Part of A Growing Movement
There’s no denying that Alabama takes Second Amendment rights seriously. Thanks to recent changes and a strong commitment to lawful firearm ownership, the state provides a relatively straightforward path for law-abiding citizens who want to carry concealed.
In this article, we’ll explore the most important points of the concealed carry laws Alabama enforces, share key facts about permits, and walk through where you can and cannot carry.
We’ll also touch on concealed carry training and how this state’s regulations compare to CCW requirements by state nationwide.
Table of Contents
A Look at Alabama’s Shall-Issue and Permitless Carry Policies
Alabama has traditionally been a shall-issue state, meaning county sheriffs are required to issue concealed weapons permits if applicants meet all legal criteria. Effective January 1, 2023, the state began allowing permitless carry for individuals 19 years or older who can legally possess a firearm. This means you are no longer required to obtain a permit to carry a concealed handgun if you meet state and federal laws for lawful possession.
Still, many Alabama residents opt to get a state-issued pistol permit because it can be useful when traveling, especially given CCW requirements by state vary across the country. A permit can also simplify interactions with law enforcement and provide additional peace of mind. If you’d like a pistol permit, simply apply through your local sheriff’s office. Applications are typically approved in 30 days, unless your sheriff has specific concerns about your suitability.
Who Can Carry and Where
Age Restrictions
- Anyone 19 or older who is legally able to possess a firearm can open carry or carry concealed under permitless carry.
- Alabama pistol permits are issued to state residents 19 or older. Military members 18 and older stationed in Alabama (including spouses) may also qualify.
Locations Off-Limits:
Despite the broad freedoms, a few places remain strictly off-limits for concealed carry. These include courthouses, prisons, police stations, mental health facilities, and certain sporting events. Be aware that private property owners may also prohibit firearms on their premises. Signs stating “No Weapons Allowed” are not legally enforceable under state law but always respect private property rights. Just remember, you could be trespassed.
Civil and Criminal Immunity for Self-Defense
Alabama upholds a strong Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground policy. Law-abiding citizens acting in justified self-defense are immune from criminal prosecution and civil action, unless the force is determined to be unlawful. This protective measure offers peace of mind should you ever need to defend yourself or others from imminent threats.
No Duty to Retreat
In situations where you have a legal right to be (such as your home or place of business), Alabama law does not require you to retreat before defending yourself. This concept is often called “Stand Your Ground.” If you reasonably believe you are facing the threat of death or serious bodily harm, you may use appropriate force—up to and including deadly force.
For general information on self-defense laws, we list a number of excellent resources that you can see in our online resources section.
Why Consider Concealed Carry Training?
Even though Alabama does not legally require classes or demonstration of firearms knowledge before you can carry concealed as a resident, it’s always a good idea to seek concealed carry training. Responsible citizens who train regularly are generally more confident and better prepared to use their firearms lawfully and safely. Firearms training can include practice at the range, learning proper handling techniques, and studying safe storage methods.
Buying and Owning Firearms
Private firearms sales in Alabama don’t require background checks. However, you must abide by state and federal prohibitions on firearm possession. Keeping receipts or documentation is wise, as it establishes a clear chain of ownership if questions arise later. Alabama does not mandate gun registration, nor does it impose magazine capacity restrictions.
Traveling With Your Firearm
Reciprocity:
Alabama honors permits from every other state. This is a boon for travelers, but always remember that CCW requirements by state can vary. If you’re an Alabama permit holder going elsewhere, check the destination state’s laws before traveling. Conversely, out-of-state permit holders can legally carry in Alabama but must adhere to Alabama’s regulations while in the state.
Vehicle Carry:
Since January 1, 2023, you can carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle without a permit in Alabama. For workplaces, firearms must be kept locked out of sight when you leave your vehicle and cannot be prohibited if you have a valid concealed handgun license. However, always confirm your employer’s policies to ensure compliance.
Additional Weapons & Miscellaneous Rules
- Stun Guns & Tasers: Legal statewide without a permit, except the City of Mobile requires a city permit, and they’re banned on school property in the City of Montgomery.
- Pepper Spray: Legal as long as it’s not used to commit a crime or assault a law enforcement officer.
- Ammunition Restrictions: Teflon-coated brass or steel ammo designed to penetrate ballistic vests is prohibited. Lead or brass ammo that expands on impact is allowed. The Teflon restriction is a holdover of 1960’s pearl clutching.
