One of the Most Restrictive
Concealed carry is a serious responsibility—especially in a state with strict regulations like Connecticut. Whether you’re curious about concealed carry laws Connecticut implements, seeking concealed carry training, or comparing CCW requirements by state, you’ll find answers here.
In this guide, we’ll walk through Connecticut’s permit system, discuss recent changes on open carry, and explore exactly where and how you can carry. Read on to navigate these laws confidently and responsibly.
Table of Contents
May-Issue Status & Two-Step Permit Process
Connecticut is a may-issue state. Unlike shall-issue states, local authorities here have discretion when deciding if an applicant is “suitable.” This discretion can affect both first-time permits and renewals.
Temporary Permit:
- Begin locally by submitting an application at your police department, town hall, or first selectman’s office (or the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection if you’re a non-resident).
- Upon approval, you’ll receive a 60-day Temporary State Permit (also called an “Eligibility Certificate”).
Five-Year Permit:
- With your temporary permit in hand, visit a Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) office.
- After meeting further requirements—like proof of lawful presence in the U.S. and paying fees—you may receive a five-year Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP).
Note: The local authority can still deny or revoke your permit if they decide you do not meet “suitability” standards.
Handgun Purchases & Other Key Requirements
Anyone wishing to buy a handgun in Connecticut faces additional steps:
Pistol Permit or Eligibility Certificate:
You must have a valid CTPP, a Certificate of Eligibility for Pistols and Revolvers, or an Ammunition Certificate. This also applies if you buy a handgun from a private seller—transfers must go through a federally licensed dealer with a background check.
One-Handgun-Per-30-Days Rule:
Effective October 1, 2023, you can no longer purchase more than three handguns in 30 days (or six if you’re a certified instructor). Of course, certain exceptions exist for law enforcement, antiques, and other unique circumstances.
Magazine Limits:
Connecticut caps most magazines at 10 rounds. Possessing or buying a magazine above 10 rounds can be a felony unless you legally owned it before January 1, 2014.
Goodbye, Open Carry, Hello Tyranny: October 2023 Changes
A significant change took effect on October 1, 2023—open carry is now illegal in nearly all public settings. You may still keep a visible firearm in your home, on your property, or in a business you own. Everywhere else, you must carry concealed if you hold a valid permit. This shift marks a crucial difference in concealed carry laws Connecticut that many out-of-state gun owners might miss.
Carrying a Firearm in a Vehicle
Under Connecticut law, carrying a handgun in a vehicle is restricted to those with a valid Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP). Here’s what you need to know:
With a Valid Pistol Permit:
You may keep your handgun loaded and concealed on your person or within the vehicle. However, the firearm must remain out of sight if you exit, and the vehicle should be locked if you leave it unattended.
Without a Valid Pistol Permit:
You must transport your handgun unloaded, and the firearm and ammunition must be in separate, locked containers. There is no lawful way to conceal carry in a vehicle if you lack a permit.
Unattended Vehicles (As of October 1, 2019):
Any handgun stored in an unattended vehicle must be locked in a trunk, locked glove box, or locked safe. If you drive a pickup truck without a trunk, a locked toolbox or utility box affixed to the vehicle is permissible. Failing to secure your firearm properly can result in legal consequences.
Where You Can (and Can’t) Carry Concealed
With a valid CTPP, you can generally carry concealed in most public areas—unless:
The Location Forbids Firearms:
Private property owners can post signs or otherwise announce “No Weapons.” Violating these signs can lead to a Class E felony.
Schools or School Functions:
Public or private elementary and secondary school properties and events are off-limits for firearms.
Government Buildings & Parks:
State legislative buildings and offices where the General Assembly meets are off-limits. Also, carrying for self-defense is not permitted in most state or national parks, forests, or wildlife management areas unless actively hunting with the correct license in the proper season.
Other Prohibited Areas:
- Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Lands (no carry allowed).
- Mohegan Tribal Lands (carry only with a valid Connecticut permit and tribal permission).
