (the “good cause” requirement for a carry permit was struck down in 2022). County sheriffs and police chiefs issue Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) licenses to residents 21+ who complete a training class and extensive background check. In practice, most jurisdictions must issue if you pass background and training, though a few still impose subjective criteria (like stringent “good moral character” evaluations). Open carry: effectively banned in California in populated areas – open carry of handguns is illegal statewide (and open carry of long guns is illegal in incorporated areas). Only in very sparsely populated counties can one get an obscure license to open carry, but those are rarely granted. Concealed carry: requires a CCW permit; no constitutional carry. Duty to inform: California has no state law requiring notification of being armed to police. (However, if you have a CCW, you must have it on you when carrying and present it if an officer asks.) Training: Yes – California mandates a training course (8 to 16 hours, including live-fire qualification) for new CCW applicants. Unique & Notable Restrictions: California heavily restricts carry even with a permit: newly enacted laws (2023) ban carry in nearly all “sensitive places” – e.g. public gatherings, public transit, parks, playgrounds, any business that doesn’t expressly allow it, etc. (As of late 2024, these new location-based restrictions are on hold by court injunctions, but older restrictions still ban carry in schools, government buildings, bars, etc.) California also has strict gun laws: all firearms must be registered, and magazines are limited to 10 rounds, which apply to permit holders tooen.wikipedia.org. In short, while getting a CCW in most California counties is now possible, carrying is still fraught with limitations by state law and local policies.
  
  

• Delaware: Delaware is technically a may-issue state – law says authorities “may” issue a concealed carry permit (called a CCDW license) after the applicant meets training and other requirements. In practice, Delaware’s Attorney General announced the state would abide by shall-issue principles post-Bruen. Still, the process is burdensome: applicants 21+ must take an approved training course, get fingerprinted, provide 5 references, and even publish their intent to apply in a newspaper. A judge makes the final decision on issuing the permit. Open carry: is legal in Delaware without a permit for 18+ (except in a few cities like Wilmington). However, open carry is not common in urban areas and may draw police attention. Concealed carry: absolutely requires a CCDW permit – Delaware has no permitless carry. Duty to inform: No duty under state law to inform police if you’re carrying. Training: Yes – at least 8 hours of training (including live-fire) is mandated for a CCDW permit. Unique: Delaware’s may-issue law remains in its constitution and statutes, meaning the issuing court technically has discretion. In practice, most who meet the criteria are being issued permits now, but it’s a slower, more involved process than most states. Delaware is a small state, but its carry license is difficult enough that many residents of the gun community consider it restrictive. Off-limits areas in DE include schools and state parks (unless hunting). Also note, Delaware does not honor any other state’s permits.
  
  

• District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.): The nation’s capital is shall-issue by court order. After decades of being “no-issue,” D.C. was forced in 2017 to begin issuing Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) on a shall-issue basis. Applicants must be 21+, complete a rigorous 16-hour training course + 2-hour live-fire, and register any pistol they intend to carry with the Metropolitan Police Department. Open carry: completely illegal in D.C. (no form of open carry of firearms is permitted). Concealed carry: only with a D.C. carry license – no exceptions (not even for non-residents, unless you obtain a non-resident D.C. license). Duty to inform: D.C. law does not explicitly mandate informing an officer that you’re armed, but because all guns must be registered, an officer will likely know if they run your name/plate. It’s wise to inform anyway for safety. Training: Yes – one of the most demanding requirements in the country (16 hours classroom, 2 hours range, by a D.C.-certified instructor). And you must shoot a qualification test. Unique: D.C. requires each pistol carried to be registered in D.C. (registration involves fingerprinting, background check, ballistic test in some cases, and an exam). Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds in the District. D.C. also has an extensive list of gun-free zones where carry is prohibited, including public transportation, government buildings, schools, bars, stadiums, the National Mall, and within 300 feet of any public gathering or protest. In short, while you can now get a carry license in D.C., the hurdles and restrictions make it one of the most restrictive jurisdictions in practice.
  
