Concealed Carry Reciprocity by State for 2022

 

Concealed Carry Reciprocity by State for 2022 

 

Concealed Carry Reciprocity by State for 2022 

View original story on Armed American News

by Lee Williams | Jul 4, 2022 | News 

 

Gun carry laws can be intimidating. Very intimidating. 

Concealed carry, open carry, reciprocity, when and where can I carry my firearm? It can seem overwhelming to understand all the laws.

If you are anything like me, your firearm has become an extension of your body. I feel almost incomplete without it… like if I left my phone at home, or forgot my wallet, if it’s not attached to me. 

Or, maybe you only carry a firearm on certain kinds of days or trips. 

I’ve spoken to many people who are more likely to carry when they go camping, or on the weekend, when traveling further from home. 

No matter “when” or “how” you choose to carry your firearm, you need to know the law.

My private and professional life have required me to travel. A lot. As you might have guessed, if I go, so does my firearm. 

One thing is for sure, I have spent too many hours searching online trying to find the concealed handgun laws for states I didn’t live in.

Lucky for you, I have put together a quick reference guide, but I wanted to take it a step further and give you some additional background. 

I have broken up the list in three ways to help you navigate to the information you need quickly.

 

PRO TIP #1: Bookmark this page right now! 

Refer back from time to time as we update the page regularly.

 

How To Legally Carry A Firearm?

 

Let’s start with the basics. The word “carry” is sometimes misunderstood. 

To “carry a firearm” means that a person has a firearm in their possession, either on their person or in close proximity. 

“Close proximity” in this case could be a purse, backpack, glovebox, under a seat or laying on a dashboard. 

Generally speaking, to “carry a firearm” is used to describe when a person leaves their home or property with a firearm. 

State Carry laws are typically broken into two main categories: Open Carry and Concealed Carry.

Open Carry and Concealed Carry both have subsections, vary by state, and can even vary by county or town laws.

 

What is Open Carry?

Open Carry means to carry a firearm in a way that other people can see the firearm, or a part of the firearm, and the most common use is when a firearm is in a holster worn on the waist. 

Think about it like this. 

If a person is wearing a properly sized shirt, tucked into properly fitted jeans, resting on their waist. 

They are wearing a belt with a firearm in a holster. 

They walk into a public place where other people could visibly see the firearm. 

That is the most common use of, and most commonly referred to as, Open Carry.

In some states, it is specified that Open Carry is achieved when the firearm is “partially visible”.  

Other states require the firearm to be “fully visible” to achieve Open Carry. 

I am using the word “achieve” here to emphasize the difference between Open Carry and Concealed Carry. 

This is a major distinction between the states and an important part of our responsibility to carry legally. 

 

Reasons To Use Open Carry

Let’s be honest, Open Carry is the most practical carry option if you ever find yourself needing to access your firearm. 

A firearm on the dominant shooting hand side of your waist, with an unobstructed path of your hand to pistol grip, with an unobstructed path to draw, aim, and fire at a target is the fastest method. 

Competitive shooters, military and police all use this method for a reason. It is highly effective. 

None of us ever want to fire a weapon in defense of our lives or the lives of others. 

However, if we are ever forced into that situation against our will, we should be able to do so unencumbered. 

Another reason to carry openly is as a deterrent without aggression. 

Deterrence measures have been used for years in all types of security. 

“Smile you are on camera” or “This area is under video surveillance” signs openly tell would-be thieves or intruders they are likely to be caught if they do bad things.

Police in marked cars and uniforms are deterrents. If you are driving down the road and see a marked car, you immediately check your speed, even if you know you are not speeding. 

It’s human nature. We all do it. 

And sometimes, we may choose to Open Carry because of the time of year, the temperature, or the clothing required for the occasion. 

It is also quite possible that Open Carry turns into Concealed Carry simply because you slip on a jacket. 

 

Reasons Not To Use Open Carry

Some people believe that Open Carry makes other people uncomfortable in public places.