- Local towns might have their own ordinances, given Connecticut lacks broad preemption.
Self-Defense: Castle Doctrine with a Twist
Connecticut does have a Castle Doctrine embedded in its statutes, but it’s limited. You’re not required to retreat if you’re in your home against an unlawful intruder. Outside your home, however, you must retreat if it’s safe to do so.
Defense of Premises:
You can use reasonable force to prevent a criminal trespass. Deadly force is only justified if you believe the trespasser is committing a violent felony, threatening a person, or attempting arson.
Defense of Person:
Deadly force is allowed only if you reasonably believe another person is using or is about to use deadly force against you or a third person. Otherwise, you’re limited to non-deadly force.
These limits highlight why concealed carry training is essential. Knowing how to respond in split-second self-defense situations can save lives and ensure you remain within the law. We maintain a legal education resources section that you can view here for more general legal education about self-defense and firearms law.
Suitability & Renewals
Because Connecticut is may-issue, your behavior and background can impact your “suitability.” Law enforcement has broad authority to revoke a permit if they believe you no longer meet their “moral” or legal criteria. Renewals occur every five years:
- You’ll receive a letter 90 days before expiration.
- You can renew by mail or in person at DESPP headquarters.
- No additional firearm course is required if your permit has not expired beyond 90 days. But stay alert to any new laws or guidelines that might arise.
Comparing CCW Requirements by State
Out-of-staters often wonder how concealed carry laws Connecticut measures up against CCW requirements by state elsewhere. Key points include:
- Reciprocity: Connecticut honors no out-of-state permits. Non-residents, however, can apply for a Connecticut Pistol Permit if they already hold a license from another recognized U.S. jurisdiction.
- Strict Purchase Rules: Connecticut’s laws are far more stringent than states with “constitutional carry,” requiring robust background checks, eligibility certificates, and strict magazine capacity limits.
- Vehicle Carry: Without a permit, you cannot legally carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle.
Why Concealed Carry Training Matters
In a state with tight restrictions, a thorough concealed carry training program from a second amendment friendly instructor is vital—not only for meeting legal standards but also for ensuring you know your rights and responsibilities. Connecticut demands in-person, live-fire training on a semi-automatic pistol or revolver. Simulations or online-only courses won’t suffice.
Training helps you:
- Understand lawful self-defense limits.
- Practice safe handling and accurate shooting.
- Stay updated on evolving gun laws and local regulations.
Understand that in states like Connecticut, you may have done everything right, but you could still end up charged if the “facts of the case” look “bad”.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Compliant
Of all CCW requirements by state, concealed carry laws Connecticut are among the most restrictive and nuanced. From a formal two-step permit application to the new open-carry ban, it’s crucial to keep current on local, state, and even tribal restrictions. By investing in the correct training and remaining vigilant about where and how you carry—especially when traveling with a firearm in your vehicle—you’ll be able to exercise your Second Amendment rights responsibly and within the law.
For more details on specific laws and statutes, HandgunLaw.us maintains a cheat sheet that you can download here for concealed carry laws Connecticut.