  

• Hawaii: Hawaii was effectively “no-issue” for decades – each county’s police chief could issue carry licenses but almost never did. After Bruen, Hawaii’s carry permit law remains may-issue on paper but was struck down by courts; Hawaii is grudgingly moving to shall-issue (e.g., Honolulu and Maui have started issuing some permits). Applicants must be 21+, take a four-hour training class, pass a shooting test, and meet strict background standards. Even so, issuance is still very limited. Open carry: technically allowed with a permit, but Hawaii issues two kinds of permits – one for open and one for concealed (the law is antiquated). In reality, only concealed carry permits are being issued now and open carry remains essentially forbidden for the public. Concealed carry: requires a permit from the county (e.g., Honolulu Police); no permitless carry. Duty to inform: Yes – Hawaii law requires you to disclose to police if you are carrying when asked (and you must have your permit and firearms registration documents with you)en.wikipedia.org. Training: Yes – Hawaii requires a training course within 90 days before applying, covering handgun safety and the law (plus range qualification). Unique: Hawaii’s firearm laws are extremely strict: all firearms must be registered and there’s a 10-day purchase permit for each gun, a 10-round magazine limit for handguns, and many models of firearms are banned. In 2023, Hawaii enacted a law banning carry in nearly all “sensitive places” (hospitals, beaches, parks, restaurants serving alcohol, public transit, etc.) and on private property by default without owner permission – making it nearly impossible to carry legally even with a permit. That law is under court injunction currently, but the situation remains fluid. Bottom line: Hawaii technically offers a path to a permit now, but it remains one of the most restrictive places to attempt to carry a gun.
  
  

• Massachusetts: Massachusetts is a may-issue state by law, but in practice it operates as shall-issue after Bruen for most applicants, aside from a discretionary “suitability” clause. To carry concealed in MA (and even to possess handguns or large-capacity firearms), you need a License to Carry (LTC). Local police chiefs issue LTCs and formerly could deny or restrict them based on “suitability” or lack of need. Post-Bruen, they can no longer deny for arbitrary reasons, but they still can deny if you have any disqualifiers or they deem you not a suitable person (undefined standard). Open carry: technically legal with an LTC, but practically not done – if you open carry, expect to be stopped by police swiftly. MA culture treats open carry as brandishing. Concealed carry: requires an LTC Class A (the only kind now, since Class B was eliminated, which used to allow only target/hunting). Duty to inform: No, Massachusetts law does not require you to inform an officer that you are carrying. (However, you must have your LTC on you when carrying and present it if asked by an officer.) Training: Yes – Massachusetts requires a state-approved safety course (typically a 4+ hour class including live fire) to apply for an LTC. Unique: Massachusetts has some of the most complex gun laws: it has a strict roster of handguns that can be sold, a ban on magazines over 10 rounds (grandfathered if owned pre-1994), an “assault weapon” ban, storage laws, etc. Local police historically issued restricted LTCs (e.g., target shooting only) but since 2022 most of those restrictions have been lifted or are now legally unenforceableen.wikipedia.org. Still, each police department might have its own application process, and the Chief can deny or delay permits for vague reasons. Massachusetts also does not honor any other state’s licenses. While you can get an LTC as an ordinary citizen (especially outside Boston), the state remains hostile to carrying – for instance, carrying in any establishment licensed to serve alcohol for on-site consumption is prohibited. Always double-check Massachusetts regulations if you plan to carry there.
  
  

• New Jersey: New Jersey was historically one of the hardest places to get a carry permit – law enforcement or judges would only issue a permit to carry a handgun (PCH) if you demonstrated a “justifiable need,” essentially an extreme threat to your life, plus extensive endorsements. Bruen struck that down, and now New Jersey is shall-issue in theory. Applicants 21+ must take training (at least 8 hours class and live-fire qualification), pass a thorough background check, and submit references. New Jersey State Police or local chiefs shall issue permits now if you meet the criteria. Open carry: effectively not allowed – if you get a NJ carry permit, it doesn’t distinguish open vs concealed, but practically everyone carries concealed. Open carry in public in NJ (with a permit) would likely prompt an immediate police response. Concealed carry: requires the NJ permit; no permitless carry. Duty to inform: Yes – New Jersey law was updated in 2023 to require immediate disclosure to police when carrying (and you must have your permit and ID on you). Training: Yes – NJ now mandates training for carry permits (NRA basic pistol or equivalent plus qualification on a course of fire). Unique: After losing “may-issue,” New Jersey passed a sweeping law in 2023 creating sensitive places where carry is banned (parks, beaches, theaters, stadiums, bars, hospitals, public transit, and private property by default unless the owner posts permission, etc.). Parts of that law have been blocked by federal courts, but as of 2025 many location bans are still in litigation. New Jersey also requires carry permit holders to maintain liability insurance (this mandate was temporarily enjoined by a court as well). New Jersey bans hollow-point ammunition carry (you can possess hollow-points at home or the range, but not carry them in public), so permit holders typically must carry jacketed self-defense rounds. All guns require a NJ Firearms ID to purchase, and handguns need a separate purchase permit. In sum, while it’s now possible to get a NJ carry permit, the state has layered so many restrictions that carrying is very challenging. Expect vigorous enforcement of any violations.
  