Final Thoughts - Policing the Brass
The concealed carry laws Alabama maintains reflect the state’s longstanding commitment to upholding our Second Amendment freedoms. From permitless carry for qualified citizens to robust self-defense protections, Alabama is well-recognized for supporting law-abiding gun owners. However, regulations can change, and staying informed is critical.
Remember: with great freedom comes great responsibility. Seek out quality concealed carry training, know your rights, and respect the law. By doing so we can see more.
If you would like additional information on specific laws and more, you can refer to HandgunLaw.us for their Alabama guide.
Concealed Carry Laws Alabama: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Alabama? | Yes. It is legal to buy or use chemical/pepper spray for self-defense. It is a crime to use it in the commission of a crime or against law enforcement on duty. Misuse is a Class C felony. [Ala. Code 13A-6-27] |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If Alabama requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Alabama is a shall-issue state, with a local sheriff’s office granting pistol permits. However, the sheriff can deny applications if there’s a “reasonable suspicion” the applicant may use a firearm unlawfully. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Alabama? | Yes. Any law-abiding citizen at least 19 years old and legally allowed to possess a firearm may openly carry without a permit. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Alabama? | Yes. You may buy and possess stun guns/Tasers without a permit. However, the City of Mobile requires a city permit, and City of Montgomery prohibits them on school property (including in vehicles). |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Alabama with a permit (or under permitless carry)? | No. Pistol permits in Alabama cover handguns only. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Alabama have ammunition restrictions? | Yes. Brass or steel teflon-coated ammo and other armor-piercing rounds designed to penetrate bullet-proof vests are banned, unless they’re specifically designed to expand on contact. [Ala. Code § 13A-11-60] |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Alabama have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. There are no magazine capacity limits in Alabama law. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Alabama to get a concealed carry permit? | The minimum age is 19 for an Alabama pistol permit. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does Alabama allow constitutional (permitless) carry? | Yes. As of January 1, 2023, anyone legally allowed to possess a firearm may concealed carry a pistol without a permit. (You must be at least 19 years old.) |
Carry Location Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Alabama? | Yes, if you’re at least 19 and legally allowed to carry. No specific prohibition applies unless posted “No Weapons.” |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas? | Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit or a recognized out-of-state permit. Handguns only in state parks and WMAs. [Ala. Admin. Code § 220-2-.08; § 220-5-.08(1)] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Alabama? | Yes. Starting January 1, 2023, no permit is required to carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle, provided you are legally allowed to possess a firearm. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Alabama? | State law allows concealed carry on private property with owner consent. Each hotel sets its own policy. Contact the hotel to confirm whether firearms are permitted. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Alabama? | Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit or a permit from a state Alabama honors. Alabama’s constitutional carry law also applies, so a permit isn’t required if you’re at least 19 and legally allowed to possess a firearm. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does Alabama have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? | Yes. A public or private employer cannot prohibit an employee with a valid pistol permit from keeping a firearm in a locked vehicle, out of sight, in the parking area. [Ala. Code § 13A-11-90] |
Key State Laws
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does Alabama allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? | No. The registry is not open to public records; only law enforcement can access it. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Must you notify a police officer you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Alabama? | Yes. If a law enforcement officer asks if you are armed, you must immediately inform the officer if you have a concealed pistol on your person or in the vehicle. [Ala. Code § 3 (2022 law)] |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Alabama have a red flag law? | No. Alabama does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Does Alabama enforce “No Weapons Allowed” signs? | No. State statutes do not mention criminal penalties for violating privately posted “No Weapons” signs. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Alabama? | Poarch Creek Indian Reservation does not allow firearms. Contact tribal authorities for any tribal property rules regarding carrying firearms. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Any laws on carrying a concealed firearm while under the influence? | Not specifically addressed. It’s unwise to carry while impaired; any irresponsible action can have severe legal consequences. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Alabama issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | No. Only Alabama residents and active-duty military stationed in Alabama (and spouses) may get an Alabama pistol permit. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Alabama law define brandishing? | No. However, openly carrying a holstered pistol is not considered disorderly conduct. Pointing or waving a gun threateningly could be charged under other criminal statutes. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my Alabama driver’s license linked to my Alabama pistol permit? | No, the driver’s license is not automatically linked to pistol permit data. However, an Alabama officer may consult the Firearm Prohibited Person Database. |
| PREEMPTION? Does Alabama law supersede local firearms ordinances? | Yes. Alabama state law fully preempts local gun laws, allowing only ordinances related to the discharge of firearms or taxes. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Alabama? | No. There is no waiting period in Alabama. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a permit exempt me from needing a background check in Alabama? | No. Alabama does not exempt permit holders from federal background checks. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to buy a handgun in Alabama? | No. No permit is needed to purchase a handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Alabama? | No. Private sales do not require a background check, but federal prohibitions still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess/transport a handgun in Alabama? | 19 years old for general possession. However, minors can handle firearms in certain supervised activities or when on private property with guardian permission. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I have a handgun at home without a permit? | Yes. Anyone at least 19 and legally allowed to own a firearm may possess/carry a handgun openly or concealed on their own property. [Ala. Code § 13A-11-73(a)] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Alabama? | No. Alabama does not have handgun registration. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF ALABAMA HONOR? | Alabama honors all out-of-state concealed carry permits. The minimum age to carry is 19 unless otherwise stated by federal law. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF ALABAMA? | The following states currently honor or recognize Alabama permits (permitless states must still follow their own age and restriction rules):
Other states may have restrictions or only accept resident permits from Alabama. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF ALABAMA? | States with conditions or that only honor Alabama resident permits:
|
WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES?
