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Virginia Gun Laws: What You Need to Know

USCCA — March 25, 2019As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on your state’s gun laws…

Virginia residents, you’re in luck. We’ve accumulated some of the most frequently asked questions about Virginia gun laws and are now bringing you the answers! (Not from Virginia? Don’t worry, your state is coming soon…)

Can You Have a Gun in Your Car in Virginia?

Yes, with a permit. Carry in a vehicle is allowed without a permit if it is secured in a container or compartment. This can mean a console, glove compartment or any other area of the vehicle that has the ability to be closed.

Does Virginia Have a Castle Law?

Virginia is a Castle Doctrine state. There is no duty to retreat, and you can defend yourself anywhere you are legally allowed to be. Deadly force can only be used, however, if you or another person are under immediate threat of being killed or seriously injured.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Virginia?

The mandated processing time for a resident Virginia Handgun Permit (VHP) is 45 days from acceptance of your application. Processing a non-resident concealed handgun permit can take between three and six months. Permits are valid for five years and cost $50, and a training course is required.

Can You Open Carry in a Mall in Virginia?

Open carry is legal in Virginia in most places with or without a concealed handgun permit for anyone who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm. However, since shopping malls are private property, they may post to prohibit firearms.

What Are the Rules for Concealed Carry in Virginia?

Concealed carry is legal with a VHP or a permit from a state that Virginia honors. Permits are issued to both residents and non-residents who are at least 21 years old and require a firearms training course that has been approved by the state. Some areas are off-limits, including airport terminals and places of worship during services.

Can You Open Carry in Virginia?

Open carry is legal in Virginia without a permit. The minimum age is 18 years old.

Can You Carry a Gun in Virginia State Parks?

Yes, you can carry a gun in Virginia state parks, provided you have a Virginia Handgun Permit or a concealed carry permit from a state that Virginia honors.

Ready to Learn More About Virginia Gun Laws?

It’s your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA's Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map is the ultimate tool for armed citizens like you to stay informed. To learn more about Virginia’s permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit Virginia's gun laws page now...



The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. Members and the concealed carry community and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and, as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.

senor honda

Trouble in Pittsburgh...
BY TIM SCHMIDT - USCCA FOUNDER





According to ABC News, "The Pittsburgh City Council gave final approval Tuesday to gun restrictions proposed after last year's synagogue massacre, inviting a legal challenge by gun-rights activists who have long tangled with the city over firearms. After taking an initial vote last week, the all-Democrat council voted 6-3 to send the legislation to the desk of Democratic Mayor Bill Peduto, who is expected to sign the bills into law."

The legislation in question places "restrictions on military-style assault weapons like the AR-15 rifle that authorities say was used in the Oct. 27 rampage at Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill, which killed 11 and wounded seven. It also bans most uses of armor-piercing ammunition and high-capacity magazines, and allows the temporary seizure of guns from people who are determined to be a danger to themselves or others," CBS Pittsburgh reports.

The city of Pittsburgh failed to enforce an assault-weapons ban back in 1993 before the Supreme Court "ruled that city officials had overstepped," and ABC News says that current Pennsylvania state law "forbids municipalities from regulating guns."

So although anti-gunners, including one woman donning a Moms Demand Action T-shirt, lauded the "bold actions" of the council members, pro-gun advocates plan to "sue to block the laws from taking effect" and "file private criminal complaints against [the] council and Peduto over allegations of abuse of office and official repression," according to ABC News.

But TIME reported that Peduto quickly shot back at gun-rights advocates on Twitter, posting: "Arrest me. Sue me. Impeach me. I was elected to protect my constituents, and that is exactly what I will do."

As you know, the USCCA is set to hold its 5th Annual Concealed Carry Expo in Pittsburgh from May 17 to 19, and we've been following this particular story for several months now. We have publicly invited the entire city council and Mayor Peduto to attend our event. It is our hope that they will see and learn what it means to be a responsibly armed American and to meet the citizens whose rights they are infringing upon and whose lives they are impacting.

What they might not realize is that we ALL share a common goal of wanting to prevent future tragedies. But instead of passing laws that make us less safe by infringing upon law-abiding Americans' Second Amendment rights, government at all levels should be focusing on empowering responsibly armed Americans to defend themselves and others from those who wish to attack innocent human life.

In the wake of recent events, the USCCA has also donated to the Allegheny County Sportsmen's League (ACSL)/Firearms Owners Against Crime (FOAC) Pittsburgh Litigation Fund. I'd like to encourage you to do the same.