  

• New York: New York state’s carry laws were at the center of the Bruen case. NY was may-issue and required applicants to show “proper cause” (a special need) to get a concealed carry license – that was ruled unconstitutional. Now New York is technically shall-issue: any qualified adult 21+ without disqualifications who completes training should get a license. However, New York responded with the 2022 Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA), which imposed: 16 hours of classroom + 2 hours live-fire training, a written test, in-depth background checks including social media review and personal interviews, and stricter storage laws. Licenses are issued by local county judges or authorities and now must be granted without “proper cause,” though some downstate judges still drag their feet. Open carry: completely illegal in New York – it is against the law to open carry a handgun, even with a license (New York’s licenses are for concealed carry of handguns only). Concealed carry: requires a NY license; no permitless carry. Duty to inform: No state requirement to inform on contact. (Though New York City regulations effectively instruct permit holders to announce to police if approached while carrying.) Training: Yes – New York now has one of the longest training requirements: 18 hours total, plus you must score at least 80% on a written exam and pass a shooting qual. Unique: New York’s post-Bruen law created a huge list of “sensitive locations” where even permit holders cannot carry: e.g. virtually all private property is off-limits unless the owner posts a sign allowing carry, all public transit, parks, Times Square, restaurants that serve alcohol, theaters, stadiums, hospitals, churches (unless authorized), and many more. Many of these provisions were struck down by courts in late 2022 and early 2023, but legal battles are ongoing, and injunctions have been stayed pending appeal in some cases. In practice, as of 2025, permit holders in NY must be extremely careful about where they carry. Also, New York has additional quirks: NYC has its own stringent licensing (NYC licenses are required to carry in the five boroughs; NYS licenses from outside NYC are not valid there without a special endorsement). Magazines over 10 rounds are banned statewide. All ammunition purchases require a background check (pending implementation). New York’s licensing system is county-by-county; timelines and processes differ widely. Upstate tends to be easier, NYC is still very restrictive (few permits, and they were may-issue even after Bruen until lawsuits forced compliance). In short, New York now issues carry licenses more broadly, but carrying in New York is highly regulated and legally risky if you stray into a gun-free zone inadvertently.
  
  

• Rhode Island: Rhode Island is an unusual case – it has two carry permit laws: one (§11-47-11) under which local police chiefs “shall issue” to residents who qualify (shall-issue by court interpretation), and another (§11-47-18) under which the Attorney General may issue to those with a proper showing of need. Historically, local authorities rarely issued and most permits came from the AG with a high bar. After Bruen, Rhode Island’s local shall-issue process is seeing more use. Still, RI remains restrictive in practice. Open carry: allowed only with a local issued permit. If you hold only an AG-issued permit, you are not allowed to open carry. (In other words, a permit under §11-47-11 lets you open carry, but a permit under §11-47-18 – the AG one – is concealed only.) In reality, open carry is rare. Concealed carry: requires a permit (one of the two types); no permitless carry. Duty to inform: Rhode Island law does not mandate informing an officer that you are armed. Training: Yes – applicants must qualify with a score of 195 or better out of 300 on a standardized bullseye target course. Essentially, you need to demonstrate shooting proficiency to get either a local or AG permit. Unique: RI’s dual system is unique. Post-Bruen, police chiefs in towns (shall-issue) should issue permits if you meet the criteria (which include qualification and references). The AG can also issue permits and might still require a reason, though that’s legally dubious now. Expect a convoluted process with possibly an in-person interview, references, and a range test. Rhode Island is small but has some town-by-town variation in how the process is handled. No other state has this two-track system. For now, RI is more permissive than it used to be, but it’s still considered a difficult state to obtain a carry license.
  
  

Note: In all of the above restrictive states, magazine capacity limits (10 rounds generally) and other local laws still apply to those carrying. None of these states recognize permits from other states (except sometimes for visiting law enforcement or armored car guards). Traveling with firearms in these jurisdictions requires extreme care and knowledge of the local laws (see Peaceable Journey or FOPA laws for passing through). Always ensure you are in full compliance with transport laws if you have to bring a firearm into these states.

Disclaimer: Firearm laws change frequently and the above summary is a snapshot as of 2025. Always double-check the current state laws and regulations, especially if you plan to carry a firearm across state lines. This guide is for general information and not legal advice. Consult official state publications or a qualified attorney for the most up-to-date and detailed legal requirements. Stay safe, stay legal, and carry responsibly.