Delaware Concealed Carry Laws Summarized
If you’re looking to understand concealed carry laws Delaware enforces, you’ve come to the right place. Delaware is a may-issue state where concealed carry is permitted for residents (and, in rare cases, non-residents) who meet specific guidelines.
Below, we’ll walk through the license application process, self-defense rules, and how concealed carry training fits into the bigger picture. Whether you’re researching CCW requirements by state or seeking clarity on local regulations, this guide will help you begin to navigate Delaware’s laws.
Table of Contents
May-Issue Status and Who Qualifies
Delaware stands apart from “shall-issue” states by giving local courts discretion in deciding who gets a concealed deadly weapon license (CDWL). Here are the basics:
- Application: Must be filed at the prothonotary’s office in the county where you live.
- References: You need five references from your county who can affirm you’re of good moral character and that carrying is necessary for your safety or property protection.
- Newspaper Publication: You must publish notice of your application once in a county newspaper at least 10 days before filing.
- May-Issue: Even if you meet all criteria, the court retains the right to deny your license if it decides you aren’t “suitable.”
Overview of Handgun Purchases
Currently, Delaware does not require a purchase permit. However:
- No License Needed to Buy (Yet): There’s no state handgun registration, but that changes around November 2025, when newly signed legislation requiring a permit to purchase becomes effective.
- Background Checks: Any private transfer to non-family must go through a licensed dealer. Transfers to someone with a valid Delaware CDWL are exempt.
- Magazine Capacity: Delaware limits magazines to a maximum of 17 rounds, unless you are military, law enforcement, or a licensed concealed carrier.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
Open Carry
- Legal for anyone 21 or older who can lawfully possess a firearm.
- Some local ordinances regulate open carry in public buildings and county facilities, requiring signs to be posted.
Concealed Carry
- Requires a Delaware Concealed Deadly Weapon License or a recognized out-of-state permit.
- Non-residents can sometimes receive a temporary license from the Attorney General if they demonstrate a short-term need related to employment.
Because Delaware is not a constitutional carry state, you must obtain the proper license to conceal carry.
Steps to Getting a Delaware CDWL
- Complete a Firearms Course: By law, concealed carry training must cover safe handling, child safety, live-fire with at least 100 rounds, relevant state and federal laws, and more.
- Publish Your Application: Place an ad in a local newspaper 10 days before filing.
- Fingerprints and References: You’ll need five references from your county who have known you for at least one year. Also, schedule a fingerprint session via Identgo within 45 days of filing.
- Submit Documents: Take your notarized application, affidavits, references, and proof of newspaper publication to the prothonotary’s office.
- Court Decision: If approved, you must finalize your concealed carry training within 90 days, then provide certification to the court.
Fees:
The application fee is $65. Once approved, your initial license is valid for three years. Renewals last five years.
Where You Can and Cannot Carry
Once you’re licensed (or rather if you can get one), you can generally carry concealed in most locations, unless posted or restricted by law. Key restrictions:
Off-Limits Areas:
- Prisons and detention facilities.
- University campuses.
- Any place prohibited by federal law (e.g., courthouses, certain federal buildings).
Allowed Areas (Unless Posted):
- Restaurants that serve alcohol, provided you’re not under the influence.
- Roadside rest areas.
- State and national parks (though some areas can be posted off-limits).
- Most hotels (policies vary, so always check beforehand).
Delaware Self-Defense and Castle Doctrine
Delaware recognizes a Castle Doctrine, which removes the duty to retreat at home or in your workplace. Outside these areas, you must retreat if you can do so safely. Important points:
- Use of Force: You may use force to protect against imminent threats (like kidnapping, serious physical injury, or forced sexual acts).
- Protection of Property: You can use reasonable force to prevent trespass, burglary, robbery, or arson. Deadly force is only allowed if you believe lesser force wouldn’t protect you or another person from serious harm.
- Civil Liability Shield: If you haven’t been convicted of a crime related to property defense, you’re typically free from civil suits by the criminal you acted against.
In our online shooter resources we maintain a dedicated section that has links to general second amendment legal education resources.
Vehicle Carry
Without a Delaware CDWL or recognized out-of-state permit, you must carry your handgun in plain view—such as on the seat or dashboard. Concealing it in the glove box or under the seat would violate concealed carry laws Delaware upholds. If you hold a valid license, you can keep your handgun concealed on your person or in the vehicle.
Non-Resident Licenses & Reciprocity
- Non-Resident Temporary Licenses: Issued if the Attorney General deems you have a short-term need, often for job-related purposes.
