Arizona is one of the best states in the nation when it comes to upholding gun owners’ rights. If you are considering buying a gun, you are probably wondering how state and federal laws affect your ability to carry a firearm. Since Arizona is a constitutional carry state, you do not need a permit for open or concealed carry. However, getting one may still be a good idea for other reasons.
A quick note: This article and all other information on our website is for general information purposes only. While our experts are happy to answer your general gun-related questions, we cannot provide any legal advice. If you are unsure whether any factors could affect the legality of owning or carrying a weapon in your case, please consult with an attorney.
The Basics of Constitutional Carry
Constitutional carry gets its name from the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, which gives citizens the right to bear arms. Constitutional carry states are also called permitless carry states since you do not need a permit or training to carry a firearm.
Not all permitless carry states allow both concealed and open carry without a permit. In some, only open carry falls under their constitutional carry laws.
The following states do not require a permit for either concealed or open carry:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- New Hampshire
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
The following states require a permit to carry a concealed firearm, but not for open carry:
- Alabama
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
Are There Restrictions for Permitless Carry
Although the above states do not require a license or permit to carry a gun, that doesn’t mean there are absolutely no restrictions. Most notably, every state has age requirements for open and concealed carry. In Arizona, for example, you can open carry at 18 years or older and can conceal carry at 21 years or older.
Additionally, there are still restrictions on who can legally own a firearm, and you must possess the gun legally in order to carry it. You can find general guidelines in our guide to buying a gun in Arizona. If you are unsure whether you are able to buy a gun, it’s important to consult with an attorney for clarification. Again, we cannot provide you with any legal advice.
Should You Get a Permit Anyway?
Although you do not need a permit to carry a concealed firearm in Arizona, there are several reasons you may want to consider getting one anyway.
These include:
- Reciprocity: If you have a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit in Arizona, it allows you to carry your firearm in other states as well. This is known as reciprocity and can be beneficial if you are traveling or moving. In the case of moving, you will also need a permit in your new state eventually, if applicable.
- Training: A CCW class gives you valuable information about firearms safety. Taking a class can help you be a more responsible gun owner. Getting your CCW gives you a foundation for any further training you wish to pursue.
- Streamlined Background Checks: The background check process may be streamlined for future gun purchases since you undergo a background check to get a CCW.
