Free to Carry Concealed
The Grand Canyon State stands out in the firearms world for its robust support of the Second Amendment. Concealed carry laws Arizona enforces are known for being some of the most permissive in the nation, with a long-standing commitment to personal freedom and self-defense.
If you’re curious about what it means to carry in Arizona—from open carry and permitless options to location restrictions and reciprocity—this guide has you covered. We’ll also explore concealed carry training options and compare Arizona’s rules to CCW requirements by state nationwide so you can stay informed and prepared.
Table of Contents
Arizona’s Gun Law Basics
Shall-Issue and Permitless Carry
Arizona is both a shall-issue and permitless carry state. That means:
- Shall-Issue: The Department of Public Safety (DPS) must issue a concealed weapons permit (CWP) to any qualified applicant.
- Permitless Carry: Any U.S. citizen or lawful resident at least 21 years old can carry a concealed firearm without a permit, provided they can legally possess a firearm.
Essentially, you don’t need a permit to carry concealed in most everyday situations if you’re 21 or older. However, a permit can still offer benefits like interstate reciprocity or streamlined background checks when purchasing additional firearms.
Who Can Buy & Carry?
- Minimum age to buy from a private individual: 18 (must be able to legally own a firearm)
- Minimum age to buy from a federally licensed dealer: 21 (must be able to legally own a firearm)
- Minimum age for open carry: 18 (must be able to legally own a firearm)
- Minimum age for concealed carry (permitless): 21 (or 19 for active military and veterans if seeking a permit)
Arizona does not require firearms registration or impose waiting periods on gun purchases, making it relatively simple for law-abiding citizens to acquire firearms.
Why Get a Permit if Permitless Carry Is Allowed?
Because concealed carry laws Arizona has on the books allow carrying without a permit, you might wonder whether a permit is worthwhile. Many responsible gun owners still opt for a permit to enjoy:
- Reciprocity: A CWP is recognized in other states that honor Arizona’s concealed carry license. This becomes crucial when comparing CCW requirements by state if you plan to travel.
- Background Check Exemptions: Arizona’s permit can speed up future firearm purchases by exempting you from certain background checks.
- Extended Carry Benefits: A permit allows you to carry in some places and in ways that might be off-limits to those without a permit. For instance, those under age 21 must have their firearm in plain view if they’re carrying in a vehicle. A permit waives that requirement.
To apply, you must be at least 21 (or 19 for active military/veterans), be a U.S. citizen or resident, and complete an approved concealed carry training course or meet an exemption such as military service.
Open Carry in Arizona
Open carry is legal for anyone at least 18 years old who can lawfully own a firearm. In addition, there’s no registration or special license required. However, certain locations—such as schools and posted liquor stores—remain off-limits, and you must always respect private property owners who forbid firearms on their premises.
Carrying in Various Locations
Vehicles
- Any lawful firearm owner 21 or older may carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle.
- If you’re under 21, the gun must be in plain view from outside the vehicle unless you have a CWP.
Bars & Restaurants
- You can conceal carry in establishments that serve alcohol if you do not consume alcohol and there’s no sign prohibiting weapons.
- Arizona law has some contradictory wording, but the standard practice is: if a place posts “no firearms” or if you plan to drink, leave your gun behind.
Employee Parking Lots
- Employers typically cannot forbid you from having a locked, hidden firearm in your vehicle.
- Exceptions apply if the parking area is fenced, guarded, or specifically designated as a secure zone with alternative parking provided.
Public Places & Events
- By law, “no weapons” signage carries legal weight: if a public event or private business requests you remove your firearm, you must comply or face trespassing charges.
- Polling places, correctional facilities, and nuclear or hydroelectric stations are also off-limits.
State & National Parks/Wildlife Areas
Concealed carry is generally allowed, except in buildings with posted prohibitions or in federal offices located within such parks.
Tribal Lands
- Rules vary widely among tribes, and many reservations require special permission or prohibit firearms altogether. Always contact tribal authorities before traveling through tribal land with a firearm.