- Reciprocity: Delaware honors permits from states that recognize Delaware’s CDWL and maintain a standard similar to Delaware’s. On the flip side, states like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, and more honor a Delaware permit. Always check CCW requirements by state before traveling to ensure compliance.
Changes on the Horizon
Starting around November 2025, Delaware will require a purchase permit for firearms. This new law may affect your buying process, so stay informed of official updates. Meanwhile, watch for any additional local ordinances or posted buildings that could expand restrictions on carrying.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed and Train Diligently
Of all the CCW requirements by state, concealed carry laws Delaware can be intricate. Be sure to invest in comprehensive firearms training, not just to meet legal requirements but also to handle your handgun responsibly. With the right license, thorough knowledge of when and where you can carry, and a proper understanding of self-defense laws, you’ll be on your way to safe, confident firearm ownership in the First State.
For a full list of applicable Delaware state laws governing firearms, and additional details, HandgunLaw.us maintains a downloadable guide that you can access here.
Concealed Carry Laws Delaware: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Delaware? | Yes. Pepper spray is legal in Delaware. It is illegal to use it in the commission of a crime or to assault a law enforcement officer with it. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 § 612 |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If Delaware requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued? | Delaware is a may-issue state. Concealed Deadly Weapon Licenses (CDWLs) are issued by the county Superior Court after an application process, including public notice in a local newspaper, personal references, and final court approval. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Delaware? | Yes. Anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm may carry it openly. (Some areas prohibit open carry, and private property owners may set rules.) |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Delaware? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess generally. Concealed carry of them requires a CDWL (or a permit from a state DE honors), except they are banned in New Castle County, Wilmington, and Newark. New Castle Ordinance 22.03.009, Wilmington Ord. 36-161, Newark Ord. 31-5 |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Delaware with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | With a Delaware CDWL, you may also carry small folding knives (blade ≤3 inches). Other deadly weapons may be restricted. Check local laws. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 § 1441 |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Delaware have ammunition restrictions? | State law doesn’t specifically limit ammo, but Wilmington prohibits armor-piercing ammo. Federal restrictions still apply. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Delaware have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | Yes. Generally limited to 17 rounds or fewer. Military, law enforcement, and DE CDWL holders are exempt. Title 11, Ch. 5, VII |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Delaware to get a concealed carry license? | 18 years old. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does Delaware allow constitutional carry? | No, Delaware does not allow permitless carry for concealed weapons. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Delaware? | Yes, unless posted, and provided you are not under the influence. Delaware law doesn’t forbid concealed carry in places serving alcohol per se. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and WMAs in Delaware? | Yes, with a Delaware CDWL or a valid permit from a state Delaware honors. Some areas may be posted off-limits, so check local signage and rules. DE Admin Rule 201-21.1.4, 402-8.8.3 |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Delaware? | Yes, if you have a DE CDWL or a recognized out-of-state permit. Otherwise, a firearm must be kept in plain view (e.g., on the dashboard or seat) and not in a glove box or hidden. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 § 1442 |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Delaware? | Not specifically addressed by statute. Hotels may set their own policies, so contact hotel management. A valid CDWL is still required for concealed carry. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Delaware? | Yes, with a Delaware Concealed Deadly Weapon License or a permit from a state DE honors. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does Delaware have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? | Not addressed in state law. Employers may have their own policy. Obey any posted rules, and be mindful of safe storage requirements. |
KEY STATE LAWS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does Delaware allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records? | No. The registry is not publicly accessible, though law enforcement can access it. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Delaware? | No. Delaware does not require you to inform an officer that you are carrying, unless asked. It’s courteous to do so, but not mandated by law. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Delaware have a red flag law? | Yes. Family members or law enforcement can petition the court to temporarily remove firearms from someone deemed a risk to themselves or others. Del. Code Ann. tit. 10, § 7701 |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are such signs enforced in Delaware? | No. Delaware law does not specifically mention signs. However, owners can ask you to leave if they prohibit firearms; refusal could be trespassing. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Delaware? | No recognized tribal lands in Delaware with separate laws. If traveling elsewhere, always check that tribe’s laws and obtain permission. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Any laws on carrying while under the influence? | It’s illegal to carry while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in public. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 § 1460 Regardless, it’s unsafe to carry while impaired. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Delaware issue licenses to non-residents? | Rarely. The Attorney General may issue a temporary license for certain short-term needs tied to employment for protection of person or property. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Delaware law define brandishing? | No. But threatening behavior could be charged as disorderly conduct or menacing. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 § 1301 |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry Permit? Is my DE driver’s license linked to my Delaware weapons license? | No. Your driver’s license is not automatically linked to your DE CDWL. However, police can query relevant databases. |