Klint Macro, a friend of the USCCA and one of our top training counselors, is working closely with both organizations in an effort to defend the Second Amendment and the people of Pittsburgh. Here's what he had to say:

"Fight it will be, as the city is well-funded with taxpayer dollars and outside money and influence. The [USCCA's] donation to our cause is very appreciated, and we will put it to good use. Informing folks across the country about what is happening here in Pittsburgh is very important, as I believe this is the test case on how to defeat preemption across the nation. Let folks in other towns and states know that this must be fought and won here so that this kind of abuse does not spread across the nation. The illegal ordinances must not only be stopped, but the [Pittsburgh] city council and mayor must also be held accountable for knowingly and willfully breaking the law and assaulting the rights and liberties of law-abiding citizens."

You can help lawful gun owners in Pittsburgh by donating here.

Klint says, "Please include explicit directions for donors to enter 'ACSL/FOAC Pittsburgh Litigation Fund' in the 'Reference' field when they donate. Also, can [you] stress the importance of donating to ACSL and FOAC as opposed to other 'national' organizations that may solicit donations? We need to keep the funding here in Pennsylvania to have the most impact."

As a fellow responsibly armed American, I urge you to do two things:

1. Donate to the ACSL/FOAC Pittsburgh Litigation Fund. Together, we can make a difference!
2. Join us at the USCCA Expo May 17 to 19, 2019. Let's show the city of Pittsburgh that law-abiding citizens actually make our communities safer.

As Mary Konieczny, a nurse who addressed the council, so perfectly stated, this legislation is "a distraction and an overreach of authority." I couldn't agree more with her argument that the move is an attempt "to fearmonger people" into believing that "by taking guns away from legal gun owners, people will be safe."

Take Care and Stay Safe,









Tim Schmidt
Publisher - Concealed Carry Report
USCCA Founder

senor honda

You should have investigated better before deciding to go where the officials don't support you.
Don't spend your money with people who want you oiut of business.
------------------------------------------

As you know, the USCCA is set to hold its 5th Annual Concealed Carry Expo in Pittsburgh from May 17 to 19, and we've been following this particular story for several months now. We have publicly invited the entire city council and Mayor Peduto to attend our event. It is our hope that they will see and learn what it means to be a responsibly armed American and to meet the citizens whose rights they are infringing upon and whose lives they are impacting.

senor honda

Georgia Gun Laws: What You Should Know

USCCA — April 8, 2019As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on gun laws…

Georgia gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in Georgia. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Georgia gun laws. (Not from Georgia? Don’t worry, your state is coming soon…)

Can You Have a Loaded Gun in Your Car in Georgia?

Yes, any person who is not prohibited by law from possessing a handgun or long gun may have or carry it in his or her vehicle (owned or rented by that individual). In a vehicle you do not own, you must have the permission of the person who has legal control of the vehicle.

Can You Drink and Carry a Gun in Georgia?

Per GA Code § 16-11-134, you may not discharge a firearm while under the influence. You may carry with a valid permit in restaurants that serve alcohol, unless posted.

As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.

Is Georgia a Stand Your Ground State?

Yes. Per Georgia Code § 16-3-21, a person has no duty to retreat and is justified in threatening or using force against another. This is only when the person reasonably believes such threat or force is necessary to defend himself or herself or a third person against another's imminent use of unlawful force or to prevent death or great bodily injury. Force may also be used to prevent the commission of a forcible felony, such as rape, armed robbery or kidnapping.

Is Georgia an Open Carry State?

No, you must have a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL) or a license from a state that Georgia honors. The minimum age to obtain a WCL is 21, and no training is required.

Is It Legal to Keep a Gun in Your Glove Box in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia allows anyone who is not prohibited from possessing firearms to have or carry a gun on his or her person inside a vehicle.

Is There a Castle Law in Georgia?

Yes, a person is justified in threatening or using force against another when he or she reasonably believes that such threat is necessary to prevent or stop an unlawful entry into or attack upon a home. The use of deadly force is only justified if the entry is attempted or made for the purpose of assault or violence against any person in the house.

Can You Carry a Gun Into a Bar in Georgia?

Yes, a person with a Georgia Weapons Carry License or a license from a state that Georgia honors may carry a concealed firearm in any location that is not off-limits, per Georgia Code Ann. § 16-11-127(b).

As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.

Ready to Learn More About Georgia Gun Laws?