Although I can’t speak for everyone, I think some of the “uncomfortable” part depends on if the person carrying looks like they belong.

Before we get carried away with profiling, just picture this in your mind.

A person walks into a store. It is clear they are wearing a pistol in a holster snugly against their waist. They walk past you with purpose, make eye contact, smile and continue to their destination. Their body moves naturally and they are apparently oblivious to the firearm on their side. 

Compare that situation to this one. 

A person walks into a store. It is clear they are wearing a pistol on their waist because their belt is too loose and they are constantly touching the weapon to control it. They are meandering without any discernible destination. They are looking all around but not making eye contact. Their body moves like the firearm is as foreign to them as if they grew a third leg in the last half hour. 

See the difference? Alarm can happen because of things other than “just seeing a firearm”.

It may be portrayed as the firearm being the culprit but rarely is that the case upon further examination. 

At certain times of the year, especially during cold or wet weather, you may choose not to Open Carry. 

For me, I like to keep my firearm close to my body and out of any type of weather. 

Although it is true that normal rain, snow and dust will not impact the function of most common firearms, I just choose to protect them with a layer of clothing whenever possible.

 

What Are The Types Of Open Carry

There are four types of Open Carry which can be applied to all 50 states:

 

Permissive Carry

Licensed Open Carry / Not Addressed States

Anomalous Open Carry States

Non-Permissive Open Carry States

 

Each state has its own rules on who, what, where, why and how a person may legally Open Carry a firearm. 

Not to worry, we are going to go through the states in groups to make it easy. First we need to learn what the four types of Open Carry mean. 

 

What Are Permissive Open Carry States

Permissive Open Carry States are the most friendly states to allow Open Carry. 

In short, any person who can legally possess a firearm in the state is also allowed Open Carry without needing a permit or license. This includes states like Alaska, New Mexico, West Virginia and Utah. 

 

What Are Licensed Open Carry States / Not Addressed States

Licensed Open Carry states allow Open Carry for legal firearm owners only after they have gotten a license or permit to do so. This includes states like Connecticut and Indiana.

In some states, the laws do not specifically address Open Carry, but they require a person to obtain a license or permit before carrying a firearm at all. This includes states like Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. 

Not every state has a specific law against Open Carry. However, it is important to think about your surroundings and the place where you intend to visit. 

If Open Carry is not a normal occurrence, or considered to be out of the ordinary, you may want to proceed with caution.

It never hurts to visit your local law enforcement (unarmed or course) to ask about city/county/town laws which may not be covered here. (More on this in the next section) 

In my experience, law enforcement is very helpful explaining the laws and pointing you to additional resources. 

 

What Are Anomalous Open Carry States

Anomalous Open Carry States generally allow Open Carry at the state level but local governments have enacted laws which are more strict than the state mandate. 

In other words, the state says it is legal, a particular town may say it is “legal if”.

These are the toughest states to remain legal while using Open Carry because there’s so much to remember as you cross into different locals. 

States like Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oregon and Tennessee all have state laws which allow for Open Carry but allow local governments to provide additional restrictions. 

In California, for any county with a population under 200,000 people, the sheriff, or the chief of police of any city within that county, may issue a license to carry an exposed firearm. 

In Michigan, there is a difference between residents vs. non-residents. Open Carry is allowed without a license for those over the age of 18, who can legally own a firearm, and the firearm is registered in their name. On the other hand, non-residents must have a permit from their own state based on that state’s laws. 

As I said before, the Anomalous Open Carry States are a bit tricky to remember everything. 

 

What Are Non-Permissive Open Carry States

Non-Permissive Open Carry States are the most restrictive states for Open Carry. 

These states do not allow Open Carry or it is only legal in very limited circumstances.

Some of the circumstances might be while hunting, or if a line of work has been identified by the state as an exception by regulation, like police or armed security. 

