What Is Constitutional Carry?

USCCA - 05/11/2019




When it comes to concealed carry, states have different laws about what permits, if any, are required before an individual can conceal and carry a firearm. Some states may have what is known as “constitutional carry.” Also called “unrestricted” or “permitless” carry, constitutional carry means that a permit is not required to carry a concealed firearm.

Some states have laws explicitly written. Others may merely imply constitutional carry; there are no laws against concealed carrying without a permit.

There is, of course, variety when it comes to these laws. Some states are fully unrestricted, while other states are partially unrestricted. And some other states always require a permit.

To learn which states have constitutional carry, be sure to take a look at the USCCA’s Terminology Guide. We provide information not only about constitutional carry but also many other important firearms and self-defense terms.