Still Very Restrictive
Ever wondered about concealed carry laws Hawaii upholds? Although the Aloha State is known for beaches and sunshine, its firearms regulations are equally noteworthy. Understanding these laws can help you stay compliant and safe, whether you’re a resident looking to defend your home or a visitor hoping to enjoy Hawaii’s natural wonders. In this guide, we’ll explore how Hawaii’s recent switch to shall-issue licensing works, why concealed carry training remains so important, and how CCW requirements by state may impact your travels. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Hawaii’s Unique Path to Shall-Issue Licensing
For years, Hawaii had some of the nation’s most restrictive concealed carry rules. However, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruen decision, Hawaii transitioned into a shall-issue state. That means if you meet the legal criteria, your local chief of police should grant you a license.
Key Points:
- Local Control: In Hawaii, the chief of police in each county issues concealed carry licenses.
- Residency: Only lawful Hawaii residents can apply; there are no non-resident licenses.
- No Reciprocity: Concealed carry laws Hawaii enforces do not recognize other states’ permits, and no state honors a Hawaii license in return.
Getting a Handgun: Permits, Registration, and Waiting Periods
Before you can even apply for a concealed carry license, you’ll need to buy a handgun legally and register it. Hawaii’s purchase process has more hoops than many other states:
- Permit to Acquire: You must get a Permit to Acquire for each handgun. Applications require a thorough background check, a 14-day waiting period, and fingerprinting.
- Registration: Once you obtain your handgun, you must register it (including make, model, and serial number) within five days.
- Handgun Transport: You can move your firearm between your home, business, or place of sojourn locked in a secure container. Outside those spots, you risk violating concealed carry laws Hawaii has in place—unless you hold a valid carry license.
Concealed Carry vs. Open Carry
Hawaii allows both open and concealed carry, but licenses are extremely difficult to obtain. Even with the new shall-issue framework, local police departments still have leeway on qualifications, and permits only apply on a per county basis.
- Open Carry: Permitted if you have a Hawaii license. However, local authorities rarely issue open-carry licenses.
- Concealed Carry: Also requires a license. Carrying a loaded firearm in any manner without a license is a Class B felony under Hawaii law.
Defensive Force & Castle Doctrine
When it comes to self-defense, concealed carry laws Hawaii rest on a foundation of moderate to strict regulations. Hawaii is a Castle Doctrine state with these features:
- At Home/Business: You have no duty to retreat if you or others face threats in your dwelling or workplace.
- Outside Home/Work: If you’re outside your property, you must retreat if it can be done in “complete safety.” That means lethal force is only justifiable if you cannot safely avoid the threat.
- Defense of Property: Non-deadly force can thwart trespassing or theft, but deadly force is only permitted to stop crimes like burglary or robbery if you reasonably fear serious harm.
For more legal education resources around self-defense and Second Amendment laws, you can visit our online resources section here.
Transportation & Vehicle Carry
Traveling around the islands with your firearm can be tricky:
- In a Private Vehicle: You cannot have a loaded firearm unless you have a valid Hawaii carry license. Otherwise, keep the weapon locked and unloaded in an enclosed container.
- Air Travel: TSA rules aside, Hawaii specifically prohibits firearms in airplane cabins. You must declare and check any firearms with your luggage, abiding by airline regulations. If you’d like a more in-depth discussion on flying with firearms, there’s an excellent breakdown that you can watch on YouTube here.
laces You Cannot Carry
Even with a license, concealed carry laws Hawaii prohibit carrying in many places, including:
- State or National Parks: Hawaii specifically bans carrying firearms in these areas.
- Bars and Restaurants Serving Alcohol: Hawaii law is silent in some areas, but it’s wise to confirm local restrictions or property-owner rules.
- Any Place with a “No Weapons” Sign: Violating posted restrictions is considered second-degree criminal trespass.
Always double-check local ordinances, as Hawaii does not have statewide preemption. Counties can enact additional gun-related rules.
Non-Residents & Reciprocal Recognition
For those hoping to visit with a concealed firearm:
- No Non-Resident Permits: Hawaii doesn’t issue licenses to out-of-state individuals.
- Temporary Firearm Registration: Non-resident hunters or shooters can bring firearms, but must register them within 72 hours of arrival—fingerprinting and photos included.
- No Reciprocity: If you hold a permit from another state, concealed carry laws Hawaii simply won’t recognize it. This detail sets Hawaii apart from many other CCW requirements by state.
Why Concealed Carry Training Matters
Technically, Hawaii requires no formal class for its concealed carry license. However:
- Mandatory Safety for Purchase: Prospective gun owners must complete a firearms safety class before obtaining a Permit to Acquire.
- Practical Skills: Concealed carry training fosters better understanding of the law, improves marksmanship, and helps you respond effectively in high-pressure scenarios.