States like New York and the District of Columbia are Non-Permissive Open Carry States and have strict enforcement of these laws. 

 

What is Concealed Carry?

Concealed Carry is the act of carrying a firearm, usually a handgun, into a public area when the firearm is not visible to the public. 

All 50 states allow Concealed Carry in some form and are generally broken down into three categories but the terms are often used interchangeably by mistake. There are differences.

 

Constitutional Carry

Permitless Carry

Unrestricted Carry

 

What is Constitutional Carry

Constitutional Carry means that no state law prohibits a lawful citizen from possessing or carrying a firearm, Open Carry or Concealed Carry, therefore no state license or permit is required. 

In some cases, Constitutional Carry is conditional. For example, some states allow Open Carry for all residents but require a permit for Concealed Carry. 

 

What is Permitless Carry

This is a variation on Constitutional Carry laws. Permitless Carry means that no state law prohibits a lawful citizen from possessing or carrying a firearm as long as they meet other qualifications. 

For example, in Tennessee, if you have a DUI in the last 10 years, you must apply for, and obtain, a permit from the sheriff in the county where you live before you can legally carry a firearm. 

 

Open Carry vs Concealed Carry

Earlier we discussed the difference between Open Carry and Concealed Carry separately, but I think it is important that we bring them back together for a few quick additions.

As we have learned, Open Carry is when we are wearing a firearm, typically a handgun, and the general public can clearly see it. 

Concealed Carry is when we are wearing a firearm, typically a handgun, and the general public cannot see it. 

However, what happens when the general public can barely see the firearm? Or, what happens if it is partially covered by an article of clothing?

After asking this question to several professionals, including two attorneys, several law enforcement officers and even a judge, this is the final take away. 

Err on the side of caution. 

Let me give you some real life examples for Open Carry.

 

Examples of Open Carry

Your intent is to Open Carry. You are dressed in properly fitting clothes, your firearm is in a waist holster and clearly visible to the general public. You bend at the knees to put air in your tire and the firearm is no longer visible to the general public.

Answer: You are still legally in Open Carry.

Your intent is to Open Carry. You are dressed in properly fitting clothes, your firearm is in a waist holster and clearly visible to the general public. You leave the grocery store with two paper bags of groceries, one in each hand, held in front of your chest. People behind you can see the firearm. People in front of you can not see the firearm.

 

Answer: You are still legally in Open Carry

Your intent is to Open Carry. You are dressed in properly fitting clothes, your firearm is in a waist holster and clearly visible to the general public. The temperature drops and you put on a jacket which covers the firearm. The firearm is no longer visible to the general public.

 

Answer: You are no longer in Open Carry. You are in Concealed Carry. 

Your intent is to Open Carry. You are dressed in properly fitting clothes, your firearm is in a waist holster and clearly visible to the general public. The temperature drops, you put on a jacket and tuck the jacket between your body and the firearm. The firearm is visible to the general public.

 

Answer: You are still legally in Open Carry

 

Examples of Concealed Carry

Your intent is to Conceal Carry. You are dressed in properly fitting clothes, your firearm is in a waist holster, covered by a closed jacket and not visible to the general public. You raise your arms to reach an object above your head temporarily exposing the firearm to the general public for a few seconds.

Answer: You are still legally in Concealed Carry. Even in a state which does not allow Open Carry, accidental exposure is not likely going to land you with legal troubles. However, remember, if your intent is to carry concealed, you should plan accordingly. Dress around the weapon. Reach with your nondominant hand. The idea is that no one should ever know you are carrying a firearm from the minute you leave home until the minute you arrive back safely. 

Your intent is to Conceal Carry. You are dressed in properly fitting clothes, your firearm is in a waist holster, covered by a closed jacket and not visible to the general public. You take off your jacket as you begin to change a tire in a parking lot. 

Answer: You are no longer in Concealed Carry. You are in Open Carry. 

