Introduction to Georgia's Concealed Carry Laws
Understanding concealed carry laws Georgia can feel overwhelming, but once you dive in, you’ll see just how accessible self-defense can be in the Peach State. Georgia’s constitutional carry bill, signed in 2022, offers an option for permitless carry while still allowing residents to obtain a formal weapons carry license (WCL). Below, we’ll detail what you need to know about concealed carry, self-defense rules, and CCW requirements by state. We’ll also look at why concealed carry training remains invaluable—even if you choose not to get a license.
Table of Contents
Georgia’s Constitutional Carry & WCL Basics
With constitutional carry, residents and many visitors can carry concealed without a license, provided they meet legal criteria. However, Georgia still issues a Weapons Carry License (WCL). Why?
- Ease of Purchase: When buying firearms, a WCL can sometimes streamline background checks.
- Legal Certainty: Some folks simply prefer the added clarity a license offers when interacting with law enforcement.
Under concealed carry laws Georgia, you must be 21 or older (or 18 for military members who’ve completed basic training) to qualify. And while no firearms training is mandatory, many experts stress that concealed carry training can significantly improve safety and confidence.
Where You Can and Cannot Carry
Allowed Locations:
- Personal Vehicles: You can keep a firearm concealed without a license if you legally own the car or have the owner’s permission.
- State/National Parks and Wildlife Management Areas: Georgia law specifically allows concealed handguns in these areas.
- Roadside Rest Areas & Most Restaurants: Concealed carry is allowed unless a business clearly posts otherwise.
Prohibited Locations:
- School Zones & School Buses: Without a specific exception, weapons remain off-limits in or around educational facilities, including college dorms or offices.
- Places of Worship (Unless Permitted): Churches, synagogues, or other places of worship may prohibit firearms unless allowed by their leadership.
- Secure Government Buildings: This includes courthouses, jails, and secured areas of airports.
- Polls and Voting Areas: Carry is banned within 150 feet of polling places on Election Day.
Violating these restrictions can lead to legal trouble, so check the local rules diligently.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
Under concealed carry laws Georgia, open carry is generally allowed—but only if you have a WCL or valid out-of-state permit that Georgia recognizes. Remember:
- No License, No Open Carry: Constitutional carry didn’t change open carry rules. If you wish to openly carry a firearm, you’ll need a license.
- Why Some Avoid Open Carry: Many prefer concealed carry for privacy and reduced attention in public.
Vehicle Carry Explained
Georgia law is relatively lenient regarding firearms in personal vehicles:
- Your Own Car: You can carry openly or concealed, with or without a WCL, as long as you’re legally allowed to own a firearm.
- Someone Else’s Car: You must obtain permission from the car’s owner or rightful possessor to carry a firearm within it.
- Employers & Parking Lots: Many employees can store firearms locked in their vehicles, even on company property, so long as they follow storage regulations and, when necessary, hold a WCL.
Key Self-Defense and Castle Doctrine Principles
Georgia is a Castle Doctrine state with stand-your-ground protections. This means:
- No Duty to Retreat: If you face a forcible felony (like rape, robbery, or kidnapping), you may defend yourself or others without retreating, provided you have the right to be there.
- Use of Force: Non-deadly force is permissible to stop trespass, burglary, or property crimes. Deadly force can be justified against serious felonies if you fear imminent harm.
- Defense of Habitation: Georgia law covers not only your home but also your vehicle and place of business as part of “habitation.”
We maintain a number of resources for legal education around self-defense and Second Amendment laws that you can view here if you would like to learn more.
Getting a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL)
Even with constitutional carry, a WCL has benefits—especially if you travel frequently. Here’s how to obtain a license:
- Visit Your County Probate Court: You must be 21 or older, or 18 if you’re military and have completed basic training.
- Fill Out an Application: Some counties offer an online system; others require an in-person appointment. Have ID and proof of residency ready.
- Fingerprints & Background Checks: Expect fingerprinting within five days of filing your application.
- Pay the Fee: Typically around $75, though it varies by county.
- Wait Up to 60 Days: The court has this long to approve or deny your license. Once approved, your WCL is valid for five years.
CCW Requirements by State: Reciprocity and Travel
Due to Governor Kemp’s signing of HB 218, Georgia recognizes permits from all other states. So, if you’re an out-of-state visitor, you can carry in Georgia with your home-state license. Conversely, check CCW requirements by state before traveling with a Georgia WCL.
Why Concealed Carry Training Still Matters
Although concealed carry laws Georgia do not mandate coursework, safe and responsible firearms handling is crucial. Formal concealed carry training covers:
- Safe Draw and Holster Techniques
- Use-of-Force Laws
- Marksmanship and Gun Maintenance
- High-Stress Decision-Making
Training isn’t just about meeting a government requirement. It’s about sharpening your skills so you can protect yourself confidently and legally.