Self-Defense and Use of Force
Arizona’s Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground
Concealed carry laws Arizona has put in place align with strong self-defense protections:
- Self-Defense: You can use force if you believe it’s immediately necessary to defend yourself or someone else from unlawful physical force.
- Deadly Force: Allowed when a reasonable person believes it’s needed to prevent grave crimes like murder, kidnapping, or serious bodily harm.
- No Duty to Retreat: If you’re lawfully present and not engaged in criminal activity, you don’t have to retreat before using deadly force to protect yourself.
Defense of Property
You may use force to stop theft or criminal damage to property, but deadly force is limited to situations where you must protect yourself or another person from an imminent deadly threat.
Civil Immunity
Arizona law typically shields individuals from civil liability if their use of force was justified under the law, giving responsible gun owners significant peace of mind.
For general information on self-defense laws, we list a number of excellent resources that you can see in our online resources section.
Concealed Carry Training and Exemptions
Though not required to carry concealed, formal concealed carry training provides crucial benefits:
- Familiarity with Local Laws: Training includes Arizona Revised Statutes, ensuring you know your rights and restrictions.
- Safe Handling & Confidence: Firearms safety, practice at the range, and legal knowledge all reduce the odds of accidental missteps.
- Reciprocity Gains: Most states that recognize Arizona’s permit require proof of firearms competence, which you’ll gain from approved training courses.
Exemptions exist for military veterans, active-duty personnel, retired law enforcement, or anyone who has completed certain recognized firearms safety programs. Proving your proficiency can help you get a CWP without additional classes.
Comparing CCW Requirements by State
Arizona’s laws might seem straightforward, but CCW requirements by state vary tremendously. For instance, some states require extensive training, impose waiting periods, or have universal background checks for private sales. Arizona’s “shall-issue plus permitless” system stands in contrast to more restrictive jurisdictions. If you travel, always verify the destination’s current firearms rules—one oversight could result in serious legal trouble. Fortunately, Arizona’s CWP is widely recognized, making it a strong asset for interstate travel.
Applying for a Permit
If you do choose to apply for an Arizona concealed weapons permit:
- Complete Training or Qualify for an Exemption (e.g., existing permit from another state with similar standards).
- Get Fingerprinted: You’ll need two fingerprint cards completed on FBI form FD-258.
- Submit Application & Fees: Include a copy of your training certificate, proof of citizenship or lawful residency, and a driver’s license or state ID.
- Processing: You’ll hear back within about 75 days.
Permits last 5 years, after which you can renew them up to 90 days before they expire or 60 days after.
Staying Within the Law
Signs & Brandishing
- If a store or event posts “No Firearms,” you must honor that.
- “Brandishing” isn’t specifically named in Arizona statutes, but showing or threatening someone with a firearm without legal justification can be considered disorderly conduct or assault.
Duty to Inform
Arizona does not require you to disclose that you’re carrying a concealed handgun to law enforcement unless asked. However, it’s probably wise to let them know if they are going to see it anyway.
Final Thoughts - Policing the Brass
When it comes to firearms freedoms, concealed carry laws Arizona leads the pack with straightforward permitless carry and robust self-defense doctrines. Even so, knowledge remains your best weapon. Stay current on local rules, practice safe gun handling, and consider the benefits of obtaining a permit if you frequently travel or want to streamline future purchases. Coupled with sensible concealed carry training, you’ll be well-prepared to protect yourself and your loved ones—legally and responsibly—in the Grand Canyon State.
For a detailed list of CCW related laws, you can visit HandgunLaw.us for more information on concealed carry laws in Arizona.