- Liability & Responsibility: With Hawaii’s strict gun laws and no duty to retreat only in your home or work, thorough training ensures you know exactly when force is justified.
Navigating CCW Requirements by State
Because Hawaii does not honor out-of-state licenses, your mainland concealed carry permit won’t help on the islands. Conversely, a Hawaii license offers no reciprocity in other jurisdictions. If you plan to move or travel, research CCW requirements by state to confirm whether you’ll need additional documentation or if local laws bar carrying entirely.
Policing the Brass - Concealed Carry Laws Hawaii
There’s no doubt concealed carry laws Hawaii remain among America’s strictest. From mandatory firearm registration to limited places you can carry—even with a license—Hawaii’s approach to guns is shaped by a long history of stringent regulations. Yet, the shift to a shall-issue system signals a new era of access for those who meet all requirements. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, remember these key points:
- icense or No License: It’s nearly impossible to lawfully carry loaded and concealed without a Hawaii-issued permit.
- Castle Doctrine: Defend yourself at home or work, but outside these places, you must retreat if you can do so safely.
- Stay Current: Ongoing legal battles (like those following Bruen) mean Hawaii’s gun laws could evolve quickly.
- Get Proper Training: Even if not mandatory for the license, concealed carry training helps you understand your rights, sharpen your skills, and stay within the law.
By following these rules—and staying informed about CCW requirements by state—you can navigate Hawaii’s complex firearms landscape responsibly, preserving both your safety and peace of mind.
For additional information on the specific firearms laws in Hawaii, and additional details, you can visit HandgunLaw.us for more information here.
Concealed Carry Laws Hawaii: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Hawaii? | Yes, there is no state statute that prohibits purchasing or using pepper spray in Hawaii. However, local ordinances (e.g., Honolulu) may regulate the concentration, labeling, and who can possess it. Minors in Honolulu are not allowed to purchase or possess pepper spray. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Hawaii is now a shall-issue state following the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision. However, all licenses are issued by the county’s Chief of Police, and each county may have its own specific procedures. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Hawaii? | Yes, but only with a Hawaii carry license. The law technically allows licenses for both open and concealed carry. Historically, permits have been rare, but Bruen has led to changes. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Hawaii? | Yes. As of January 1, 2022, residents at least 21 years old may possess Tasers or stun guns for lawful self-defense, subject to certain restrictions on usage, labeling, and local regulations. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-82] |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Hawaii with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | No. Hawaii carry licenses only cover handguns. Other weapons are not authorized. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does the state have ammunition restrictions? | Yes. Hawaii bans armor-piercing and Teflon-coated ammunition. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-8(a)] |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does the state have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | Yes. Handgun magazines may not exceed 10 rounds. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-8(c)] |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Hawaii to get a concealed carry permit? | The minimum age to apply for a Hawaii concealed carry license is 21 years old. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | No. Hawaii does not have constitutional carry. You must have a Hawaii carry license to conceal or open carry. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Hawaii? | No. Hawaii law does not specifically allow carrying firearms into places serving alcohol. In practice, carrying inside establishments serving alcohol is effectively prohibited. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas in Hawaii? | No. Hawaii law forbids firearms in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §13-146-19] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Hawaii? | Yes, but only if you possess a valid Hawaii carry license. Generally, loaded firearms are prohibited from being transported in a vehicle unless you have a license. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-26] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Hawaii? | Hawaii statutes don’t specifically address hotels. Each hotel sets its own policy. Contact the hotel for its firearms policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Hawaii? | Yes, but not inside buildings, only with a Hawaii license. Hawaii generally prohibits carrying a loaded firearm on public highways or rest stops without a license. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-26] |
| 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? | Not addressed in Hawaii law. Employers can set policies, and statewide law generally prohibits carrying loaded firearms on highways unless licensed. |
KEY STATE LAWS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does the state allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? | No. The registry of Hawaii concealed carry licensees is not public. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Is there a duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying in Hawaii? | Yes, you have a duty to inform law enforcement if you are carrying a concealed firearm. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Hawaii have a red flag law? | Yes, Hawaii has a red flag law. Family or household members, medical professionals, educators, law enforcement or colleagues can petition the court for an order prohibiting a person from possessing firearms/ammunition. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §§134-61 to 134-72] |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are these signs enforced in Hawaii? | Yes, if you are asked to leave and refuse, you can be charged with criminal trespass in the second degree. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §708-814] |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Hawaii? | Federal or tribal regulations apply. You must obtain explicit permission from the tribal authority. Hawaii law does not specifically address tribal land. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Any restrictions in Hawaii? | Hawaii law does not explicitly address carrying while under the influence. However, carrying while impaired is strongly discouraged, and misuse of a firearm can lead to criminal charges. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Hawaii issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | No. Non-residents are not eligible for Hawaii’s concealed carry licenses. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Hawaii define brandishing? | No, brandishing isn’t defined in state statutes. However, disorderly conduct includes threatening or violent behavior without justification. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §711-1101] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my driver’s license linked to my carry license in Hawaii? | No. They are not linked. However, law enforcement may access other databases to verify your license status. |