| PREEMPTION? Does Delaware have preemption laws on firearms? | Yes, the state reserves regulation of firearms. Localities can ban firearms in police stations and some county buildings if posted. Licensed concealed carriers are generally exempt. Del. Code Ann. tit. 9 § 330(d); tit. 22 § 111 |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after buying a handgun in Delaware? | No. There is no mandated waiting period. However, background checks may take time. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does my permit exempt me from a check in Delaware? | No. Federal law requires a background check on all firearm sales. Out-of-state permits do not exempt from the background check process. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Delaware? | Currently, no. However, a Permit-to-Purchase law was signed May 16, 2024. This law won’t take effect for 18 months (around November 2025). |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? EXCEPTIONS? Are background checks required for private handgun sales in Delaware? | Yes. Transfers must go through an FFL with a background check, unless the sale is between immediate family members or the buyer has a valid DE CDWL. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 § 1448B |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess/transport a handgun in Delaware? | 21 is generally the minimum, with exceptions for military, law enforcement, or licensed concealed carriers aged 18-21. Del. Code Ann. tit. 11 §§ 1445(4) |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I have/carry a handgun at home without a license? | Yes. Permitless carry is allowed on property you own or lease. A CDWL is required to carry concealed outside your property. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Delaware? | No. Delaware does not require handgun registration. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES DELAWARE HONOR? | Delaware recognizes permits from:
|
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH DELAWARE? | The following states honor Delaware permits:
*PC-18 = permitless at 18, PC-19 = permitless at 19, etc. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH DELAWARE? |
|
| 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 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 = at least 18 years old, *PC-19 = at least 19, *PC-21 = at least 21. |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Contact your county’s prothonotary office for details. Typically, you file a request for a replacement license and pay any associated fees. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 3 years for initial license, 5 years for renewals. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Delaware CCDW Application & Info Link to application Reference Questionnaire |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Delaware’s attorney general may issue temporary licenses to certain non-residents who demonstrate a short-term need tied to employment for personal protection. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF DELAWARE AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Moving to DE? Apply through the prothonotary’s office when you establish residency. Moving away from DE? Your Delaware license is valid until you establish residency elsewhere. Then it expires. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | $65 for both new and renewal applications, plus additional costs if needed (fingerprinting, etc.). |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | No specific timeframe is provided by statute. Delays can vary. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Submit an informal letter to the court with your updated name/address, copy of updated Driver’s License, two passport photos, and fee. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • At least 18 years old • 5 character references in your county • Complete firearms training • Publish your application notice in a local newspaper • Not convicted of certain disqualifying offenses • Meet federal law requirements |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Fill out the application and get fingerprinted 2. Publish your intent in a local newspaper 3. Gather 5 reference questionnaires 4. File notarized application with prothonotary 5. If approved, complete a training course within 90 days 6. Submit training certificate |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Must complete an approved firearms course covering safe handling, operation, storage, conflict resolution, and live-fire of at least 100 rounds. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | • Renewals can begin on January 2 of the renewal year, must be filed by June 1 • Provide 2 passport photos and application • File with the prothonotary and pay $65 |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • Bars/restaurants serving alcohol (unless posted) • In vehicles, if licensed • Roadside rest areas • State/national parks, forests, WMAs (unless posted) • Places of worship (unless posted) |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? |
|
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is unlawful to willfully obstruct or impede lawful hunting/fishing/trapping activities. Del. Code Ann. tit. 7 § 724 |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | You cannot carry both a shotgun/rifle and a concealed pistol at the same time for hunting. Handgun hunting is allowed under specific seasons & methods. Bowhunters may not carry a concealed sidearm. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | No, carrying a concealed firearm while bow hunting is prohibited in Delaware. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | • Open carry of legal knives is allowed • Concealed carry of folding knives under 3 inches is typically allowed with a license • Switchblades, gravity knives, knuckles-knives, & undetectable knives are restricted • Schools prohibit knives |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | No known Delaware statute prohibits wearing a COVID-19 mask while carrying concealed. Illegal intent to conceal identity for criminal acts is separate. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Under LEOSA, qualified officers & retirees can carry nationwide with required credentials. Delaware law Title 11 § 1441A, 1441B implements LEOSA. Firearms qualification required annually. |
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.