It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA's Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map has been designed to help inform and educate armed citizens like you. To learn more about Georgia’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and CCW training requirements, visit the Georgia gun laws page now...



The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each particular case, and laws are constantly changing; as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.

senor honda

Gun Law News: April 7, 2019

USCCA — April 7, 2019

Arkansas…

• Arkansas Times: Senate Endorses ‘Constitutional Carry’

The Arkansas Senate voted — without legal meaning — 24-5 in support of a resolution "clarifying" that Arkansas is "a constitutional carry state, with no permit required to carry a handgun, either unconcealed or concealed," on March 26. The resolution by Sen. Scott Flippo rests on a Court of Appeals case that a police stop couldn't be justified by the suspect's possession of a weapon. The Arkansas Supreme Court hasn't definitively addressed the question. Despite the permitting process for both conventional concealed carry and enhanced permits, the Senate resolution effectively says no permit is necessary to concealed carry.

Florida…

• WJHG-TV (NBC-Panama City, FL): School, Safety Leaders Respond to Possible Expansion of Guardian Program

Safety and security have been at the forefront of school leaders' minds for years. According to Bill Husfelt, superintendent of Bay District Schools, new legislation could expand Florida’s guardian program. The Coach Aaron Feis Guardian Program, named after one of the victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting, currently allows school faculty to concealed carry. This potential expansion could widen the candidate pool, which already includes Bay District and more than 20 other districts. This legislation would allow teachers serving only in classrooms to apply as well. Mike Jones, Chief of Safety and Security for Bay District Schools, said the Bay County Sheriff's Office has helped train the guardians. "It's a chance to put more armed people on our campuses to combat these guys, these villains that are coming," Jones said.

Idaho…

• Idaho State Journal: Legislature OKs Concealed Carry for 18-Year-Olds

Idaho’s Senate voted along party lines to pass a bill allowing 18- to 20-year-olds to concealed carry without a permit. The bill, passed by both the House and the Senate, is headed to Gov. Brad Little’s desk to become law. “What we’re talking about is extending to 18- to 20-year-olds the same fundamental and constitutional right to self-defense as all other adults,” Sen. Steve Vick (R-Dalton Gardens), who sponsored the bill, said. According to Vick, the bill brings uniformity to Idaho’s gun laws across the state, in both cities and counties. Current law says that those 18 to 20 years old can carry a firearm without a permit anywhere in the state, including in city limits, so long as it’s not concealed. To carry concealed within Idaho cities, those under 21 need a permit, which includes a training requirement. “Sometimes in life, people are threatened, and they feel that their lives are in danger, and they want to carry a handgun to defend themselves from that danger,” Vick said.

Iowa…

• KTIV (NBC-Sioux City, IA): Iowa Lawmakers Considering a Concealed Carry Measure

Iowa State lawmakers are considering a bill which would allow people with concealed carry permits to bring their guns onto school grounds, business parking lots and into Iowa courthouses. Firearms could still be prohibited in school buildings if it becomes law, but licensed carriers would no longer have to unload their weapon[s] and secure [them] in [a] trunk for school drop-offs or pick-ups. It would also prevent employers from prohibiting firearms in employees’ locked personal cars, though they could still ban guns in the workplace. “This is a lot of unnecessary manipulation of a weapon, and for that reason, we call it the family defense act. You should not be deprived of the ability to defend yourself, your family and others in the area just because of an arbitrary boundary,” said Richard Rogers, Iowa Firearms Coalition. The bill is out of committee and on its way to the House floor for debate.

Kansas…

• The Associated Press: House Passes Bill Dropping Concealed Carry Age To 18

A bill passed the House March 27, allowing people as young as 18 to carry concealed weapons. The 83-41 vote sends the bill to the Senate for approval. While opponents argued that the measure could endanger lives, backers say it's about having protection when the unexpected happens, The Wichita Eagle reports. "We're not training people to go into combat and to kill people," said Rep. Stephen Owens (R-Hesston). "We are training people for self-defense." Currently, for residents 21 and older, Kansas has constitutional carry, or the right to carry a firearm in any capacity. A concealed carry license, available to those who complete required training, allows the holder to carry in states that have reciprocal agreements. The age to obtain a permit would drop to 18 under the new law. Residents who don't receive a license at 18 would still be allowed constitutional carry in the state at age 21.

