| title |
|---|
Pennsylvania Concealed Carry Laws |
Pennsylvania operates as a shall-issue state for concealed weapons licenses, issued at the county level by the sheriff’s office or, for residents of first-class cities, by the city's chief of police.
No permit is required to purchase firearms in Pennsylvania, and while there is no comprehensive firearms registration, the state police maintain a database of handgun buyers. Private-party transfers of handguns must be conducted through a licensed dealer or at a county sheriff’s office, with exemptions for transfers between close family members.
Open carry is legal for individuals aged 18 or older who are legally eligible to possess a firearm. However, a Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms (LCF) or a permit from a reciprocal state is required to open or conceal carry in a vehicle and to open carry in Philadelphia. Recent legal decisions have brought some uncertainty regarding the definition of open carry in the state.
Residents aged 21 and older, and non-residents with permits recognized by Pennsylvania, can legally carry concealed firearms. Following a recent court ruling, individuals aged 18-20 are also eligible for permits. Pennsylvania does not impose a training requirement for license issuance, and reciprocity for out-of-state licenses is limited to states with formal agreements.
Pennsylvania upholds Castle Doctrine principles and a "stand your ground" law, allowing individuals to use force, including deadly force, in defense against unlawful threats in their home or any place they legally occupy. There is generally no duty to retreat, except in specific circumstances. Deadly force is justified if believed necessary to prevent death, serious injury, kidnapping, or sexual assault, under prescribed conditions detailed in state statutes.
For more detailed and current information, consulting official state resources is advisable.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Pennsylvania?
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Pennsylvania.
Does Pennsylvania have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. The Allegheny Court of Common Pleas decided against the City of Pittsburgh in Anderson v. City of Pittsburgh. The court found that Pittsburgh's attempt to impose local gun control measures was a clear violation of state preemption law.
Does Pennsylvania have ammunition restrictions?
Yes. It is illegal for any person to possess KTW teflon-coated bullets or other armor-piercing ammunition with the intent to use the ammunition in a crime. [18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 6121]
Does Pennsylvania allow constitutional carry?
No. Pennsylvania does not allow constitutional carry.
If Pennsylvania requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?
Pennsylvania is a shall-issue state.
What is the minimum age in Pennsylvania to get a concealed carry license?
The minimum age to concealed carry in Pennsylvania is 21 years old.
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Pennsylvania with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
Yes. Pennsylvania concealed carry includes any pistol or revolver with a barrel length less than 15 inches, any shotgun with a barrel length less than 18 inches or any rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches, or any pistol, revolver, rifle or shotgun with an overall length of less than 26 inches. The barrel length of a firearm shall be determined by measuring from the muzzle of the barrel to the face of the closed action, bolt or cylinder, whichever is applicable.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm. A person may possess and use an electric or electronic incapacitation device in the exercise of reasonable force in defense of the person or the person's property if the electric or electronic incapacitation device is labeled with or accompanied by clearly written instructions as to its use and the damages involved in its use. [18 Pa. Cons. Stat, § 908.1]
Is open carry permitted in Pennsylvania?
Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry. A license is required in a vehicle and in the city of Philadelphia.
Be aware that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision in Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Darren Montgomery, 234 A.3d 523 (PA 2020), holding that sometimes a visible firearm is a concealed firearm, has created uncertainty about the definition of open carry.
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Pennsylvania?
Yes, with a License to Carry Firearms (LCF) or permit from a state with reciprocity. There are exceptions outlined in § 6106(b), allowing certain individuals to carry either loaded or unloaded firearms with ammunition stored separately.
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Pennsylvania?
Yes, with a LCF or permit from a state with reciprocity.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Pennsylvania?
Yes, unless posted, with a LCF or permit from a state with reciprocity.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Pennsylvania?
Yes, with a LCF or permit from a state with reciprocity. [34 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2525 & 58 PA Cons. Stat. § 135.41]
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania statutes do not specifically address firearms at hotels. Please check with the individual hotel for their policy.
Does Pennsylvania have laws regarding storing firearms in private vehicles in employee parking lots?
Not addressed in Pennsylvania state law.
Brandishing?
Does Pennsylvania state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Pennsylvania law. However, a person is guilty of disorderly conduct if, with intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof, he engages in fighting or threatening, or in violent or tumultuous behavior; or creates a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act which serves no legitimate purpose of the actor.
[18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5503]
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?
Does Pennsylvania have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
Not addressed in state statutes.
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.
Non-Resident Permitting?
Does Pennsylvania issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?
Yes. Non-residents who possess a current license or permit or similar document to carry a firearm issued by their home state (if a license is provided for by the laws of that state) may apply for a non-resident permit.
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?
Does Pennsylvania allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No. The Pennsylvania concealed carry registry is not accessible to the public.
Driver's License Linked to Carry License?
Is my Pennsylvania driver’s license linked to my Pennsylvania carry license?
Yes. Your Pennsylvania driver’s license is linked to your Pennsylvania license to carry firearms. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.
Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?
Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Pennsylvania?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Pennsylvania unless the officer asks.
[18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6122]
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?
Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania does not recognize "No Weapons" signs.
Preemption?