Concealed Carry Laws Arizona: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Arizona? | Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Arizona. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Arizona is a shall-issue, permitless carry state. The Department of Public Safety issues Concealed Weapons Permits (CWPs) but no permit is required to concealed carry for anyone 21+ who can legally own a firearm. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Arizona? | Yes. Any adult 18+ who can legally possess a firearm may open carry without a permit in Arizona. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Arizona? | Yes. They are legal to purchase and possess without a permit. A government-issued ID is required for purchase. K-12 students need permission before possession on school property or buses. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Arizona with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry)? | Yes. Arizona’s permit covers firearms and “deadly weapons,” which includes items designed for lethal use. This broad category goes beyond handguns. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Arizona have ammunition restrictions? | No. Arizona does not have any specific ammunition restrictions. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Arizona have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. There are no magazine capacity limits in Arizona. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Arizona to get a concealed carry permit? | You must be at least 21 years old to receive a CWP. Permitless concealed carry also requires you to be 21. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | Yes. Arizona allows permitless carry for any legal gun owner 21+. |
Carry Location Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Arizona? | Concealed carry is allowed with or without a permit unless posted. However, you cannot consume alcohol, and the bar or restaurant may prohibit firearms. Statutes have some contradictions: ARS §§ 4-229(A), 4-244(29)-(31) reference no permit needed vs. requiring one. In general, do not consume alcohol and abide by posted signs. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas? | Yes, unless otherwise prohibited by federal law in certain buildings. Generally, Arizona defers to state/federal restrictions on specific posted areas. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Arizona? | Yes, for those 21+. If you’re 18-20, the firearm must be in plain view unless you’re lawfully engaged in certain restricted activities. [ARS § 13-3102(A)(2)&(H)] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Arizona? | Arizona statutes don’t specifically address hotels, so each hotel sets its own policy. Check with the hotel about firearm policies. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Arizona? | Yes. Nothing in Arizona statutes prohibits concealed carry at rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does the state have laws about storing firearms in vehicles at an employee parking lot? | Yes. Firearms must be locked, out of sight. Employers cannot ban employees from storing firearms if the vehicle is locked, and the owner may lawfully possess the weapon. Exceptions apply to restricted access areas, employer-owned vehicles, or secured facilities. [ARS § 12-781] |
Key State Laws
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does Arizona allow public to view concealed carry registry information? | No. It’s not open to the public, but law enforcement can access it. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Must you notify law enforcement if you’re armed? | No. There is no duty to inform unless an officer asks. [ARS § 13-3102] |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Arizona have a red flag law? | No. Arizona does not currently have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are these signs enforced in Arizona? | Yes. Entering or remaining with a firearm after being asked to remove it is a misdemeanor (misconduct with a weapon). Private property owners can also charge trespassing if you refuse to leave. [ARS § 13-3102 & § 13-1502/1503] |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Arizona? | Tribal rules vary widely. Many prohibit concealed firearms without explicit tribal permission. Check each tribe’s regulations. Failing to comply can lead to confiscation or prosecution. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? What does Arizona law say about carrying while under the influence? | You may not consume alcohol while armed in a bar. Generally, carrying under the influence is unwise and could lead to criminal charges if you brandish or use the firearm unlawfully. [ARS § 4-244(31)] |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Arizona issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Yes. Non-residents can apply. Arizona does not differentiate between resident and non-resident permits. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Arizona define brandishing? | No. However, displaying a firearm in a threatening manner can be disorderly conduct or aggravated assault. Arizona law does protect “defensive display” if justified. [ARS §§ 13-2904, 13-421] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO PERMIT? Is an Arizona driver’s license linked to a concealed weapons permit? | No. They are not automatically linked. Law enforcement may access other records to see if you have a permit. |
| PREEMPTION? Does Arizona have preemption for firearm laws? | Yes. The state legislature has exclusive authority to regulate firearms. Local governments may only pass limited ordinances. Violations can result in penalties up to $50,000 for the municipality. [ARS § 13-3108] |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after buying a handgun in Arizona? | No. There is no waiting period in Arizona. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? If I have a permit, does it waive background checks in Arizona? | No. Only certain Arizona permits (marked NICS exempt) are recognized for bypassing federal background checks within Arizona. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Do I need a permit to buy a handgun in Arizona? | No. Arizona does not require purchase permits. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are private gun sales in Arizona subject to background checks? | No. Arizona law does not require background checks for private firearm transfers, but federal prohibitions still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age for possessing and transporting a handgun in Arizona? | 18. Anyone under 18 needs written parental consent unless engaged in certain lawful activities (like hunting or training). [ARS § 13-3109] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I keep a handgun at home without a permit? | Yes. Arizona is permitless carry. You can keep/carry a firearm on your private property without a permit. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Arizona? | No. Arizona does not require firearm registration. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF ARIZONA HONOR? | Arizona honors concealed carry permits from all states. Since Arizona has permitless carry for those 21+, no permit is needed. For reciprocity details, check local laws in the state you are visiting. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF ARIZONA? | The following states specifically honor Arizona permits:
Note: Some states only honor resident permits or have restrictions; always check their laws. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF ARIZONA? | Certain states require the AZ permit holder be a resident, or they have other conditions. These include:
|
WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES?