Ohio…

• The Columbus Dispatch: Settlement Allows Concealed Carry Gun Storage in Cars on Ohio State Campus

A lawsuit filed more than two years ago by two gun-rights groups and Mike Newbern, an Ohio State University Marion student and instructor, has settled. Newbern and the groups charged that Ohio State policies prohibiting storage of guns in vehicles went against state law. The settlement resulted in a change in the university’s policies to allow students with concealed carry permits to store firearms in their vehicles on campus. In December 2016, the General Assembly passed, and Gov. John Kasich signed, a law lifting a longstanding statewide ban on carrying concealed guns at colleges, day care centers and airports but left it up to universities whether to actually allow them. “We’re happy that Ohio State has changed the student code of conduct so that vetted, trained, licensed students will be able to store their lawfully possessed firearms in their cars parked on campus,” Newbern said in a news release.

• The Columbus Dispatch: Bill Would Allow Ohioans to Carry Concealed Weapons Without Permit

Gov. Mike DeWine supports a measure being pushed by almost half of Ohio House Republicans. The bill seeks to allow all law-abiding Ohioans to concealed carry without obtaining a permit. The so-called “constitutional carry” bill would permit anyone age 21 and older, not disqualified by federal law, to carry a hidden gun — without obtaining a concealed carry permit. Meanwhile, about 70 gun advocates — largely from Ohio militia groups — milled about the plaza west of the Statehouse March 28, carrying rifles and handguns in a show of appreciation. The advocates showed support for Ohio lawmakers passing legislation, signed by DeWine, to correct a flaw in a bill that could have classified many long guns as prohibited “dangerous ordnance.” The previously scheduled event was not connected to the bill introduced Wednesday.

Oregon…

• Statesman Journal: ‘Defend The 2nd Rally’ Brings Thousands to Oregon State Capitol

Roughly 2,000 people were in attendance at the start of the Defend the 2nd Rally at the Oregon State Capitol, March 23. One of the people defending his right to protect himself was Tim Lesmeister, who shared the story of the day he survived a mass shooting. Lesmeister said he will never forget May 7, 1981, when a gunman killed four and wounded 20 at the Oregon Museum Tavern in Salem. He can still remember every detail. The feeling of not being able to protect themselves is something no one can understand unless they have been through it and is one of the reasons he carries today. "I wish I would have had a concealed carry at that time," said Lesmeister, 62. "Maybe I could have helped prevent deaths, maybe not. I don’t know."

Stay up to date with ever-changing gun laws by visiting the USCCA Concealed Carry Reciprocity and Gun Laws by State Map!

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Your Right to Silence vs. Your Right to an Attorney

USCCA — April 6, 2019

Summary

In this week’s “Ask a Self-Defense Attorney” video, Attorney Tom Grieve discusses the difference between raising your right to silence and raising your right to an attorney. These are two very distinct things, and knowing the intricacies of each can affect the outcome of your case.

What Is Your Right to Silence? What Is Your Right to an Attorney?

We have all heard it on TV: “You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to an attorney…” But for many responsibly armed Americans, there remain questions about what those rights actually mean.

As a pro-Second Amendment attorney, Tom often gets asked about our rights as responsibly armed Americans. This is especially important when it comes to your interactions with the police after a self-defense incident. Tom addresses that topic in this week’s video and informs you on to how to raise those rights.

Tom will also discuss the surprising ways in which your right to silence can be used against you, according to recent U.S. Supreme Court law.

About Attorney Tom Grieve, Grieve Law

Tom Grieve is a highly awarded former state prosecutor who started Grieve Law, LLC, now one of the largest criminal defense firms in Wisconsin. He is respected as one of the top criminal defense lawyers in the state and has developed a nuanced understanding of Wisconsin firearms laws throughout his years of experience. Although Tom’s legal background speaks for itself, he has gone above and beyond, receiving his certification as a firearms instructor; participating as a regular speaker and panelist with the USCCA for live broadcasts, training videos and national expos; and even serving as a speaker and analyst on numerous radio stations, television stations, and both college and law school campuses.

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Concealed Carry News: April 3, 2019

Tim Schmidt — April 3, 2019Friends:

There’s no question that we are all deeply saddened and outraged when mass tragedies occur, such as the one at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue this past fall, which claimed the lives of 11 innocent men and women. Too often, it seems, our places of worship are seen as soft targets. Evil maniacs prey on religious worshippers who often can't protect themselves.

