Concealed CarryReciprocity Map

California Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

California is a shall-issue state that requires a residential CCW permit to conceal carry. Licenses are issued to adults who meet certain qualifications. 

California does not recognize concealed carry licenses issued by any other U.S. state, though their permit is honored by 28 of them. 

To qualify for a California concealed carry permit, you must be at least 18 years old; be a U.S. citizen; be a resident of the county in which you apply; complete a firearms training course; have good moral character; have good cause to obtain a CCL; and be federally permitted to possess a firearm. There are also several factors that may disqualify you from obtaining a California carry permit. 

Open carry is generally illegal in California. However, a sheriff or chief of police in any county with a population of under 200,000 is permitted to issue open carry licenses that are valid within that county. 

To learn more about California concealed carry law, review California laws here or visit the California Department of Justice Bureau of Firearms website here. 

*Disclaimer: This California concealed carry reciprocity map is not legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, check your state laws or consult an attorney. 

California Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance

Concealed Carry California FAQ

What is Reciprocity? 

Concealed carry reciprocity refers to a mutual agreement between two states to honor CCW licenses issued by one another. Depending on the state, concealed carry reciprocity can vary greatly. Some states simply accept permits from other states, while others do so with some added caveats. To learn more about this topic, check out “What is Concealed Carry Reciprocity”.

Does California Recognize Permits from Other States? 

No. California does not honor concealed carry permits issued by any other state. 

Which States Honor California CCW Permits? 

Gun laws vary from state to state. When traveling with firearms, it’s your responsibility to know and comply with the laws of the state you’re visiting. Before transporting a gun over state lines, always check the laws in that state to ensure you’re doing so legally. 

The following states honor California concealed carry permits. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer California concealed carry reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply. 

Can You Carry a Gun in California Without a License? 

No. Concealed carry is only permitted in California for those who have a valid California Concealed Carry Weapons License. 

What are the Requirements for a California Concealed Carry Permit?

To obtain a California CCW permit, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: 

• Be 18 years or older.

• Be of good moral character.

• Have good cause to be issued a license. 

• Reside or work in the county in which you apply.

• Complete a training course. 

• Be legally permitted to possess a firearm under federal law.

There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to obtain a California concealed carry license:  

• A felony conviction. 

• Certain misdemeanor convictions. 

• Have a restraining or protective order against you. 

• A drug addiction. 

• Certain mental illnesses. 

• Be considered a threat to oneself or others. 

• Have a dishonorable discharge from the military. 

• Be a fugitive of justice. 

California has many, and often complicated, rules regarding who is eligible for a CCL. For a full, detailed list of eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in the state of California, read the California Department of Justice Bureau of Investigation’s regulations here. 

Where Can You NOT Conceal Carry in California?

Even with a concealed carry permit, some places are off-limits to concealed carry in California, including K-12 school grounds; college and university campuses; courtrooms; gun shows or events; child care centers; State Capitol grounds; legislative, governor, or other government officers’ offices; the residence of a government official; wildlife management areas and refuges; polling stations; picketing events; public places while wearing a mask; places that serve alcohol for on-site consumption; and anyplace that is prohibited by federal law. 

Some cities, counties, and municipalities within the state of California may have additional firearm regulations. Be sure to check before you visit! 

Can a Non-resident Conceal Carry in California? 

No. Only California residents with a valid in-state concealed carry permit are allowed to conceal carry.

Can you Open Carry in California? 

As a general rule, open carry is not permitted in California. However, in counties with a population of under 200,000 people, the sheriff or chief of police may issue permits that allow a person to open carry within that county. 

Where Can I Learn More About California Concealed Carry Laws? 

You can visit the California Department of Justice Bureau of Firearms’ website for the most up-to-date information on concealed carry in California and to learn more about how to apply for a California concealed carry permit. For the official laws regarding California CCW reciprocity and regulations, you can read state laws here.