| PREEMPTION? Does state law supersede local laws regarding handgun possession? | No, Hawaii does not have broad firearm preemption. Counties retain authority to regulate firearms, and the county chief of police has discretion regarding carry permits. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §46-1.5] |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Hawaii? | Yes. There is a minimum 14-day wait to obtain a Permit to Acquire. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a Hawaii permit exempt me from background checks in Hawaii? | No. Hawaii requires its own permit system and doesn’t honor other states’ carry licenses for purchases. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Do I need a permit to buy a handgun in Hawaii? | Yes. You must apply for a Permit to Acquire for every handgun purchase. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private transfers in Hawaii? | Yes. A Permit to Acquire (with background check) is mandatory for any firearm acquisition, including private sales and gifts. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-2] |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age for handgun possession/transport in Hawaii? | 21 is the minimum age to obtain a permit to acquire a firearm in Hawaii. Persons under 21 can handle firearms under direct adult supervision in limited target or hunting scenarios. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Is that legal in Hawaii? | No. You must first acquire a Permit to Acquire (background check, registration) before owning or possessing a handgun, even at home. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §134-2] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Must I register my handguns in Hawaii? | Yes. All firearms (including handguns) must be registered with the local county police within 5 days of acquisition. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHICH STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES HAWAII HONOR? | None. Hawaii does not honor or recognize any out-of-state carry permits. |
| WHICH STATES HONOR PERMITS FROM HAWAII? | The following states may honor Hawaii’s licenses under their own laws:
Always confirm with those states’ laws before traveling. |
| WHICH STATES HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH HAWAII? | None directly. Hawaii does not issue non-resident licenses, so there’s effectively no reciprocal arrangement. Some states still accept Hawaii for in-state residents traveling there. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? |
*PC-18 means permitless carry at 18, PC-19 at 19, PC-21 at 21. |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Contact the Chief of Police in your county of issue for replacement instructions. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Licenses in Hawaii are valid for 1 year. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Hawaii does not provide an online application. Applicants must contact their county chief of police for instructions. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | No. Hawaii does not issue licenses to non-residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF HAWAII AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Moving to Hawaii: Must meet Hawaii’s residency and licensing requirements and apply through local chief of police. Moving out of Hawaii: Your Hawaii license becomes invalid upon establishing residency in another state. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | $10 for initial/renewal, plus $42 for fingerprinting. Additional local processing fees may apply. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | There is no specific statutory timeframe, but the process can be lengthy. Contact your county’s police department for details. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Notify the county chief of police. They will advise on any forms or fees required. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • Must be 21+ • Be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident of Hawaii • Not disqualified from firearm ownership • Pass fingerprinting/background check • Demonstrate handgun training (required for acquiring firearms) |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Contact county police for forms 2. Provide justification, photo, fingerprints 3. Pay fees 4. Await background check 5. If approved, license is issued by chief of police. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Hawaii does not explicitly require training for the carry license, but gun buyers must complete a firearms safety course for permits to acquire firearms. The course must include at least 2 hours of live fire and 4 hours of classroom instruction. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | No formal process is published. Licenses expire after 1 year. Contact the chief of police to renew. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • Must have a Hawaii license • Roadside rest areas (not inside buildings) • Not in bars/restaurants serving alcohol • Generally, it’s very restrictive |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • State parks, national parks, WMAs • Bars/restaurants serving alcohol • “No guns” posted locations (trespass law applies) • Federal law prohibited areas • Most public buildings by default |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is unlawful to interfere with lawful taking of game. [Haw. Rev. Stat. §183D-27.5] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | No, Hawaii prohibits carrying a handgun while hunting game mammals except as authorized. [HI Admin Rules §13-123-22(2)] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | No, carrying a handgun during bow hunting is prohibited. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Butterfly and switchblade knives are now legal to possess (as of 5/13/2024), but carrying any dangerous weapon concealed can be prohibited. Generally, it is illegal to carry any dirk, dagger, or similar weapon with intent to use unlawfully. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Hawaii law does not specifically address wearing masks while armed. Generally, no prohibition if you’re licensed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Under LEOSA, qualified active/retired LEOs can carry in Hawaii with certain limitations (e.g., 10-round magazine limit). Hawaii requires registration of any firearm brought to the islands, even for RLEOs. |
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.