| STATE | AGE RESTRICTION/NOTES |
|---|---|
| Alaska | (21+) |
| Arizona | (21+) |
| Arkansas | (18+) |
| Florida | (21+) |
| Georgia | (21+) |
| Idaho | (18+) |
| Indiana | (18+) |
| Iowa | (21+) |
| Kansas | (21+) |
| Kentucky | (21+) |
| Louisiana | (21+) |
| Maine | (21+) |
| Mississippi | (21+) |
| Missouri | (19+, 18 for military) |
| Montana | (18+) |
| Nebraska | (21+) |
| New Hampshire | (18+) |
| North Dakota | (18+) |
| Ohio | (21+) |
| Oklahoma | (21+) |
| South Carolina | (18+) |
| South Dakota | (18+) |
| Tennessee | (18+) |
| Texas | (21+) |
| Utah | (21+) |
| Vermont | (18+) |
| West Virginia | (21+) |
| Wyoming | (21+) |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Contact the county sheriff that issued your pistol permit for a replacement. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | The applicant can choose 1 to 5 years. The local sheriff sets the renewal terms and fees. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Varies by county sheriff’s office. Some counties have online systems (e.g., Jefferson County, Elmore County). Check your local sheriff’s website. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | No. Alabama only issues permits to residents or active-duty military (and their spouses) stationed in the state. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF ALABAMA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | When you move out of Alabama, your Alabama permit expires once you establish residency in another state. You can apply for a permit once residency is established. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Typically around $20 per year, up to $300 for a lifetime permit (some local variations). Veterans with an honorable discharge can get free permits if they qualify. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Sheriffs have up to 30 days to process applications and either issue or deny the permit. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Contact the local sheriff who issued the permit to update your information. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | – Must be at least 19 – Alabama resident or active-duty military stationed in AL – “Suitable person,” no serious criminal or mental health disqualifiers – U.S. citizen or lawful alien – Pass federal checks for firearm possession |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Obtain application from local sheriff 2. Complete form 3. Pay fees and submit 4. Allow up to 30 days for approval/denial |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | There is no formal training requirement in Alabama for a pistol permit. However, seeking voluntary training is strongly recommended. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1. Renew before permit expiration 2. Mail or bring old license to sheriff’s office (or do it online if available) 3. Pay renewal fee |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Bars/restaurants that serve alcohol (unless posted) – Vehicle (without a permit if at least 19 and legally allowed to possess) – Roadside rest areas – State/national parks, forests & WMAs (handguns only in state parks/WMAs) – Places of worship unless posted or owner objects |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Police stations, jails, courthouses – Facilities dedicated to psychiatric care – Places where county commissions or city councils are meeting – Sports events (with certain exceptions if posted) – Buildings with security checkpoints & guards – Demonstrations – Alabama State House – University of Alabama – Anywhere prohibited by federal law or posted “No Firearms” |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. Intentionally interfering with a lawful hunt or fishing activity is prohibited. [Ala. Code 9-11-270] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may carry a concealed handgun for personal protection, so long as it’s not used to hunt wildlife illegally. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, with a valid pistol permit for personal protection, not for hunting/taking game unlawfully. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Generally, knives are legal. However, it’s illegal to keep a Bowie knife in a vehicle. Certain large or prohibited knives could lead to charges if carried concealed without justification. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. While Alabama prohibits wearing masks to conceal identity for a crime, the attorney general stated the law would not be enforced for COVID-related mask use. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | LEOs and qualified retired LEOs may carry nationwide under LEOSA. Alabama does not have a central LEOSA certification body. You must check with your agency or local departments for qualification procedures. |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