 

Permitless Concealed Carry State List

Every State has slightly different laws and limitations to carry a firearm. The following states allow Permitless Concealed Carry with the minimum age requirement.

 

 

Permits Required For Concealed Carry State List

Every State has slightly different laws and limitations to carry a concealed firearm. The following states require a permit or license for Concealed Carry with the minimum age requirement of 18 or 21.

 

 

Concealed Carry Reciprocity State List 2022

Each State decides its own laws regarding firearms and any additional regulations it wants to impose upon its citizens beyond existing Federal laws.

Reciprocity simply means that one state will accept the rules of another state. 

For example, if you live in Alabama, Colorado will accept your Alabama Concealed Carry Permit if you were to travel to Colorado. 

 

States With No Concealed Carry Reciprocity

California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York will not honor concealed carry permits from any other U.S. state. 

 

Concealed Carry Reciprocity For All 50 States

 

Many states are moving toward a “Right to Carry” standard as depicted here.

Right to Carry Timeline | 1986-2022 |Armed American News

The states that honor all U.S.-issued concealed carry permits are:

 

 

Concealed Carry Reciprocity by State for 2022

 

Alabama

Alabama honors all out of state concealed carry permits; any person who has a concealed carry permit in another U.S. state can legally carry a firearm in Alabama and are subject to Alabama gun laws while in the state. 32 states honor Alabama’s concealed carry permits: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming Of those states with reciprocity with Alabama, all require that the person carrying must be at least 21 except for Indiana, Montana, and North Dakota.

 

Alaska

Alaska honors all out-of-state concealed carry permits as long as the holder is 21 or over, including those from D.C., New York City, Guam, Puerto Rice, and the Virgin Islands. Any person in Alaska who is legally allowed to carry a firearm is allowed to carry it concealed without a permit. Alaska has reciprocity with 38 states: Alabama, Arizona (21+), Arkansas (21+), Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas (21+), Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine (21+), Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri (19+), Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire (18+), New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma (21+), Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota (21+), Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont (21+), Virginia, West Virginia (21+), Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Arizona

Arizona honors all other states’ concealed carry permits as long as the person is 21 or older. 37 states honor Arizona’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Arkansas

Arkansas honors all other states’ concealed carry permits, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, as long as the person is 21 or older. 37 states honor Arkansas’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

California

California does not honor any other state’s concealed carry permits. 24 states honor a California concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin (21+)

 

Colorado

Under state law, another state must honor Colorado’s concealed carry permit before Colorado will honor the other state’s permit. Colorado does not honor any out-of-state non-resident permits; therefore, in order for Colorado to honor a permit from out-of-state, it must be a resident permit from a state that honors Colorado’s permit, and the person must be at least 21 years old.34 states honor Colorado’s concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Connecticut

Connecticut does not honor any other state’s concealed carry permits. 24 states honor a Connecticut concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (residents only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin

 

Delaware

Delaware concealed carry permits are honored in 28 states. Delaware has reciprocity with 20 states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Idaho (Enhanced permits only), Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota (Class 1 permits only), Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota (Enhanced permits only), Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia

 

District of Columbia

The District of Columbia does not have any reciprocity agreements with other states and will not honor any other state’s concealed carry license. A person can use another state’s concealed carry license to obtain a non-residential pistol license in D.C. 21 states will honor a D.C. pistol license: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia

 

Florida

Florida accepts licenses from other states only if that state honors a Florida concealed carry license. The person carrying must also be 21 or older and must have a residential permit. Florida currently has reciprocity agreements with 36 states: Alabama (handguns only), Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (handguns only and resident only), Delaware, Georgia (handguns only), Idaho, Indiana (handguns only), Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (handguns only), Maine, Michigan (handguns only and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (handguns only), Nevada (handguns only), New Hampshire, New Mexico (handguns only), North Carolina (handguns only), North Dakota, Ohio (handguns only), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (handguns only and resident only), South Carolina (handguns only and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (handguns only), Texas (handguns only), Utah, Vermont, Virginia (handguns only), West Virginia, Wisconsin (only non-resident permits that have been issued or renewed after 8/1/2013) Wyoming (handguns only)

