Concealed CarryReciprocity Map

North Carolina Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

North Carolina is a shall-issue state that requires a permit to conceal carry. Licenses are issued to adults who meet certain qualifications. North Carolina recognizes concealed carry permits from all other U.S. states.

To qualify for a North Carolina concealed carry permit, you must be at least 21 years old; be a citizen or permanent resident alien of the United States; be a resident of North Carolina for at least 30 days; be a resident of the county in which you’re applying; successfully complete a firearms training course, and meet all federal requirements. There are also certain factors that can disqualify you from obtaining a North Carolina carry permit.

Open carry is legal in North Carolina without a permit for those over the age of 18 and legally allowed to possess a firearm. Some counties may prohibit open carry in certain public areas.

To learn more about North Carolina CCW requirements, review state laws here or visit the North Carolina Attorney General’s website. 

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

North Carolina Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance

North Carolina 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 States’ Permits Does North Carolina Honor? 

North Carolina recognizes concealed carry permits issued by every other U.S. state. 

States that Honor North Carolina 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 honor North Carolina concealed carry permits. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer NC concealed carry reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply. 

Can You Carry a Gun Without a Concealed Weapons Permit in North Carolina?

No. Concealed carry is only permitted in North Carolina for those who have a license to do so.

What Are the Requirements for a North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit?

To obtain a North Carolina CCW license, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: 

• Be at least 21 years old. 

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

• Be a resident of North Carolina for at least 30 days and a resident of the county in which you’re applying.

• Complete a firearms training course. 

• Meet all federal requirements. 

There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to obtain a North Carolina carry permit:  

• A felony conviction or being under indictment for a felony.

• Be a fugitive from justice. 

• Having a mental or physical illness or impairment that prevents you from safely handling a firearm. 

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

• Certain misdemeanor convictions. 

• A DUI offense within the past three years. 

For a full, detailed list of eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in the state of North Carolina, read the laws and regulations here. 

Where CAN’T I Conceal Carry in North Carolina?

Even with a concealed carry permit, some places are off-limits to concealed carry in North Carolina, including school and university property; school-sponsored activities; law enforcement offices; correctional facilities; government buildings; private property with a “no weapons” sign; the grounds of the State Capitol Building, the Executive Mansion, and the Western Residence of the Governor; city and county playgrounds, athletic fields, swimming pools and athletic facilities; state fairgrounds; certain recreation areas; anywhere alcohol is consumed on the premises; and anywhere it is federally prohibited. 

Can a Non-resident Conceal Carry in North Carolina?

Yes, but only if you have a valid concealed carry permit from a state that North Carolina has reciprocity with.

Is North Carolina an Open Carry State?

Yes. In North Carolina, 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 North Carolina. That being said, some counties may prohibit the open carry of guns in certain public areas. 

Where Can I Learn More About NC Concealed Carry Laws? 

You can visit the North Carolina Attorney General’s website for the most up-to-date information on concealed carry in North Carolina and to learn more about how to apply for a North Carolina concealed handgun license. For the official laws regarding NC concealed carry permit reciprocity and regulations, you can read state laws here.