Concealed Carry Laws Connecticut: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Connecticut? | Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Connecticut. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If Connecticut requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Connecticut is a may-issue state, meaning local authorities have some discretion (the “suitability clause”) when issuing concealed carry permits (Pistol Permits). |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Connecticut? | No. As of October 1st, 2023, no person shall knowingly carry any firearm openly, except in your home, on your land, or at a business you own. A valid Connecticut Pistol Permit is required to carry a handgun, and it must be concealed. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Connecticut? | Yes. Effective July 1, 2021, persons 21+ with a valid firearms credential (e.g., Pistol Permit) may possess an “electronic defense weapon” like a stun gun. Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann § 53-206 |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Connecticut with a concealed carry permit? | No. Connecticut’s permit covers handguns only (pistols or revolvers). |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Connecticut have ammunition restrictions? | Yes. Armor-piercing/incendiary .50-caliber ammo is prohibited. Buyers must have a Pistol Permit, Eligibility Certificate, or Ammo Certificate to purchase ammunition. Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 29-38m(c), 53-202l(a) |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Connecticut have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | Yes. Over 10 rounds is prohibited unless lawfully possessed prior to January 1, 2014 (grandfathered). Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53-202w |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Connecticut to get a concealed carry permit? | 21 years old. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does Connecticut allow constitutional carry? | No, Connecticut does not allow constitutional (permitless) carry. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Connecticut? | Yes, with a valid CT Pistol Permit, unless posted. Connecticut law does not prohibit carry in places serving alcohol. However, you cannot carry while under the influence. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks or WMAs? | Generally no for self-defense. Firearms are allowed only while actively hunting (with the correct permit and in season) on state forest/park land or for the Appalachian Trail and Weir Farm National Historical Park with a valid CT Pistol Permit. Conn. Admin. Rule § 23-4-1(c) |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Connecticut? | Yes, only with a valid CT Pistol Permit. Otherwise, the firearm must be unloaded and locked separately from ammo. A new law requires that if leaving a pistol/revolver in an unattended vehicle, it must be in a locked trunk or locked safe/glove box. Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 29-38d |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Connecticut? | Each hotel may set their own policy. A valid permit doesn’t override a private property ban. Confirm with hotel management about firearms rules. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 29-28(e) |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Connecticut? | Yes, with a valid CT Pistol Permit. Nothing in the statutes specifically prohibits it. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does Connecticut have laws about storing firearms in private vehicles in employee parking lots? | Not addressed in Connecticut law. Employers may have their own policies. You must follow safe storage rules in vehicles. |
KEY STATE LAWS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does Connecticut allow the public to access concealed carry registry information? | No, the registry is not publicly accessible; only law enforcement may access it. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Do you have to tell a police officer you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Connecticut? | No, there is no legal duty to inform an officer. However, you must carry your permit and produce it if asked. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Connecticut have a red flag law? | Yes. Law enforcement, prosecutors, family/household members can petition a court to remove firearms if someone poses a risk. This includes ammunition as well. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 29-38c(a) |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are such signs enforced in Connecticut? | Yes. A property owner can prohibit firearms. Violating the sign or refusal to leave is a class E felony. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 29-28 |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Connecticut? | Mashantucket Pequot Tribe – No Mohegan Indian Tribe – Allowed only if you have a valid CT permit & tribal authorization. Always confirm with the specific tribe. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Any laws on carrying while under the influence? | Illegal to carry a firearm while under the influence of alcohol (BAC ≥ 0.08) or drugs. Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53-206d |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Connecticut issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Yes, if you hold a valid license/permit from a recognized U.S. jurisdiction. You must apply directly to the CT DESPP. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Connecticut law define brandishing? | No. However, threatening use of a firearm can be charged as disorderly conduct, breach of peace, or threatening. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my Connecticut driver’s license linked to my CT pistol permit? | Yes. If an officer runs your driver’s license, they will see your pistol permit status. |