Does Pennsylvania have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Yes. The authority to regulate firearms is reserved to the state, except local municipalities may regulate the discharge of firearms within the cities boundaries. This has been reinforced by the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas decision against the City of Pittsburgh in Anderson v. City of Pittsburgh. The court found that Pittsburgh's attempt to impose local gun control measures was a clear violation of state preemption law.
[18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6120]
Red Flag Law?
Does Pennsylvania have a red flag law?
Pennsylvania does not have a red flag law.
Purchase Permits?
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania does not require a special permit at the time of handgun purchase.
Pennsylvania License Exempts from Background Check?
Does my current Pennsylvania concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
No.
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales? Exceptions?
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Pennsylvania? Are there exceptions?
Yes. Private party transfers of handguns must be conducted through a licensed dealer or at a county sheriff’s office. A background check is required. These requirements do not apply to transfers between spouses, parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren.
Waiting Period?
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Pennsylvania?
No. The state of Pennsylvania does not require a waiting time for handgun purchases.
Handgun Registration?
Do handguns need to be registered in Pennsylvania?
No. Handgun registration is not required in Pennsylvania.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Pennsylvania?
18 years old is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Pennsylvania.
Possess a Handgun on My Private Property Without a License?
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?
Yes. A License to Carry Firearms is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm in the person’s place of abode or fixed place of business.
Alabama (at least 21 years old)
Alaska
Arizona (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Arkansas (at least 21 years old)
Colorado
Florida (handguns only, resident permits only)
Georgia (at least 21 years old )
Idaho (enhanced permits only and at least 21 years old)
Indiana (at least 21 years old)
Iowa (at least 21 years old)
Kansas (resident permits only)
Kentucky (resident permits only)
Louisiana (resident permits only)
Michigan (resident permits only)
Mississippi (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Missouri (at least 21 years old)
Montana (at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
North Carolina (resident permits only)
North Dakota (Class 1 permits only and at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Ohio (resident permits only)
Oklahoma (at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Tennessee (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Texas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Utah (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
West Virginia (at least 21 years old, resident permits only)
Wisconsin (resident permits only)
Wyoming (at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Application:
You can access the application form directly from the Montgomery County website.
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:
Non-residents who possess a current license or permit to carry a firearm issued by their home state (if provided for by that state's laws) may apply for a non-resident license in Pennsylvania. This license is typically valid for 5 years but is tied to your resident license status.
Name/Address Changes:
If you change your address or legal name, visit your county/city Sheriff’s Office with an updated PA driver’s license or ID showing the new details and pay $5. Your card will be updated for the remaining period. Renewals within 60 days of expiration can be done with an application.
Lost/Stolen Licenses:
Lost or stolen Pennsylvania LCFs can be replaced at your county/city sheriff’s office. Bring a valid driver’s license or state ID, pay $5, and undergo a PICS check. Renewals within 60 days of expiration can be processed with an application.
Residency Changes:
Moving to or from Pennsylvania? Residents can apply for a resident license after residing in the county for 90 days. If moving from Pennsylvania, check if your license remains valid in your new state or if there's a grace period.
Requirements:
To apply, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Have been a county resident for 90 days or possess an out-of-state permit.
- Meet character and reputation requirements.
- Not have certain criminal convictions or mental health commitments.
- Not be addicted to drugs or alcohol, among other federal and state law criteria.
Fees:
Initial licenses and renewals cost $20.
Valid For:
Pennsylvania CC licenses are valid for 5 years.
Processing Time:
Expect processing to take approximately 45 days.
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Pennsylvania?
- Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes.
- Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? No.
- Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes.
- Carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and WMAs? Yes.
- Carry in places of worship? There is no State statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- The buildings and grounds of elementary and secondary education schools and school buses (However, a Pennsylvania court ruling in Commonwealth v Goslin upheld the defense for lawful possession of weapons on school property for “other lawful purpose[s],” as referenced in Section 912(c), leaving uncertainty regarding the legality of concealed carry in schools for self-defense) [18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 912];
- Courthouses (off-limits areas must be posted) [18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 913];
- Detention facilities and correctional institutions [18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 5122];
- Mental hospitals [18 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 5122];
- The public areas of One Penn Center, 2601 North Third Street, Harrisburg, under the jurisdiction of the Department of State including the interior offices of the Department of State, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, Bureau of Enforcement and Investigation, State Athletic Commission and leased offices and facilities related thereto [Dept. of Genl Services website];
- City of Philadelphia-owned buildings and parks (although this disregards state preemption laws) [Phila. Code § 16-306];
- Secured areas of airports; and
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.
I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Pennsylvania, but can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
- There is no known statute in Pennsylvania making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. In addition, the Pennsylvania State Police have indicated, “There is no prohibition in Pennsylvania on license to carry permit holders wearing a mask during the ongoing COVID-19 mitigation efforts.”
Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Pennsylvania?
- Yes, with a LCF or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity.
- [PA General Hunting Regulations]
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Pennsylvania?
- Yes, with a LCF or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity.
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Pennsylvania?
- Yes. It is unlawful for another person at the location where the activity is taking place to intentionally obstruct or interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife.
- [34 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2302]
- It is legal to openly carry or conceal any type of knife in Pennsylvania. Knives are prohibited on the grounds of any K-12 school and in courthouse buildings. Municipalities such as Philadelphia, which prohibits cutting weapons in public places, may have additional restrictions.
- [18 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 907, 908, 912, and 913]