Part of the Growing Constitutional Carry Movement
If you’re looking to explore the concealed carry laws Arkansas enforces, you’ve come to the right place. Arkansas is well-known for its pro-Second Amendment stance, allowing adults who meet certain criteria to carry a firearm both openly and concealed without a license. At the same time, the state offers optional permits for those seeking additional privileges and travel reciprocity. This article will walk you through everything you need to know, including concealed carry training requirements and how Arkansas stacks up against CCW requirements by state across the country.
Table of Contents
Arkansas at a Glance: A Shall-Issue, Permitless Carry State
Arkansas follows a shall-issue framework but also embraces permitless carry for qualified individuals:
- Shall-Issue: If you apply for a Concealed Handgun Carry License (CHCL) and meet the criteria, Arkansas will issue the license.
- Permitless Carry: Any adult who can legally possess a firearm and is at least 18 years old may lawfully carry concealed while “on a journey,” meaning outside their home or property, provided there’s no unlawful intent.
Although you don’t need a license to carry concealed, many Arkansans still choose to get one for travel convenience and additional privileges, which we’ll explore in detail.
Open vs. Concealed Carry in Arkansas
Open Carry:
- Permitted for anyone at least 18 years old who can legally own a gun.
- You may openly carry in most public areas, with specific exceptions like schools, certain government buildings, and posted private property.
Concealed Carry:
- Anyone 18 or older can carry concealed without a license if they are “on a journey” and have no intention of using the firearm unlawfully.
- Obtaining a CHCL is still beneficial, especially for reciprocity and more extensive carry rights in certain restricted areas.
Two Types of Concealed Handgun Carry Licenses
CHCL (Concealed Handgun Carry License):
- Minimum Age: 21 (or 18 if actively serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard, or honorably discharged).
- Residency Requirement: You must have been an Arkansas resident for at least 90 days, unless you’re military stationed in Arkansas.
- Training: A basic 5-hour course covering Arkansas firearm laws, safe handling, self-defense, and live-fire proficiency.
Enhanced CHCL (E-CHCL):
- Requires an additional 8 hours of classroom time and gun-range training on top of the regular CHCL course.
- Grants expanded carry options, allowing holders to bring firearms into public colleges, some publicly owned facilities, churches, certain airport areas, and more (unless posted).
- You must demonstrate shooting competency and in-depth knowledge of the laws around these “sensitive places.”
Why Get a License in a Permitless State?
Even though concealed carry laws Arkansas generally allow adults to carry without a permit, there are good reasons to obtain a CHCL or E-CHCL:
- Expanded Carry Locations: Enhanced license holders can legally carry in areas that are off-limits for permitless carriers.
- Reciprocity: Arkansas CHCL holders can lawfully carry in many other states, depending on CCW requirements by state.
- Background Check Exemption: Having a valid license exempts you from a new background check when purchasing firearms at federally licensed dealers.
Self-Defense, Castle Doctrine, and “Stand Your Ground”
Arkansas law supports robust self-defense rights:
- Castle Doctrine: You have the right to protect yourself and others against harm in your home without a duty to retreat.
- Stand Your Ground: As of March 2021, Arkansans have no obligation to retreat before using force if they are in a lawful place and believe deadly force is immediately necessary to prevent serious injury or death.
Using deadly force is justified if you reasonably believe that another person is committing or about to commit a violent felony, is using unlawful deadly force, or in situations of domestic abuse. Always ensure you’re not the initial aggressor and not engaged in any criminal activity.
For general information on self-defense laws, we list a number of excellent resources that you can see in our online resources section.
Places Off-Limits and Location Restrictions
While Arkansas is relatively lenient about where you can carry, there are specific restricted areas:
- Schools (K-12) and Daycare Facilities: Firearms are off-limits, although you may keep a handgun secured in a vehicle.
- Bars and Bar Areas of Restaurants: Concealed carry is banned where primary alcohol service occurs, even for license holders.
- Courtrooms, Detention Facilities, and Certain Government Buildings: Prohibited unless you are specially authorized.
- Posted “No Weapons” Sites: If a business or property owner posts a sign banning firearms, you must comply or risk trespassing charges.
- Private Residences: You must inform the occupant of your concealed firearm and gain permission before entering.
Enhanced License Bonus:
With the Enhanced CHCL, you can legally carry in additional areas, such as public colleges, government buildings not used for court proceedings, and certain airport terminals. However, you still must watch for “No Weapons” signage and respect all federal restrictions.
Transporting or Storing Firearms in Vehicles
Regardless of whether you have a license:
- Permitless Carry in Vehicles: Allowed if you are 18 or older, lawfully own the firearm, and have no criminal intent.
- Employee Parking Lots: Employers cannot generally prohibit license holders from storing a handgun out of sight in a locked vehicle, though exceptions apply to certain secure areas.
