Nebraska is a shall-issue, permitless carry state. Permits are issued by the State Patrol Department.
A handgun certificate or concealed carry permit is required for all handgun purchases, including private sales. Omaha mandates handgun registration, but permit holders are exempt.
Open carry is legal without a permit for those 18 and older not barred from firearm possession, though local governments may impose restrictions. In vehicles, the firearm must be visible. Open carry in Omaha requires a concealed carry permit.
Residents with a Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) and non-residents with recognized licenses may legally carry concealed. As of April 25, 2023, Nebraska allows constitutional carry, permitting concealed carry without a CHP. Minimum age for a CHP is 21, with mandatory firearms training. Lincoln prohibits firearm possession for those convicted of certain misdemeanors within a decade.
Nebraska recognizes permits from states with equal or stricter standards.
Justifiable force includes preventing unlawful entry or property theft.
Nebraska follows Castle Doctrine, allowing defense without retreat in homes or workplaces. Outside, retreat is required unless defending against a violent intruder.
Force is justifiable to protect others under certain conditions, with no retreat duty in their dwelling or workplace.
Justifiable force is permitted to protect against unlawful force, serious harm, or property loss, with retreat not mandated except in certain circumstances.
Open Carry Permitted?
- Yes, without a permit for anyone at least 18 years of age that is not prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Gun Permit Licensure?
- Nebraska is a shall-issue state.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?
- You must be at least 21 years old to concealed carry in Nebraska.
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?
- No. A concealed carry permit does not allow the carry of weapons other than handguns.
Tasers or Stun Guns?
- Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?
- Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Nebraska.
Magazine Limits for Handguns?
- No. Nebraska does not have magazine capacity restrictions.
Ammunition Restrictions?
- No. Nebraska does not have ammunition restrictions.
Constitutional Carry?
- Yes. On April 25, 2023, Gov. Jim Pillen (R) signed LB 77 into law, making Nebraska the 27th constitutional carry state in the U.S.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Nebraska?
Yes, with a Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit or a license/permit from a state Nebraska honors, unless posted. The new permitless carry law does not address state/national parks.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Nebraska?
You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol with a Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit or a permit/license from a state that Nebraska honors, unless posted and provided you consume no alcohol. However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars or the bar areas of restaurants.
Does Nebraska have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Nebraska law allows a Concealed Handgun Permit holder to carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle even in the parking area of a location where concealed handgun possession is generally prohibited. The only requirement is that, prior to exiting the vehicle, the permit holder must lock the handgun inside the glove box, trunk, or other compartment of the vehicle, or a storage box securely attached to the vehicle.
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Nebraska?
Yes, with a Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit or a license/permit from a state Nebraska honors.
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Nebraska?
Any private business may prohibit a permitholder from carrying a concealed handgun into or onto the place or premises. The property must be posted with conspicuous notice that carrying a concealed handgun is prohibited or a request made that the permitholder remove the concealed handgun from the place or premises. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy.
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Nebraska?
Yes, you can carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a permit if it is in plain sight. However, some cities, such as Omaha, have ordinances on carrying firearms in a vehicle without a permit. Based on the Governor's signing of LB 236, as of August 26, 2021, a person without a permit who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm will be able to transport a firearm to, or from, any location where it can be lawfully possessed, carried, and used, provided it is unloaded, kept separate from ammunition and stored in a case.
Does Nebraska have a red flag law?
No. Nebraska does not have a red flag law.
Does Nebraska issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
Yes, but only to military personnel and their spouses, who are treated as residents.
Does Nebraska allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No, however the information is available for law enforcement.
Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Nebraska?
Yes. You have a duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Nebraska.
Is my Nebraska driver’s license linked to my Nebraska carry permit?
Yes. Your Nebraska driver’s license is linked to your Nebraska concealed handgun permit.
Does Nebraska have preemption laws related to concealed carry?
Yes. The state has preemption over regulating firearms.
Does Nebraska have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or a controlled substance?
Not while consuming or while the permit holder has remaining in his or her blood, urine, or breath any previously consumed alcohol or any controlled substance, as defined in NRS § 28-401.
Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Nebraska?
Yes. Any place open to the public must post conspicuous notice that carrying a concealed handgun is prohibited in or on the place, or make a request that the permit holder remove the concealed handgun from the place or premises.
Does Nebraska state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Nebraska law. However, a person commits the offense of assault in the third degree if he intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person, or threatens another person in a menacing manner.
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Nebraska?
Yes. A person acquiring a handgun must have either a handgun certificate or a concealed handgun permit, which involves a background check. Exceptions include transfers between family members or if the person acquiring the handgun holds a Nebraska CHP.
Nebraska Permit Exempts from Background Check?
Does my current Nebraska concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
Yes.
Waiting Period?
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Nebraska?
No. Nebraska does not have a waiting period after purchasing a handgun.
Handgun Registration?
Do handguns need to be registered in Nebraska?
Although there is no statewide registration, the City of Omaha requires handgun registration. Lincoln requires reporting firearms sales other than long guns used for sporting purposes.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Nebraska?
18 years old. Exceptions apply for temporary loan under supervision for instruction.
Possess a Handgun on My Private Property Without a Permit?
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit?