 

Georgia

Georgia honors resident and non-resident concealed carry permits as long as the person carrying is 21 (or 18 if in the military). Georgia has concealed carry reciprocity with 33 states. 33 states honor Georgia’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Carolina (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Hawaii

Hawaii does not honor any state’s concealed carry permits; therefore, it does not have reciprocity with any state. 26 states honor permits from Hawaii: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin

 

Idaho

Idaho honors all other states’ concealed carry permits. Idaho’s concealed carry reciprocity is a little more complex than most states. 25 states have reciprocity with Idaho: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wyoming. Idaho has restricted reciprocity (Enhanced permits or resident permits only) with 14 states: Colorado (resident), Delaware (Enhanced), Florida (resident), Louisiana (Enhanced), Michigan (resident), Minnesota (Enhanced), Pennsylvania (Enhanced and resident), South Carolina (Enhanced and resident), Virginia (Enhanced), Washington (Enhanced), Wisconsin (Enhanced)

 

Illinois

Illinois does not honor concealed carry permits from other states. Illinois will issue non-resident concealed carry permits to residents of Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, Virginia. 26 states honor an Illinois concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin

 

Indiana

Indiana honors all states’ concealed carry permits, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands and except for Vermont. 32 states honor an Indiana concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+), Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (21+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia (21+), West Virginia, Wisconsin (21+), Wyoming (21+)

 

Iowa

Iowa recognizes permits from all states and jurisdictions, including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 33 states honor an Iowa concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (non-Professional permit only), New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Kansas

Kansas recognizes permits from all states and jurisdictions, including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, as long as the person carrying is 21 or older. 37 states honor a Kansas concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Kentucky

Kentucky honors all other states’ concealed carry permits, including non-resident licenses, as long as the person carrying is 21 or over. 37 states honor concealed carry permits from Kentucky: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Louisiana

Louisiana honors concealed carry permits from states that honor Louisiana permits. The person carrying must be at least 21 years old. 38 states honor Louisiana’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Florida (handguns only, resident only), Georgia, Idaho (Enhanced permit only), Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin (only permits issued or renewed on or after 03/09/2015), Wyoming

 

Maine

Maine honors concealed carry permits from 27 states. Maine has permitless carry for any person at least 21 who can legally possess a firearm. If carrying with a permit or license that Maine honors, the person must be 18 or older. 25 states honor a Maine concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wyoming. In all of the states above, the person carrying must be 21 or older except in Alabama, Delaware, Indiana, and North Dakota.

 

Maryland

Maryland does not honor any other states’ concealed carry permits. 23 states honor Maryland concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin

 

Massachusetts

Massachusetts does not honor any other states’ concealed carry permits. 24 states honor Massachusetts concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin

 

Michigan

All concealed carry permits from other states are honored in Michigan except for non-resident permits. Michigan only honors resident permits, and the person cannot remain in Michigan for more than 180 days. 39 states honor a concealed carry permit from Michigan: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Minnesota

Minnesota honors 15 states’ concealed carry permits. 30 states honor Minnesota’s concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only) Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin

 

Mississippi

Mississippi is a constitutional carry state, allowing for carrying without a permit. All states’ concealed carry permits are honored in Mississippi. 34 states honor Mississippi concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Missouri, Montana, Nevada (Enhanced only), New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Carolina (Enhanced only, 21+, and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Missouri

Missouri is a constitutional carry state, allowing for carrying without a permit. All states’ concealed carry permits are honored in Missouri. Six states have written reciprocity agreements with Missouri: Texas, South Dakota, Mississippi, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire. 30 states honor a Missouri concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+), Delaware, Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia, Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa (21+), Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (21+), New Hampshire, New Mexico (21+), North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Carolina (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (21+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia (21+), West Virginia, Wisconsin (only permits issued or renewed on or after 8/28/2013 and 21+), Wyoming (21+)

