Carry laws, state by state.
Know the law before you carry. Permit type, open carry, minimum age, restricted locations, and self-defense law — one overview for every state plus D.C.
No states match that filter.
Constitutional Carry
No permit required to carry for eligible adults. Many of these states still issue optional permits for reciprocity.
Shall-Issue
A permit is required, and the state must issue one to applicants who meet the legal criteria.
May-Issue
A permit is required, and issuing authorities have discretion over who receives one.
Federal law always applies.
Regardless of state law, carrying is prohibited in federal buildings, post offices, military installations, and past airport security. These pages are informational overviews, not legal advice — laws change frequently, so verify with official state sources or a qualified attorney before you carry.