Yes. A permit is not required for legal possession on private property for self-defense.
Purchase Permits?
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Nebraska?
Yes. A handgun certificate or concealed carry permit is required for handgun purchase, excluding specific exemptions.
To purchase, rent, lease, or receive a handgun in Nebraska, whether from a licensed dealer or private transaction, you need a Firearm Purchase Certificate. Exemptions include transfers within families, licensed dealers, or valid Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit holders. The certificate is obtained from the local sheriff's office, valid for 3 years, and requires a Nebraska ID and application fee. Minimum age to apply is 21.
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 (handguns only, 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)
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)
Wyoming (Permitless carry, 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)
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)
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)
Moving to Nebraska and Applying for a Resident Permit?
Nebraska issues permits to residents and military stationed in Nebraska and their spouses. You can apply after residing in Nebraska for 180 days or as a new resident with a valid out-of-state permit.
Moving from Nebraska with a Nebraska Resident Permit?
Your Nebraska permit expires upon establishing residency in another state.
5 days
Yes, available for military permanently stationed in Nebraska and their spouses.
Permit holders must notify Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) within 30 days of name/address change using the application form. Moving out of state requires returning the permit to NSP.
Report to NSP within 10 days and request a replacement permit online. Permit must be in possession while carrying concealed.
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Reside in Nebraska for 180 days, or be a new resident with a recognized out-of-state permit, or be military stationed in Nebraska or spouse.
- Pass an approved firearms training course and vision test.
- Not be on parole, probation, house arrest, or work release.
- Not have felony convictions or certain misdemeanors in the past 10 years.
- Not be adjudged mentally incompetent.
- Meet federal law requirements.
Consult with an attorney regarding eligibility.
- Initial Permit: $100
- Renewals: $50 ($4.50 extra for online renewals)
5 years
If you don’t have a driver's license, download the vision statement form from the State Patrol website, schedule a vision test, and provide the form for completion by your optometrist or ophthalmologist. A driver’s license proves your vision was tested and passed.
Complete a firearms training course.
Download the application or pick one up from State Patrol headquarters. Complete the form and have it notarized.
Take the notarized application to your nearest State Patrol headquarters along with:
- Proof of firearms training.
- Proof of vision (driver’s license or completed vision statement).
- Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport).
- Proof of address (driver's license or Nebraska ID card).
You will be fingerprinted, and your signature and photo will be taken.
You will be notified if your application has been approved.
- Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol, unless posted and provided you consume no alcohol. However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars or the bar areas of restaurants.
- 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, unless posted.
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- Police, sheriff or Nebraska State Patrol station or office;
- Detention facility, prison or jail;
- Courtroom or building which contains a courtroom;
- Polling place during a bona fide election;
- Meeting of the governing body of a county, public school district, municipality or other political subdivision;
- Meeting of the legislature or a committee of the legislature;
- Financial institution;
- Professional, semi-professional or collegiate athletic event;
- Place of worship;
- Hospital, emergency room or trauma center;
- Political rally or fundraiser;
- Establishment having a license issued under the Nebraska Liquor Control Act that derives over one half of its total income from the sale of alcoholic liquor;
- A place or premises where the person, entity or employer in control has prohibited permit holders from carrying concealed handguns.
[Neb. Rev. Stat. § 69-2441(1)(a)]
- Building, grounds, vehicle or sponsored activity or athletic event of any elementary, vocational or secondary school, or postsecondary career school, college or university [Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1204.04];
- Offutt Air Force Base, except current and former military law enforcement personnel who have permits that allow qualifying military police to carry concealed weapons may carry [Internal Policy as of January 2020];
- Game refuges [Neb. Rev. Stat. § 37-708];
- State Wild Game Preserves [Neb. Rev. Stat. § 37-712];
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.
- It is legal to open carry any type of knife in Nebraska, except for convicted felons, fugitives or person's knowingly violating a domestic violence protective order. Concealed carry of any knife having a blade longer than 3½ inches or capable of inflicting cutting, stabbing or tearing wounds is illegal.
[NRS §§ 28-1201, 28-1202 & 28-1206]
- I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Nebraska, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
There is no known statute in Nebraska making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
- Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Nebraska?
Yes.
- Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Nebraska?
No. It is unlawful to hunt antelope or deer, under authority of an archery permit while in possession of, or having under control, any firearm, or to hunt antelope or deer under authority of a muzzleloader permit while in possession of, or having under control, any breech-loading firearm, except that this shall not prohibit carrying a firearm within the enclosed portion of a vehicle.
[Neb. Admin. Code Title 163, Ch. 4.001.01B5]
- Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Nebraska?
Yes. No person shall knowingly and intentionally interfere or attempt to interfere with another person who is not trespassing and who is lawfully hunting or trapping any game bird, game animal, fur-bearing animal, or other wild mammal or bird or engaged in activity associated with hunting, trapping or fishing. Activity associated with hunting, trapping, or fishing shall mean travel, camping, or other acts that are preparatory to or in conjunction with hunting, trapping, or fishing on lands or waters upon which hunting, trapping, or fishing may lawfully occur and that are done by a hunter, a trapper, or an angler or by a member of a hunting, trapping, or fishing party.
[Neb. Rev. Stat. § 37-564]