As responsible gun owners, we understand that the first line of defense against a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun. In fact, just this past week, a Las Vegas man was able to fend off two armed men from harming a friend and his wife in a jewelry store robbery. Another man in Houston also successfully defended himself against a would-be robber. Stories like this occur all the time. As responsibly armed Americans, we know if there were perhaps just one armed citizen or one armed guard in the Tree of Life Synagogue last October, there might have been a very different outcome.

They Just Don’t Get It

That’s why it’s infuriating to watch politicians who just don’t get it vote to pass more anti-gun laws instead of supporting responsibly armed Americans. We saw that in Pittsburgh recently when anti-gun politicians on the City Council voted to restrict our Second Amendment right to self-defense. This was despite opposition from thousands of responsible gun owners. Even the Allegheny County District Attorney warned them that the measure was unconstitutional. Here’s the reality: Criminals set on harming others don’t care and don’t follow our gun laws. If somebody’s willing to kill, you can bet he or she doesn’t care about gun laws.

The politicians in Pittsburgh may not get it, but we do. If you want to learn more about what you can be doing to better protect yourself, your family and your loved ones, we invite you to join us at the USCCA’s Annual Concealed Carry Expo in Pittsburgh (held at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center) from May 17 to 19. This year’s Expo will offer more than 70 seminars from industry experts, a FREE live-fire shooting range to test new handguns, and a massive selection of gear, services and information from USCCA's trusted industry partners.

You can learn more and buy tickets at USCCAExpo.com.

We’re All In This Together

It’s time we have a serious conversation in this country — not about more laws that clearly don’t work but about what more Americans can be doing to arm and protect themselves. We hope you will join your fellow freedom-loving Americans at the USCCA Expo next month in Pittsburgh.

Quote of the Week

• “Gun owners are law-abiding citizens who follow the rules, and we need to let them be able to protect themselves. That’s what this is all about.” — Ohio State Rep. Tom Brinkman on introducing constitutional carry legislation in the state

Data Point You Should Know

• There are only six states that allow 18-year-olds to constitutional carry.

senor honda

What Are the Top 3 Questions to Ask a Self-Defense Attorney?

USCCA — March 30, 2019

Summary

For this week's “Ask a Self-Defense Attorney” video, former state prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney Tom Grieve discusses what questions you should be asking in your search for an attorney. There are many options when it comes to representation in your self-defense case. Knowing the right questions to ask may be the key to making sure you have the best during the difficult and sometimes lengthy aftermath of a self-defense shooting.

What Should I Ask an Attorney I Am Thinking About Hiring for My Self-Defense Case?

In this week’s video, Tom provides you with the top three questions that you need to ask when considering a criminal defense attorney for a case involving the use of your gun in self-defense.

These questions range from "What is your experience in this area?" to specifics about your case. There are many questions that you should ask a criminal defense attorney before allowing him or her to represent you. This video will reveal the top three.

If you are a USCCA Member, use our USCCA Attorney Network to ease your anxiety about finding the right attorney. You have the freedom to choose your own criminal defense attorney. Or you can use our nationwide network of pro-Second-Amendment attorneys with experience in self-defense cases. You also have access to the USCCA Critical Response Team, which should be your first call after 911. They will be there for you in the aftermath of any self-defense incident.

About Tom Grieve, Grieve Law

Attorney Tom Grieve is one of the most respected criminal defense lawyers in Wisconsin. A highly awarded former prosecutor, he started Grieve Law, LLC, which is one of the top criminal defense firms in the state. He developed a nuanced knowledge of Wisconsin firearms law. Tom has also received his certification as a firearms instructor and participates as a speaker and panelist with the USCCA for live broadcasts, national expos and training videos. He has even served as a speaker and analyst on numerous TV and radio stations as well as college and law school campuses.

senor honda

Ohio Gun Laws: What You Should Know

USCCA — April 1, 2019As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on your state’s gun laws…

Ohio residents, you’re in luck. We’ve accumulated some of your most frequently asked questions about gun laws in Ohio and are now bringing you the answers! (Not from Ohio? Don’t worry, your state is coming soon…)

Can You Have a Loaded Gun in Your Car in Ohio?

Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit. Without a permit, a handgun must be unloaded and either carried in a compartment that can be reached only by leaving the vehicle or in plain sight and secured in a rack or holder made for the purpose.

Can I Shoot an Intruder in Ohio?

Ohio law provides that a person is justified in using force if he or she “reasonably believed that the force was necessary to prevent injury, loss or risk to life or safety.” Ohio adheres to the Castle Doctrine, meaning that you don't have a duty to retreat before using force in your residence or vehicle.