Additional Tips to Stay Compliant
- Know Your Boundaries: If a private business posts “No Weapons,” you risk trespassing if you ignore it, even though such signs aren’t legally enforced.
- Keep ID Handy: While no law compels you to inform law enforcement you’re carrying, cooperation can reduce tension during traffic stops or other encounters.
- Plan for Renewals: WCLs last five years. Aim to renew at least 90 days ahead, so you avoid any lapse.
- Stay Current: Gun laws can change. Periodically check official resources for updates on restricted locations or reciprocity shifts.
Your Action Plan - Policing the Brass
Navigating concealed carry laws Georgia might feel complex, but it boils down to these steps:
- Decide if you want a WCL for open-carry or background check ease.
- Embrace concealed carry training for competency and peace of mind.
- Respect property rights and all posted off-limits areas.
- Keep track of CCW requirements by state if you travel.
Ultimately, responsible carry involves more than just staying legal. It means staying informed, getting proper training, and consistently practicing safe firearm handling. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to exercise your Second Amendment rights confidently and effectively in the Peach State.
If you would like more details and the specific laws that govern concealed carry in Georgia, you can visit HandgunLaw.us for a downloadable guide.
Concealed Carry Laws Georgia: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Georgia? | Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Georgia. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Georgia is a shall-issue state. Licenses (often called Georgia Weapons Carry Licenses, or GWCL) are issued at the county level by the probate court in the applicant’s county of residence. However, constitutional carry (permitless carry) also applies to “lawful weapons carriers.” |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Georgia? | Yes. Open carry is legal with a Georgia Weapons Carry License (GWCL) or a permit from a state Georgia honors. Open carry was not separately addressed in the constitutional carry law, so a GWCL is still required if you open carry. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-126(h)(1)] |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Georgia? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license. However, it is illegal to carry them within 1,000 feet of any K-12 school property or function. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-127.1(a)(2)] |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Georgia with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | Yes. Knives are allowed under a Georgia Weapons Carry License or under permitless carry if an individual is a lawful weapons carrier. (Knives with blades longer than 12 inches require a GWCL if carried concealed.) [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-125.1 and §16-11-126(h)(1)] |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Georgia have ammunition restrictions? | No. Georgia does not impose restrictions on ammunition types or capacity. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Georgia have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Georgia. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Georgia to get a concealed carry permit? | You must be at least 21 years old to get a Georgia Weapons Carry License, or 18 if you are on active duty or honorably discharged military. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | Yes. Georgia enacted constitutional carry on April 12, 2022, permitting any “lawful weapons carrier” to carry either openly or concealed without a permit. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Georgia? | Yes, there is no statute specifically prohibiting licensed or lawful weapons carriers from carrying in a restaurant that serves alcohol, unless posted. Establishments can set their own policies. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas in Georgia? | Yes. Concealed firearms are allowed in Georgia’s state and national parks, state and national forests, and WMAs for lawful weapons carriers. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-126(g)] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Georgia? | Yes. Any person eligible to possess a firearm may carry it, openly or concealed, in his or her own motor vehicle without a license. If it’s not your vehicle, you must have the vehicle owner’s permission. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-126] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Georgia? | Georgia law doesn’t specifically address hotels. Each hotel may have its own policy. Concealed or open carry would otherwise be allowed for lawful carriers, subject to “no guns” policies set by property owners. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Georgia? | Yes. Lawful weapons carriers can carry concealed in roadside rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does the state have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? | Georgia law protects employees’ rights to keep firearms locked out of sight in their personal vehicles at work if they have a valid license or otherwise not prohibited. Certain high-security properties are exempt. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-135] |
KEY STATE LAWS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does the state allow the public to access concealed carry registry info? | No. The registry is not open to the public. Law enforcement can access it. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Is there a requirement to inform law enforcement in Georgia? | No. Georgia does not require you to inform an officer that you’re carrying, unless asked. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-137] |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Georgia have a red flag law? | No. Georgia does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Do these signs have legal weight in Georgia? | No. “No Weapons” signs are not enforced under state law. However, refusing to leave private property if asked could result in trespass charges. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Georgia? | Tribal authorities set their own rules, and federal statutes apply to recognized tribal nations. Obtain explicit permission from the tribal authority. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Any restrictions? | It’s illegal to discharge or handle a firearm while under the influence (BAC ≥0.08) or drugs in a manner that is unsafe. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-134] Regardless, carrying while impaired is strongly discouraged. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Georgia issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents? | Yes, but only to active-duty military members permanently stationed in Georgia (and their dependents). Others rely on constitutional carry or reciprocal licenses. |
