Concealed CarryReciprocity Map

Kentucky Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

Kentucky is a shall-issue, permitless carry state that allows both residents and non-residents to conceal or open carry with or without a CCW license.

In Kentucky, constitutional carry became legal in 2019 allowing anyone over the age of 21 who is legally permitted to possess a firearm to conceal carry without needing to obtain a permit. 

To qualify for a Kentucky CCW permit, you must be at least 21 years old; successfully complete a firearms training course; be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.; be a resident of Kentucky or an active-duty military member stationed in the state; and meet all federal requirements. There are also a number of factors that may disqualify you from obtaining a permit. 

In addition to firearms, it is legal to conceal other weapons including knives other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife; a billy, nightstick, or club; a blackjack or slapjack; nunchaku karate sticks; a shiriken or death star; and artificial knuckles made from plastic or other similar hard material.

Open carry is also legal in Kentucky for anyone over 18 and legally permitted to possess a firearm.

To learn more about Kentucky concealed carry law, review KRS 237.110 here, visit the Kentucky State Police’s website, or contact state authorities. 

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

Kentucky Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance

Kentucky 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”.

Which State Permits Does Kentucky Honor? 

Kentucky allows permitless carry, meaning anyone 21 years or older can conceal carry in the state with or without a license – regardless of their state of residence – so long as they are legally permitted to possess a firearm. 

What States Honor Kentucky 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 Kentucky. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer Kentucky concealed carry permit reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply. 

Can I Carry a Gun Without a Permit in Kentucky?

Yes. Kentucky became a constitutional carry state in 2019, allowing anyone 21 years of age or older to conceal carry without a permit so long as they are legally permitted to possess a firearm. 

Kentucky concealed carry permit requirements

To obtain a Kentucky Carry Handgun License, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: 

• Be at least 21 years of age.

• Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the U.S.

• Be a resident of Kentucky or be an active-duty military member stationed in the state. 

• Complete a firearms training course and demonstrate competency with a firearm. 

• Meet all federal requirements.

There are also certain factors that may disqualify you from obtaining a Kentucky CCDW. 

• Being a fugitive from justice. 

• Being convicted of, or under indictment for, a crime punishable by over one year of imprisonment. 

• Illegal use of, or addiction to, a controlled substance. 

• Certain mental illnesses and/or having been committed to a mental institution. 

• A dishonorable discharge from the military. 

• Being the subject of a domestic violence or emergency protective order. 

• A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction. 

• Have been committed to a state or federal facility for abuse of a controlled substance or convicted of a misdemeanor relating to a controlled substance within three years prior to application.

• Having two or more DUI convictions within three years prior to application. 

• Having been committed as an alcoholic within three years prior to application. 

• Owing at least a year's worth of child support. 

• Having complied with any subpoena or warrant relating to child support or paternity proceedings. 

• A conviction of assault in the fourth degree or terroristic threatening in the third degree within three years prior to application.

For a full, detailed list of concealed carry eligibility requirements in the state of Kentucky, visit the Kentucky State Police’s website. 

Can Out-of-State Residents Carry in Kentucky?

Yes. Kentucky honors permits from every U.S. state. However, regardless of your CCL status, non-residents may conceal carry under the Kentucky constitutional carry law, as long as they are legally eligible to do so. 

Is Kentucky an Open Carry State?

Yes. In Kentucky, open carry is legal for anyone at least 18 years old who is legally permitted to possess a handgun. No permit is required for open carry in Kentucky. 

Where CAN’T You Conceal Carry in Kentucky? 

Even with a concealed carry permit, some locations are off-limits to concealed carry in Kentucky, including schools and school buses; any child care facility; police stations and sheriff’s offices; detention facilities; a courthouse or court proceeding; a government or General Assembly meeting; bars; secure areas of airports; and anywhere it is federally prohibited. 

Where Can I Learn More About Kentucky Carry Laws? 

You can visit the Kentucky State Police’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit eligibility or to apply for a Kentucky CCDW. For the official laws regarding KY concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read state statutes here.