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Wyoming Concealed Carry Laws |
Wyoming is a shall-issue state. Wyoming Concealed Firearms Permit (CFP) applications are processed locally by the county sheriff’s office and issued by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI). Local law enforcement has some discretion in determining whether or not to issue a concealed weapons permit to an applicant.
No permit is needed to purchase a firearm from a private individual, no background check is required, there is no waiting period, and there is no firearms registration in the state. Background checks are required if purchasing a handgun from a Federal Firearms Dealer. However, a Wyoming CFP exempts the holder from the federal requirement of a background check prior to the purchase of a firearm.
Open carry is legal without a permit for anyone who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm.
As of July 1, 2021, permitless concealed carry is legal for any legal resident of the U.S. who is 21 years old or older and who may lawfully possess a firearm. The minimum age to purchase and possess a handgun is 21 years old — 18 years old for shotguns or rifles. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and businesses primarily devoted to the sale and consumption of alcohol. A Wyoming CFP requires a state-approved firearms training course or experience with a firearm through participation in an organized shooting competition or military service. Wyoming does not issue non-resident permits. In terms of reciprocity, Wyoming honors permits from other states that recognize Wyoming permits.
Wyoming is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. There is no duty to retreat, and the law applies at a person’s home or habitation or any place where the person is lawfully present.
The use of defensive force is reasonable when it is the defensive force that a reasonable person in like circumstances would judge necessary to prevent an injury or loss and no more, including deadly force if necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury to the person employing the deadly force.
A person is presumed to have held a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury to himself or herself or another when using defensive force, including deadly force if:
- The intruder against whom the defensive force was used was in the process of unlawfully and forcefully entering or had unlawfully and forcibly entered another’s home or habitation, or if that intruder had removed or was attempting to remove another against his or her will from one’s home or habitation.
- The person who uses defensive force knew or had reason to believe that an unlawful and forcible entry or unlawful and forcible act was occurring.
A person who unlawfully and by force enters or attempts to enter another’s home or habitation is presumed to be doing so with the intent to commit an unlawful act involving force or violence.
A person who uses legal, reasonable defensive force shall not be criminally prosecuted for that use of reasonable defensive force.
Does Wyoming have ammunition restrictions?
No, Wyoming law does not restrict handgun ammunition types.
Does Wyoming allow permitless carry?
Yes. As of July 1, 2021, permitless concealed carry is legal for any legal resident of the U.S. who is 21 years old or older, and who may lawfully possess a firearm.
Is open carry permitted in Wyoming?
Yes, without a permit. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm can open carry.
What is the minimum age in Wyoming to get a concealed carry permit?
The minimum age to apply for a Wyoming Concealed Firearms Permit is 21. However, individuals who are at least 18 years old may apply if the local sheriff makes a personal recommendation on their behalf.
If Wyoming requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?
Wyoming is a shall-issue state with discretion.
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Wyoming with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
No. A Wyoming Concealed Firearms Permit does not permit carrying weapons besides handguns.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Wyoming?
Yes. Stun guns and tasers are legal to purchase without a permit.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Wyoming?
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Wyoming.
Does Wyoming have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. There are no handgun magazine capacity limits in Wyoming.
Yes. Without a permit, anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle.
Yes, without a permit.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Wyoming?
Yes, without a permit. However, the use of firearms is prohibited in all state parks, campgrounds, recreational grounds, historic landmarks, or historic sites unless otherwise designated by the state Fish and Game Commission.
You can carry a concealed firearm in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol without a permit, unless posted otherwise. Concealed carry is not allowed in bars or bar areas of restaurants.
Wyoming statutes do not specifically address firearms at hotels. Each hotel has its own policies, so it's best to contact the individual hotel to inquire about its concealed carry policy.
No, Wyoming state law does not address the storage of firearms in private vehicles in employee parking lots.
Does Wyoming state law define brandishing?
No, Wyoming law does not define "brandishing." However, any person who knowingly points a firearm at or in the direction of another, whether or not the firearm is believed to be loaded, is guilty of reckless endangering unless it is reasonably necessary in defense of their person, property, or abode or to prevent serious bodily injury to another. [Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-504]
Does Wyoming have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?
According to the Game and Fish Code, no person shall carry a firearm with a cartridge therein, or take any wildlife in Wyoming, while intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance as defined in Wyo. Stat. § 35-7-1002. [Wyo. Stat. § 23-3-307]
As a responsibly armed individual, 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.
Does Wyoming issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
No, Wyoming does not issue permits to non-residents.
Does Wyoming allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No, public access to concealed carry registry information is not allowed in Wyoming. However, the information is available for law enforcement.
Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Wyoming?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm unless the officer asks. [Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(b)]
Is my Wyoming driver’s license linked to my Wyoming carry permit?
Yes, your Wyoming driver’s license is linked to your Wyoming concealed firearms permit. This means that if a law enforcement officer runs your driver’s license, they will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry permit holder.
Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Wyoming?
Yes, "No Weapons Allowed" signs are enforced in Wyoming. A person is guilty of criminal trespass if they enter or remain on property knowing they are not authorized to do so, or after being notified through personal communication or posted signs prohibiting firearms. [Wyo. Stat. § 6-3-303]
Does Wyoming have preemption laws related to concealed carry?
Yes, Wyoming has preemption of firearms laws. This means state law supersedes local laws regarding the possession of handguns. [Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-401(c)]
Does Wyoming have a red flag law?
No, Wyoming does not have a red flag law.
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Wyoming?
No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun.
Does my current Wyoming concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
Yes.
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Wyoming?
No. You are not required to get a special permit before purchasing a handgun in Wyoming.
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Wyoming?
No. There is no waiting period to buy a handgun in Wyoming.
Do handguns need to be registered in Wyoming?
No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Wyoming.
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Wyoming?
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Wyoming.
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit?
Although residents can concealed carry and open carry without a permit, Wyoming Statutes don’t specifically address carry on private property.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Indiana (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)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 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)
New Mexico (at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (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)
Virginia (at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (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)
What are the requirements for obtaining a concealed carry permit in Wyoming?
An applicant must:
- Be a citizen of the United States.
- Have been a resident of Wyoming for at least 6 months or hold a valid statewide concealed firearm permit issued in another state that recognizes Wyoming permits.
- Be at least 21 years of age (or at least 18 years of age if the local sheriff makes a personal recommendation on the applicant’s behalf).
- Demonstrate familiarity with a firearm by past experience or through the completion of certain safety or training courses.
- Not be prohibited by state law from possessing a firearm.
- Not suffer from a physical infirmity that would prevent the safe handling of a firearm.
- Not have been committed to a state or federal facility for the abuse of a controlled substance within the previous year.
- Not have ever been convicted of certain state or federal felony crimes relating to controlled substances, and not have been convicted of certain state or federal misdemeanor crimes relating to controlled substances within the previous year.
- Not chronically or habitually use alcoholic liquor or malt beverages to the extent that normal faculties are impaired, and not have been involuntarily committed within the past year to any residential facility as a result of alcohol use.
- Not currently be adjudicated to be legally incompetent, and not have been committed to a mental institution.
- Not have been found guilty of, or have pled no contest to, one or more misdemeanor crimes of violence within the last 3 years.
- Meet federal law requirements.
Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Wyoming.
What are the fees for a concealed carry permit in Wyoming?
- Initial Permit: $64 (The sheriff’s office may charge a separate fee for processing and fingerprinting.)
- Renewal: $45
How long is the concealed carry permit valid?
The permit is valid for 5 years.
What is the processing time for a concealed carry permit application?
The processing time is approximately 90 days.
Where can I find the application for a concealed carry permit?
Visit the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) website for more information and to access the application forms.
Does Wyoming issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
No, Wyoming does not issue permits to non-residents.
How do I change my name or address on my concealed carry permit?
Complete the Address & Name Change Form and provide documentation for name changes. Email or mail the completed form to the address specified on the form. Note that new permits are not issued for address changes.
What should I do if my concealed carry permit is lost or stolen?
Complete a Duplicate Permit Application, provide a notarized statement to the DCI that the permit has been lost or destroyed, and pay a $5 fee for a duplicate. County sheriff's departments maintain all required forms and collect all funds for CFPs. They may also provide notary services.
What happens to my concealed carry permit if I move to or from Wyoming?
- Moving to Wyoming: You can apply for a resident permit with the sheriff of your county once you have been a resident of Wyoming for at least six months or hold a valid statewide concealed firearm permit issued in another state that recognizes Wyoming permits.
- Moving from Wyoming: If you move to another state, your Wyoming permit remains valid until it expires, provided you notify the DCI within 30 days of your move. The permit will not be renewed after it expires, as permits are only issued to Wyoming residents.
What are the knife laws in Wyoming?
It is legal to own and open carry any type of knife. Concealed carry of a deadly weapon is allowed for individuals who have a valid weapon permit or are otherwise eligible to hold a weapon permit. Restrictions apply to carrying knives in schools, college or professional athletic facilities, bars, government meetings, jails, state penal institutions, the Wyoming boys' school, the Wyoming girls' school, and correctional facilities.
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Wyoming?
Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm while bow hunting. However, the use of firearms is prohibited for taking or finishing off any big or trophy game animals during the archery season.
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Wyoming?
Yes, Wyoming has a Hunter Harassment Law. It is illegal to intentionally prevent or hinder the lawful taking of any wildlife.
Can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying a concealed firearm in Wyoming?
There is no known statute in Wyoming that makes it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying a concealed firearm.
Can you concealed carry while shotgun or rifle hunting in Wyoming?
Yes, you are allowed to carry a concealed firearm while shotgun or rifle hunting.