 

Montana

Montana honors 44 states’ concealed carry permits. It does not honor permits from Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. 31 states honor Montana concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+), Florida (21+), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa (21+), Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Michigan (21+), Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska (21+), Nevada (21+), North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+), South Dakota, Tennessee (21+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia (21+), Wisconsin (21+), Wyoming (21+)

 

Nebraska

Nebraska honors 38 states’ concealed carry permits. Nebraska honors the following states with restrictions: Florida (handguns only), Idaho (Enhanced only), Iowa (non-professional only), Maine (21+), Missouri (21+), Montana (21+), North Dakota (Class 1 permits only), South Dakota (Enhanced permits only), Tennessee (Enhanced permits only and 21+), Utah (21+), West Virginia (CHLs only). 32 states honor Nebraska’s concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Nevada

Nevada honors states that have signed a reciprocity agreement with the state. 31 states have reciprocity with Nevada: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho (Enhanced only), Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi (Enhanced only), Montana (21+), Nebraska, New Mexico (21+), North Carolina, North Dakota (Enhanced only and 21+), Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota (Enhanced only), Tennessee (21+), Texas, Utah (21+), Virginia, West Virginia (21+), Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

New Hampshire

New Hampshire has permitless carry, allowing anyone at least 18 years old to legally carry a firearm on his or her person without a license or permit. 29 states honor New Hampshire’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa (21+), Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia (21+), West Virginia, Wyoming (21+)

 

New Jersey

New Jersey does not honor concealed carry permits from other states. New Jersey is a “may issue” state that issues permits to both residents and non-residents. 24 states honor New Jersey concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia

 

New Mexico

New Mexico honors 24 states’ concealed carry permits. 35 states honor New Mexico’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware (21+), Florida (handguns only), Idaho (Enhanced only), Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri (21+), Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota (Class 1 only and 21+), Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia (21+), Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

New York

New York does not honor any other states’ concealed carry permits. The only exception is pistol licenses from New York City, which are valid statewide. 23 states honor a New York concealed carry permit: Alabama (NYC permits not recognized), Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin

 

North Carolina

North Carolina honors every state’s concealed carry permit, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 38 states honor North Carolina’s concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

North Dakota

North Dakota honors 38 states’ concealed carry permits. North Dakota has resident and non-resident permits, as well as Class 1 and Class 2 permits, which require a written test. 39 state honor North Dakota’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Delaware (Class 1 only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia, Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa (21+), Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Minnesota (Class 1 only and 21+), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (Class 1 only), Nevada (21+), New Hampshire, New Mexico (Class 1 only and 21+), North Carolina (21+), Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (Class 1 only, 21+, and resident only), South Carolina (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (Class 1 only and 21+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia (Class 1 only), Washington (Class 1 only), West Virginia, Wisconsin (Class 1 only and 21+), Wyoming (21+)

 

Ohio

Ohio will automatically honor a valid concealed carry permit from any other state in the U.S., including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 38 states honor Ohio’s concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas (must be issued or renewed on or after 03/23/2015), Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin (must be issued or renewed on or after 03/23/2015), Wyoming

 

Oklahoma

All valid weapons licenses issued by another state are honored in Oklahoma. If a person is from a permitless carry state, Oklahoma will reciprocate under that state’s laws. All persons carrying must be at least 21. 37 states honor Oklahoma’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Delaware, Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Carolina (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin (must be issued/renewed on or after 10/1/2018), Wyoming

 

Oregon

Oregon does not honor concealed carry permits from other states. 23 states honor Oregon concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia

 

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania honors permits from 28 states. The state honors only resident permits from Arizona, Florida, Mississippi, Utah, and Virginia and only Class 1 permits only from North Dakota. 31 states honor Pennsylvania concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not honor permits or licenses from other states. 23 states honor a Rhode Island concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas (must be issued by R.I. Attorney General), Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin

 

South Carolina

South Carolina will only honor residential permits from other states, and the state must be on South Carolina’s reciprocity list. There are 23 states on this list. Additionally, the minimum age is 21. 33 states honor South Carolina’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan (resident only), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

South Dakota

South Dakota honors permits from all other states, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 36 states honor South Dakota’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Delaware (Enhanced only), Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa (21+), Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Minnesota (21+ and Enhanced only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (Enhanced only), Nevada (21+ and Enhanced only), North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), Tennessee (21+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont, Virginia (21+), Washington (Enhanced only), West Virginia, Wisconsin (Enhanced and Gold only), Wyoming (21+)

 

Tennessee

Tennessee honors permits from all other states, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 38 states honor Tennessee’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Delaware, Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (21+ and Enhanced only), Nevada (21+ and not retired law enforcement lifetime), New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota (Enhanced only), Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Texas

Texas honors concealed carry permits from 44 states. For Rhode Island, only permits issued by the Attorney General are honored, and for Ohio, only permits issued or renewed after 03/23/2015 will be honored. 36 states honors concealed carry permits from Texas: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

 

Utah

Utah honors permits from all other states, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. 36 states honor Utah’s concealed carry licenses: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Delaware, Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa (21+), Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Maine, Michigan (21+ and resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (21+), Nevada (21+), New Hampshire, North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (21+), Texas (21+), Vermont, Virginia (21+), Washington (regular (not provisional) permits only), West Virginia, Wisconsin (21+), Wyoming (21+)

 

Vermont

Vermont does not issue permits for carrying firearms and operates on an “Unrestricted” policy. Vermont honors permits from all other states, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

 

Virginia

Virginia honors permits from all other states, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

36 states honor Virginia’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Florida (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin (non-resident only), Wyoming

 

Washington

In order for Washington to honor another state’s concealed carry permits, the state must honor Washington’s permit, must not issue CPL licenses to a person under 21, and must have fingerprint-based checks for background and mental health history. Only nine states meet these requirements: Idaho (Enhanced only), Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, North Carolina, North Dakota (Class 1 only), Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota (Enhanced only), Utah (regular (not provisional) permits only)

25 states honor Washington’s concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin

 

West Virginia

West Virginia honors every other states’ concealed carry permits. 37 states honor West Virginia’s concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+ and resident only), Delaware, Florida (21+ and resident only), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+), Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana (21+), Michigan (21+ and resident only), Minnesota (21+), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska (CHLs only), Nevada (21+), New Hampshire, New Mexico (21+), North Carolina (21+), North Dakota, Ohio (21+), Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+ and resident only), South Carolina (21+ and resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee (21+), Texas (21+), Utah, Vermont, Virginia (21+), Wisconsin (21+), Wyoming (21+)

 

Wisconsin

Wisconsin honors 45 states’ concealed carry permits and all non-resident permits as long as the permit holder is 21 or older. 29 states honor Wisconsin concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (resident only), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan (resident only), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (resident only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wyoming

 

Wyoming

Wyoming honors concealed carry permits from 35 states. 36 states honor Wyoming concealed carry permits: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado (21+), Florida (21+), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (21+), Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania (21+), South Carolina (21+), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin

 

 

Citations and Sources:

2022 World Population by Country, https://worldpopulationreview.com/

United States Concealed Carry Association, https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/

Constitutional Carry, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitutional_carry

The Constitution of The United States of America, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CDOC-110hdoc50/pdf/CDOC-110hdoc50.pdf

Second Amendment Foundation, https://www.saf.org/

 

Contributors: Lee Williams,  Patch Baker, Jeff Dege, 

 

Armed American News is a trusted source for the latest news on the Second Amendment. State and local laws change frequently and may not be covered in any article on this site.

 

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