Reciprocity and Traveling with Firearms
Arkansas recognizes permits from all other states, extending a warm welcome to traveling gun owners. Conversely, if you hold an Arkansas CHCL, you can carry concealed in multiple states that honor the license. Always verify CCW requirements by state before you cross state lines to avoid legal missteps.
Concealed Carry Training and Renewal
Basic Training for CHCL:
- 5 hours of training, plus a live-fire test to ensure safe handling and accuracy.
Enhanced Training for E-CHCL:
- 8 or more hours covering advanced topics like active-shooter scenarios, laws for “sensitive places,” and additional proficiency drills.
- A live-fire assessment to demonstrate your competency.
Renewing Your License:
- Standard licenses last 5 years, and you must complete additional training (including live-fire) within six months before your license’s expiration date.
- If you upgrade to an E-CHCL, you’ll have a broader legal scope for carrying in more sensitive areas.
Summary: Carry with Confidence in the Natural State
Concealed carry laws Arkansas stands behind provide both freedom and structure, offering numerous options for gun owners—from simple permitless carry to advanced licensing with special privileges. Coupled with strong self-defense protections under Castle Doctrine and stand your ground, Arkansans enjoy a high level of Second Amendment support. Just remember:
- Understand the difference between open and concealed carry.
- Respect location restrictions and “No Weapons” signs.
- Follow any rules regarding private property, government buildings, and schools.
- Consider obtaining a CHCL or Enhanced CHCL to unlock broader carry privileges and enjoy easier travel.
- Invest in concealed carry training not only to meet Arkansas requirements but also to handle your firearm responsibly, especially if you plan to carry in other states with stricter CCW requirements by state.
With the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate Arkansas’ laws safely, responsibly, and confidently. If you are looking for a summary of the specific laws and statues, HandgunLaw.us maintains an archive of Arkansas laws that you can download here
Concealed Carry Laws Arkansas: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Arkansas? | Yes. Possessing a container of tear gas or pepper spray is legal for self-defense if the container is < 150cc. [Ark. Code § 5-73-124] |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Arkansas is a shall-issue state, with licenses issued by the Department of Public Safety. Arkansas also allows permitless carry for any legal firearm owner who is at least 18 years old (on a journey) and intends no unlawful purpose. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Arkansas? | Yes. Any person who is at least 18 and not prohibited can open carry without a license. [Ark. Code § 5-73-120(a)] |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Arkansas? | Yes. They are legal without a license. The minimum age to purchase is 19. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Arkansas with a concealed carry license (or permitless carry)? | No. The state’s concealed carry license is limited to handguns only. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Arkansas have ammunition restrictions? | No. Arkansas imposes no specific ammunition restrictions. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Arkansas have magazine capacity restrictions? | No. Arkansas does not limit magazine capacity. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Arkansas to get a concealed carry license? | 21 years old (or 18 if in the military, honorably discharged, or National Guard). |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does Arkansas allow constitutional carry? | Yes. Permitless carry is recognized for anyone 18+ who can lawfully possess a firearm and does not intend to use it unlawfully. |
Carry Location Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Arkansas? | Yes, if you have a concealed carry license, you may carry in the dining area of an eatery that serves alcohol, unless posted. Carry in the bar area is prohibited. [Ark. Code § 5-73-306(12)] |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas? | Yes. Note that you need an Enhanced CHCL to carry in certain state offices located in state parks. In federal parks, carry inside federal buildings is generally prohibited. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Arkansas? | Yes, permitless carry is allowed as long as you are “on a journey” (outside your home/property) and do not intend unlawful use. A concealed carry license also authorizes carry in a vehicle. [Ark. Code § 5-73-120] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Arkansas? | State law doesn’t address hotels specifically. Each hotel sets its own policy; confirm with hotel management about firearms. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Arkansas? | Yes. There are no Arkansas statutes banning carry at rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Are there laws about storing firearms in a vehicle at an employee parking lot? | Yes. License holders may store a handgun locked in a private vehicle in a public lot, out of sight. Private employers cannot prohibit employees from storing firearms in locked cars, with exceptions for secured lots. [Ark. Code §§ 5-73-122(a)(3), 11-5-117] |
Key State Laws
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Can the public view concealed carry registry info in Arkansas? | No. This info is not publicly accessible, though law enforcement agencies may view it. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Must you notify an officer you’re carrying a concealed firearm? | Yes, for license holders: They must disclose upon request and show both ID and CHCL. No, for permitless carriers: No explicit requirement unless asked. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Arkansas have a red flag law? | No. Arkansas does not have a red flag law. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Arkansas define brandishing? | No. But disorderly conduct includes threatening, violent, or tumultuous behavior. Aggressive display of a firearm could be charged under assault or similar statutes. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES? Does Arkansas allow carry while under the influence? | Not directly addressed by statute. However, carrying while impaired can still lead to criminal consequences if you misuse or recklessly display the firearm. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does the state issue licenses to non-residents? | Yes, but only for military members stationed in Arkansas and their spouses. [Ark. Code § 5-7-309] |
