Delaware Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map
*Page Last Updated: November 29, 2023Delaware is a may-issue state that offers both resident and temporary non-resident concealed carry permits to those who meet certain qualifications.
Because Delaware is a may-issue state, the attorney general has the right to approve or deny a person’s CCW permit application at their discretion.
In order to qualify for a Delaware Concealed Deadly Weapon License, you must be at least 18 years old; complete a firearms training course; be of good moral character; and have five references in your county that can vouch for your character and sobriety. There are also several factors that may disqualify you from being issued a CCW permit.
Delaware recognizes concealed carry permits from 21 other U.S. states and issues temporary non-resident permits to those who the attorney general deems need one for their work or for the protection of person or property.
In Delaware, open carry is legal for anyone at least 21 years old and federally allowed to possess a firearm. Some areas are still off-limits to open carry, including schools and detention facilities.
To learn more about Delaware carry laws, review Delaware code 1441, visit the Delaware Department of Justice’s website, or contact state authorities.
*Disclaimer: This Delaware concealed carry reciprocity map is not legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, check your state laws or consult an attorney.
Delaware Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance
Issue Type |
May issue |
Constitutional Carry |
No |
Open Carry |
Yes |
Nonresident Permits |
Yes – Temporary permits |
Enhanced Permits |
No |
Legal Age |
18 |
Permit Valid |
3-5 years |
Legal to Conceal Weapons Other Than Handguns? |
Yes – Folding knives with blades under 3 inches. |
Reciprocating States |
30 |
States Honored |
21 |
Duty to Inform |
No |
Castle Doctrine |
Yes |
Stand Your Ground |
No |
Issuing Agency |
Delaware Concealed Carry 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”.
What States Does Delaware Have Reciprocity With?
Delaware honors permits issued by the following states. Please note that Delaware only honors enhanced CCW permits from states marked with an asterisk.
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Florida
- Idaho*
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Missouri
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota*
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- West Virginia
What States Honor Delaware Concealed Carry Permit?
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 have a reciprocity agreement with Delaware. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer Delaware concealed carry permit reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply.
- Alabama
- Alaska*
- Arizona*
- Arkansas
- Colorado*
- Florida*
- Georgia*
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa*
- Kansas*
- Kentucky*
- Maine*
- Michigan*
- Mississippi*
- Missouri*
- Montana
- Nebraska*
- New Hampshire
- New Mexico
- North Carolina*
- North Dakota*
- Ohio*
- Oklahoma*
- South Carolina*
- South Dakota
- Tennessee*
- Texas*
- Utah*
- Vermont
- Virginia*
- West Virginia*
- Wisconsin*
- Wyoming*
Can I Conceal Carry a Gun in Delaware Without a License?
No. You must have a valid CCW permit from Delaware or a state that Delaware honors to legally conceal carry there.
What are the Requirements for a Delaware Concealed Carry Permit?
To obtain a Delaware Concealed Deadly Weapon License, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
-
Be at least 18 years old.
-
Be of good moral character.
-
Complete a firearms training course.
-
Have five references from the Delaware county in which you reside who can vouch for your character, sobriety, and need for a CCW license.
-
Meet all federal requirements.
There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to conceal carry or obtain a Delaware concealed carry permit:
-
A felony conviction.
-
The juvenile equivalent of a felony conviction if under the age of 25.
-
A conviction for unlawful use, possession, or sale of drugs.
-
Be the subject of a protection from abuse order.
-
Having been committed to a hospital, sanitarium, or institution for a mental disorder.
For a full, detailed list of concealed carry eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in the state of Delaware, visit the Delaware Department of Justice’s website.
Can a Non-resident Conceal Carry a Gun in Delaware?
Yes. Those with a valid CCW permit from a state that Delaware honors may carry there. The state also issues temporary non-resident CCW licenses to those whom the attorney general determines has a short-term need for one for work or protection.
Is Delaware an Open Carry State?
Yes. Open carry is legal in Delaware for anyone at least 21 years old and legally allowed to possess a firearm. Some areas are off-limits to open carry, including schools and detention facilities.
Delaware Concealed Carry Restrictions: Where CAN’T You Carry?
Even with a concealed carry permit, some locations are off-limits to concealed carry in the state of Delaware, including prisons and other detention facilities and any place where firearms are federally prohibited.
Where Can I Learn More About Delaware Concealed Carry Laws?
You can visit the Delaware Department of Justice’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit eligibility, or visit the Delaware Courts website to apply for a Delaware CCW License. For the official laws regarding Delaware concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read state statutes here.
This reciprocity map is provided for informational purposes only. Any activity involving firearms is potentially dangerous and could result in property damage, serious injury, disabling injury or death. All firearms must be handled in a responsible manner and in accordance with applicable law. The author disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy, misuse of, or misinterpretation of information contained in this reciprocity map.