| STATE | AGE RESTRICTION/NOTES |
|---|---|
| Alabama | (permitless carry, at least 19 years old) |
| Alaska | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Arkansas | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Florida | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Georgia | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Idaho | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Indiana | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Iowa | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Kansas | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Kentucky | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Louisiana | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Maine | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Mississippi | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Missouri | (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military) |
| Montana | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Nebraska | (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| New Hampshire | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| North Dakota | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Ohio | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Oklahoma | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| South Carolina | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| South Dakota | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Tennessee | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Texas | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Utah | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Vermont | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| West Virginia | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Wyoming | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Fill out the necessary form (Change Name/Address form), mark it for lost/stolen, include a fee ($10), and mail it to the permit unit. A new permit with a new number will be issued. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Arizona CWPs are valid for 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | You can request a packet from DPS via email or download from the AZDPS website. The completed forms must be mailed along with fingerprints, training certificate, and fee. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Arizona does not differentiate between resident and non-resident permits. The process is the same for both. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF ARIZONA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you relocate out of state, you may keep your AZ permit until it expires, provided you update your address with AZ DPS. The permit isn’t transferrable to another state’s system. You may apply for an Arizona permit once you establish residency. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | New permit: $60 Renewal: $43 Replacement (lost/stolen/name change): $10 |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has up to 75 days to process applications. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Complete a Change Name/Address form, submit it to DPS with the applicable fee if a new card is needed ($10). If only updating an address in DPS records, no fee is required. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | – 21+ years old (19+ for active military/veterans) – Legally entitled to possess firearms – Completion of an AZ-approved firearms class or meet an exemption – No outstanding felony indictments or certain misdemeanor convictions – Meet federal requirements |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Complete firearms training or qualify for an exemption. 2. Request or download DPS packet. 3. Provide proof of training, fingerprints, application form, and fee. 4. Mail to AZ DPS. 5. Wait up to 75 days. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Applicants must show competence with a firearm via a DPS-approved class, or qualify via law enforcement/military exemptions, or show a valid permit from another state with training. The list of accepted training is on the DPS website. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | – DPS no longer sends renewal notices – Download & submit a renewal form up to 90 days before expiration – Fee: $43 – If expired more than 60 days, must apply anew |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Restaurants serving alcohol (unless posted, do not drink alcohol) – Your personal vehicle – Roadside rest areas – State/national parks, forests, WMAs (except in certain buildings) – Places of worship (unless privately prohibited) |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – K-12 school grounds/buses (with limited vehicle exceptions) – Bars serving alcohol if posted or if you consume alcohol – Polling places on election day – Nuclear/hydroelectric stations – Secure federal/state buildings – Indian reservations (varies by tribe) – Game preserves – Other posted private properties or events |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It’s illegal to intentionally interfere with a lawful hunt or wildlife taking. [ARS 17-316 A] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may concealed carry a handgun while hunting if used for self-defense, not to illegally take game. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, you may concealed carry for protection only. The firearm cannot be used to harvest animals except as otherwise allowed by law. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Generally, any knife is legal. Knives are considered “deadly weapons,” so the same laws about carrying lethal weapons apply. Under 21 cannot carry concealed in a vehicle without meeting certain lawful activity exceptions. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Arizona has no specific law against wearing a mask while armed, but using a mask to aid criminal acts can lead to enhanced charges. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Arizona law allows retired officers to obtain LEOSA credentials. Arizona LE can also carry under the state’s permitless system, but traveling beyond AZ may need LEOSA or a CWP for reciprocity. |
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.
