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Wyoming Open Carry Laws |
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Wyoming’s approach to gun control is among the most permissive in the United States, reflecting its commitment to Second Amendment rights while addressing public safety concerns. Here’s an overview of Wyoming’s gun laws and regulations, focusing on recent developments from 2013 to 2023.
Wyoming law does not require a license, permit, or registration to buy or own a firearm. The state sets the minimum age to buy a long gun (rifle or shotgun) at 18 and for a handgun (pistol or revolver) at 21.
Wyoming implemented a permitless carry law for residents in 2011, allowing qualified individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit. This law expanded in 2021 to include qualified non-residents. Wyoming also offers a concealed firearms permit (CFP) for residents seeking reciprocity in other states. A state permit exempts holders from undergoing a background check when purchasing a new firearm from a federally licensed dealer.
The Wyoming Attorney General’s office issues permits through local sheriff’s offices. Wyoming operates as a “shall issue” state, granting permits to applicants meeting objective eligibility criteria. Permits are valid for five years, subject to possible revocation if the holder becomes ineligible.
Certain locations prohibit firearms, including law enforcement facilities, detention centers, courtrooms, and school grounds.
Wyoming does not regulate assault weapons or ghost guns and does not mandate background checks for private gun sales. There is no waiting period for firearm purchases.
Wyoming’s state preemption law prevents local authorities from enforcing stricter gun regulations than those at the state level.
Wyoming’s gun laws are detailed in Wyoming Statutes, Title 6, Chapter 8, Sections 6–8–101 through 6–8–406, and Title 21, Chapter 8, Section 21–3–132.
Wyoming allows possession of machine guns except in state game fields or forests, with federal regulations still applicable.
Various federal and state restrictions apply, barring firearm possession for certain felony convictions, domestic violence offenses, and other criteria.