| PREEMPTION? Does Connecticut have statewide preemption of firearms laws? | No. Municipalities may enact additional restrictions, as there is no full state preemption. |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period to buy a handgun in Connecticut? | No specific statutory waiting period, but background checks and permit processes can result in delays. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a permit exempt me from a check in Connecticut? | You must have a Connecticut permit or certificate, and all purchases require an authorization number from the DESPP. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to buy a handgun in Connecticut? | Yes. A Connecticut Pistol Permit or an Eligibility Certificate for Pistols is required to purchase a handgun from any source. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Does Connecticut require checks for private firearms sales? | Yes. All transfers must go through an FFL or state authorization process with a background check. Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 29-36l |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess/transport a handgun in Connecticut? | 21 is the minimum age to get a Pistol Permit. Those under 21 generally may not possess handguns. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I have/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? | Yes, you can possess a handgun in your home or place of business without a permit, but any transport outside requires a valid credential. Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 29-37 |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Connecticut? | No formal “registration,” but the DESPP maintains records of all handgun transfers. A sale or transfer requires an authorization number and recorded data. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES CONNECTICUT HONOR? | None. Connecticut does not honor any other state’s permits. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH CONNECTICUT? | The following states will honor a Connecticut permit (with conditions):
“PC-18” means permitless carry at 18. “PC-19” means permitless at 19, etc. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH CONNECTICUT? |
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Alabama (PC-19), Alaska (PC-21), Arizona (PC-21), Arkansas (PC-18), Florida (PC-21), Georgia (PC-21), Idaho (PC-18), Indiana (PC-18), Iowa (PC-21), Kansas (PC-21), Kentucky (PC-21), Louisiana (PC-21), Maine (PC-21), Mississippi (PC-21), Missouri (PC-19, 18 for military), Montana (PC-18), Nebraska (PC-21), New Hampshire (PC-18), North Dakota (PC-18), Ohio (PC-21), Oklahoma (PC-21), South Carolina (PC-18), South Dakota (PC-18), Tennessee (PC-18), Texas (PC-21), Utah (PC-21), Vermont (PC-18), West Virginia (PC-21), Wyoming (PC-21). *PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old *PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | File a police report in the relevant jurisdiction. Then notify the issuing authority (local or state) and pay a fee ($5) for a duplicate permit. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Temporary Permit Application (DPS-799-C) See also DESPP Special Licensing & Firearms |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes, to individuals who hold a valid permit/license from a recognized U.S. jurisdiction. Must apply to Connecticut DESPP. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF CONNECTICUT AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Moving to Connecticut? You can apply for a resident permit at your local authority first (temporary) then at DESPP. Moving away from CT? Your CT permit remains valid until expiration if you maintain renewal and update address with Special Licensing and Firearms Unit. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | $105 total: $35 local temporary + $70 for state permit. Additional fees apply for fingerprints/background checks. Renewal fee is $70. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The local issuing authority has 8 weeks to process the temporary permit. The state has 8 weeks for the permanent permit. So up to 16 weeks total. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Notify issuing authority within 48 hours of changes. You must do so in writing or via phone/email as directed by DESPP. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • At least 21 years old • U.S. citizen or legal resident • Complete an approved handgun safety course • Pass background checks / “suitable person” test • Not disqualified by felony or serious misdemeanors |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Complete state-approved safety course 2. Apply locally for a 60-day temporary permit 3. Submit that plus docs to DESPP for 5-year permit 4. Pay fees, pass background checks |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Must pass a “Basic pistol course” with live-fire supervised by a certified instructor. Online-only courses not accepted. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | • 90 days prior to expiration, DESPP mails a renewal letter • Renew in person or by mail with DPS-129-C • Pay $70 renewal fee |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • Restaurants serving alcohol (if not posted) • Roadside rest areas • Private property (with owner permission) • Certain national park areas (e.g. Weir Farm) with a valid permit • Not in locations that specifically prohibit firearms |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? |
|
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It’s illegal to interfere with lawful hunting/fishing by another person at the activity location. Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a-183a |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Firearms are only allowed while actively engaged in permitted hunting with correct license, season, and firearms/ammo for species. Carrying a pistol for self-defense while bow or gun hunting is not allowed unless it is the legal method of take. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | No. Possession of a firearm while archery hunting is not permitted. CT DEEP 2019 Guide |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | • Switchblades over 1.5″ & certain other dangerous knives are banned for carry • Blades over 4″ are heavily restricted • Various local rules also apply |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY CONCEALED? | There is no law banning wearing a COVID mask while carrying. However, wearing a mask to deprive someone’s rights or conceal identity for a criminal act is illegal. Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53-37a |
| ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Under LEOSA, qualified current/retired LEOs can carry nationwide. CT State Police provides limited retiree qualification for out-of-state LEOs residing in CT. |
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.