| BRANDISHING? Does the state law define brandishing in Georgia? | No. However, pointing a firearm at another without justification is illegal. Disorderly conduct includes violent or tumultuous acts. [Ga. Code Ann. §§16-11-39, 16-11-102] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my Georgia driver’s license linked to my Georgia weapons carry license? | No. They’re not automatically linked. However, LEOs can look up your GWCL status in certain databases. |
| PREEMPTION? Does Georgia law supersede local laws? | Yes, Georgia broadly preempts local firearm regulation, though localities may regulate discharge of firearms and employees’ carry in official duties. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-173] |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Georgia? | No. There is no waiting period in Georgia for firearm purchases. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a permit exempt me from needing a background check to buy a gun in Georgia? | A Georgia Weapons Carry License can exempt Georgians from NICS re-check, but out-of-state permits do not. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Georgia? | No. You do not need a purchase permit for handguns in Georgia. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Georgia? | No. Private transfers do not require a background check, but federal and state prohibitions still apply. Retain a bill of sale for records. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess/transport a handgun in Georgia? | 18 years old, unless legally prohibited or certain conditions apply. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-132] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Is that legal in Georgia? | Yes. Anyone lawfully able to possess a firearm may carry a handgun on their own property or in their own business or vehicle without a license. [Ga. Code Ann. §16-11-126] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Georgia? | No. There is no firearm registration in Georgia. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES GEORGIA HONOR? | Per HB 218, Georgia will now honor licenses or permits from all other states that issue them, including states that recognize the Georgia Weapons Carry License. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH GEORGIA? | The following states honor Georgia’s permits:
Note: “PC-18” or “PC-19” indicates permitless carry at that age. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH GEORGIA? | These states honor Georgia permits only under certain conditions (like “resident only,” handguns only, or 21+):
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? |
*PC-18 = permitless carry at 18; PC-19 = permitless carry at 19; PC-21 = permitless carry at 21 |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Notify the judge of the probate court where it was issued within 48 hours of discovering the loss or damage. They will issue a cancellation order and can provide a replacement (fee applies). |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Georgia Online Weapons Carry License Application (Availability depends on county). |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES ISSUED? | Yes, but only to military members permanently stationed in Georgia (and their spouses). The process is the same as for residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF GEORGIA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move to Georgia: You can apply for a GWCL when you establish residency. If you hold a permit from another state that Georgia honors, you can carry for up to 90 days while applying. If you move out of Georgia: Your GWCL expires upon establishing residency in the new state. There’s no grace period. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | The initial application is around $75 (varies by county). Renewals cost about $35 (if renewing within the designated period). |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The probate court has up to 60 days after receiving a complete application to issue or deny. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Check with your local probate court. Typically, you must provide an affidavit and updated ID. A replacement fee will apply. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • Minimum age 21 (18 if military) • Georgia residency (or stationed military) • Not a felon or prohibited possessor • No pending criminal proceedings • Not mentally incompetent, etc. • Comply with federal law |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Submit application online or at county probate court 2. Provide proof of identity and residency 3. Get fingerprinted (varies by county procedure) 4. Pay fee 5. Wait for background check & license issuance |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Georgia does not require formal firearms training to obtain a Weapons Carry License. However, training is strongly recommended for safe, responsible carry. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1. Renew up to 90 days before expiration or 30 days after expiration 2. Apply at county probate court 3. Pay renewal fee (~$35) 4. If your license has been expired more than 30 days, you must apply as a new applicant |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • In bars/restaurants (unless posted) • In your vehicle • Roadside rest areas • State/national parks, forests, WMAs • Churches (only if not posted or if allowed by church authority) • Public transportation |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • School buses, functions, safety zones (with narrow vehicle exceptions) • Courthouses • Jails/prisons • Polling places when elections are underway • Secured areas of airports • State mental health facilities • Nuclear power facilities • Government buildings with restricted access • Any place prohibited by federal law |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It’s unlawful to interfere with or disturb lawful hunting. [Ga. Code §27-3-151] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, if lawfully able to carry (e.g., lawful weapons carrier). This includes while gun hunting. [O.C.G.A. 27-3-1.1] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, if you are a lawful weapons carrier. [Ga. Code Ann. §27-3-6] |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | You can carry a knife with a blade 12 inches or less in length without a GWCL. Anything longer than 12 inches requires a GWCL if carried in a concealed manner. [Ga. Code Ann. §§16-11-126(h)(1), 16-11-125.1] |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | No Georgia statute explicitly prohibits wearing a mask while carrying. Mask laws typically address intent to conceal identity in illegal circumstances. During COVID, no law forbade mask use while armed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Under LEOSA (HR 218), qualified active or retired LEOs can carry nationwide, including Georgia, with certain exceptions. Georgia Code (16-11-130) and administrative rules clarify LEOSA standards. |
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.