House Bill 228 — Ohio’s Castle Law — went into effect on March 28, 2019, presuming that the homeowner/vehicle owner acted in defense of another or himself/herself when applying deadly force to an intruder. Therefore, if the homeowner is charged, the prosecution would have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused person did not use the force in self-defense, defense of another or defense of that person's residence.

Do You Have to Register Your Gun in Ohio?

No. There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual in Ohio. Anyone 18 years or older can open carry. Concealed carry is legal for residents 21 years and older who have obtained an Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL).

Is Hollow-Point Ammunition Illegal in Ohio?

No. Hollow-point ammunition is legal in Ohio. A hollow-point round has a hole in the tip of the bullet, giving it a hollow center. When it makes contact with the target, the bullet expands like an umbrella to create a larger cavity in the soft tissue. Most law enforcement agencies use hollow-point ammunition, and it is often recommended for concealed carry and home-defense guns.

Is Ohio a "Stand Your Ground" State?

No. Your residence and vehicle are the only places where you have no duty to retreat before using force. You have a duty to retreat in all other locations. Ohio law allows people to use deadly force against another person if they have a reasonable belief, even if mistaken, that the person poses an imminent “danger of death or great bodily harm.”

What Is the Legal Magazine Capacity in Ohio?

Ohio has no laws restricting large-capacity magazines. However, Ohio includes within the definition of “automatic firearm” any semi-automatic firearm designed or specially adapted to fire more than 31 cartridges without reloading, other than a firearm chambering only .22-caliber short, long or long-rifle cartridges.

Can You Carry a Gun in a Church in Ohio?

Per Ohio Rev. Code § 2923.126(B), even individuals with concealed carry permits may not carry a concealed handgun onto the premises of any church, synagogue, mosque or another place of worship, unless the place of worship posts or permits otherwise. Therefore, if not posted on the property or in a bulletin, a permittee would need to inquire with the leadership of the place of worship for permission to carry.

Ready to Learn More About Ohio Gun Laws?

It’s your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA's Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map is the ultimate tool for armed citizens like you to stay informed. To learn more about Ohio’s permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit Ohio's gun laws page now...



The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. Members and the concealed carry community and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing and, as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.

senor honda

Georgia Gun Laws: What You Should Know

USCCA — April 8, 2019As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on gun laws…

Georgia gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in Georgia. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Georgia gun laws. (Not from Georgia? Don’t worry, your state is coming soon…)

Can You Have a Loaded Gun in Your Car in Georgia?

Yes, any person who is not prohibited by law from possessing a handgun or long gun may have or carry it in his or her vehicle (owned or rented by that individual). In a vehicle you do not own, you must have the permission of the person who has legal control of the vehicle.

Can You Drink and Carry a Gun in Georgia?

Per GA Code § 16-11-134, you may not discharge a firearm while under the influence. You may carry with a valid permit in restaurants that serve alcohol, unless posted.

As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.

Is Georgia a Stand Your Ground State?

Yes. Per Georgia Code § 16-3-21, a person has no duty to retreat and is justified in threatening or using force against another. This is only when the person reasonably believes such threat or force is necessary to defend himself or herself or a third person against another's imminent use of unlawful force or to prevent death or great bodily injury. Force may also be used to prevent the commission of a forcible felony, such as rape, armed robbery or kidnapping.

Is Georgia an Open Carry State?

No, you must have a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL) or a license from a state that Georgia honors. The minimum age to obtain a WCL is 21, and no training is required.

Is It Legal to Keep a Gun in Your Glove Box in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia allows anyone who is not prohibited from possessing firearms to have or carry a gun on his or her person inside a vehicle.

Is There a Castle Law in Georgia?

Yes, a person is justified in threatening or using force against another when he or she reasonably believes that such threat is necessary to prevent or stop an unlawful entry into or attack upon a home. The use of deadly force is only justified if the entry is attempted or made for the purpose of assault or violence against any person in the house.

Can You Carry a Gun Into a Bar in Georgia?

Yes, a person with a Georgia Weapons Carry License or a license from a state that Georgia honors may carry a concealed firearm in any location that is not off-limits, per Georgia Code Ann. § 16-11-127(b).

As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.

Ready to Learn More About Georgia Gun Laws?

It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA's Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map has been designed to help inform and educate armed citizens like you. To learn more about Georgia’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and CCW training requirements, visit the Georgia gun laws page now...



The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each particular case, and laws are constantly changing; as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.