| PREEMPTION? Does the state preempt local firearm laws? | Yes. Arkansas has full preemption. Cities/towns can only regulate the unsafe discharge of firearms. [Ark. Code §§ 14-16-504, 14-54-1411] |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are “No Weapons” signs enforced in Arkansas? | Yes. CHCL holders can’t carry into locations posted with “carrying a handgun is prohibited.” [Ark. Code § 5-73-306(18)] You must also notify a private home occupant if you intend to enter while armed. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after buying a handgun in Arkansas? | No. There is no waiting period. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a permit exempt me from a background check in Arkansas? | Yes, Arkansas permits may serve as a NICS exemption. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Are purchase permits required to buy a handgun in Arkansas? | No. No permit is required to purchase a handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are private sales subject to background checks? | No. No state requirement for private-transfer background checks, though federal prohibitions still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What’s the minimum age to possess or transport a handgun? | 18. Furnishing a handgun to minors without parental consent is illegal. [Ark. Code § 5-73-109] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A LICENSE? Can I keep a handgun at home without a license? | Yes. Anyone legally entitled may possess or carry at home. Permitless carry also extends beyond your home if you have no unlawful intent. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Does Arkansas require registering handguns? | No. Arkansas doesn’t register firearms. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF ARKANSAS HONOR? | Arkansas honors all other states’ licenses. Since Arkansas is permitless carry, out-of-staters may carry concealed if they’re not prohibited possessors and have no unlawful intent. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF ARKANSAS? | The following states honor Arkansas permits:
Always check local laws to confirm details. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF ARKANSAS? | Certain states require Arkansas licensees to be residents, or have conditions:
|
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) |
| Arizona | (permitless carry, at least 21 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? | Submit a notarized request for a replacement license, either online or by mail, to the Arkansas State Police. A replacement fee may apply. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | To apply or renew online, visit the Arkansas State Police CHCL portal. Paper forms can also be downloaded from the same site. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Only for active-duty military members stationed in Arkansas and their spouses. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF ARKANSAS AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you leave Arkansas, your CHCL expires once you establish residency in another state. If you move into Arkansas, you may apply after 90 days’ residency or under military exceptions. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | New CHCL (Age ≤ 64):
New CHCL (Age ≥ 65):
Renewals:
Late Renewal (<6 mos): + $15 Veterans/Active Duty: No license fees as of July 2021. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The Department of Arkansas State Police will process within 120 days of a complete application. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Submit the “Change of Address/Name Notification Form” to the Arkansas State Police by mail or email. No fee is required unless a new card is issued. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | – U.S. citizen or permanent resident – Age ≥ 21 (or ≥18 if military) – Resident 90 days or active-duty military – No felony convictions – Not habitually using drugs/alcohol – Completed firearms training – Meet federal eligibility |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Take state-approved CHCL training (5 hours). 2. Apply online or by paper within 6 months of training. 3. Get fingerprinted. 4. Submit fingerprints, fee, training certificate to AR State Police. 5. Await notification (up to 120 days). |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | 5-hour basic CHCL class, covering Arkansas law, firearms safety, self-defense principles, and live-fire training. Additional 8-hour “Enhanced” training for E-CHCL to carry in more sensitive areas. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1. Renew no earlier than 90 days before expiration. 2. Complete “live-fire” renewal training if required. 3. Submit online or mail-in renewal form, certificate, fees. 4. Licenses expired >6 months require a new application. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | CHCL holders: Anywhere not prohibited under § 5-73-306. Enhanced CHCL holders: Can carry in additional locations, such as public college campuses, most public buildings, non-secure airport areas, etc. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Public K-12 school property/buses – Certain posted firearm-sensitive places (e.g. Arkansas State Hospital) – Municipal parks with posted restrictions – Detention facilities/jails – Courthouses/courtrooms – Bars and bar areas of restaurants – Private property with posted “No Handguns” – Federal “gun-free” areas |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is unlawful to impede lawful hunting, fishing, or trapping. [Ark. F&G Commission Reg 05.37] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may carry a handgun for personal protection. It cannot be used to take game unless it is a legal hunting weapon under Commission rules. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, for self-defense only. Using the handgun to harvest animals is not allowed unless it’s otherwise a legal killing device. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Knives are generally legal. Possession is only illegal if there’s intent to use as a weapon unlawfully. [Ark. Code § 5-73-120] |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. Arkansas has no statute prohibiting wearing a mask while armed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Arkansas mirrors LEOSA under state law. Retired or active LEOs meeting certain requirements may carry concealed firearms anywhere in Arkansas (with few exceptions). Detailed in Ark. Code. Ann. § 12-15-202. |
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.
