Idaho: Permitless Carry
Idaho proudly stands among the most gun-friendly states in the nation, thanks to concealed carry laws Idaho enacted to empower responsible citizens. Even so, there’s more to Idaho’s firearm statutes than meets the eye. From optional licenses to concealed carry training tips and how the state’s rules measure up against CCW requirements by state elsewhere, this guide explores everything you need to know. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Idaho’s Path to Permitless Carry
Idaho’s permitless system allows any law-abiding U.S. citizen at least 18 years old to carry a concealed firearm without a license. But the state also offers two types of Concealed Weapons Licenses (CWLs):
- Standard CWL: Easy to acquire if you’re over 18, reside in Idaho, and can legally possess a firearm.
- Enhanced CWL: Requires more concealed carry training but unlocks reciprocity in additional states—possibly very handy if you travel often.
Many firearms owners find it helpful to still get a CWL for smoother background checks, travel considerations, and the peace of mind that they’ve met official state standards. Even though concealed carry laws Idaho allow permitless carry, the option of obtaining a CWL remains appealing for many.
Purchasing a Handgun: Quick Facts
No License for Private Sales
Idaho does not require a license or waiting period to buy a handgun from a private individual. If you purchase from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), a background check is mandatory—unless you hold a valid Idaho CWL.
No Registration
There’s no firearms registration system in Idaho. Whether you buy from a dealer or a private party, you won’t need to register your handgun with any state database.
Extra Perk: CWL Exemption
Owning an Idaho CWL can exempt you from the federal background check at the time of purchase. That’s one reason many responsible owners opt to secure a license, even under permitless carry rules.
No Waiting Period
If you want to purchase a handgun from a private individual, there’s no mandated waiting period. However, you’ll need a background check if buying from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL)—unless you already have a valid Idaho CWL.
Where You Can (and Can’t) Carry
Idaho law is fairly lenient about where you can carry, but a few spots remain off-limits:
- Schools and School Events: Firearms aren’t allowed in K–12 properties or vehicles carrying students.
- Courthouses and Jails: The usual security restrictions apply.
- Private Businesses: Property owners have the right to prohibit weapons; disobeying “No Guns” signs could be treated as trespassing.
- Federal Restrictions: Places like post offices and certain federal buildings remain no-carry zones.
Keep these restrictions in mind. Though concealed carry laws Idaho are friendly, ignoring property owner rights or federal laws can land you in hot water.
Vehicle Carry: What’s Allowed?
Under Idaho’s permitless carry system, lawful owners can carry a concealed firearm in their own vehicle without any license. However, if you’re borrowing someone else’s car, you must have that owner’s permission to conceal. This straightforward approach helps protect Idahoans who want to be prepared on the road.
Self-Defense: Castle Doctrine & Stand Your Ground
Idaho’s robust self-defense laws allow you to stand your ground against threats:
- No Duty to Retreat: If you’re lawfully present, you don’t have to flee an attack.
- Castle Doctrine: Your home, vehicle, and place of business are places you can defend with deadly force if you reasonably believe you face imminent harm.
- Defending Others: Idaho law also permits using force to protect a third person from serious danger.
We maintain a list of legal educational resources that you can find on our website if you’d like more information on self-defense laws.
Comparing CCW Requirements by State
While Idaho’s laws lean pro-Second Amendment, traveling across state lines can complicate matters. Some states only honor Idaho’s Enhanced CWL. If you plan on regular interstate travel, confirm CCW requirements by state to avoid legal troubles. Having the enhanced license often grants you broader acceptance in other jurisdictions.
Why Get a License Under Permitless Carry?
Since concealed carry laws Idaho allow you to go license-free, why bother obtaining a CWL? Here are some solid reasons:
- Wider Reciprocity: Enhanced CWLs let you legally carry in more states.
- No Background Checks When Buying: Skip the wait at FFLs by presenting your Idaho CWL.
- Extra Training: Both the standard and enhanced license processes encourage safer handling, giving you confidence if you ever need to protect yourself.
Firearms Training: A Smart Move
Though it isn’t mandatory for every concealed carrier, concealed carry training can be a game-changer. You’ll practice proper firearm safety, refine your shooting skills, and learn how to respond responsibly in high-pressure scenarios. Classes often review legal considerations—critical knowledge for anyone who wishes to carry safely under concealed carry laws Idaho.
Key Points to Remember
- Legal Possession: You must be able to legally own a firearm under federal law.
- Minimum Age: Eighteen years old if you’re a U.S. citizen or active-duty military.
- Vehicle Carry: You can conceal in your own car without a license.
- Off-Limits Areas: Schools, courthouses, jails, and federal properties remain no-go zones.
- Respect Property Rights: Private businesses can still ban firearms.
Policing the Brass - Taking the Next Step
If you want full legal confidence, consider applying for an Idaho CWL—especially the enhanced version—for more interstate coverage. Stay up to date on any local changes, brush up on concealed carry training periodically, and always remain aware of CCW requirements by state when you travel. By following Idaho’s straightforward guidelines, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes from lawfully exercising your Second Amendment rights.
For full details on specific statues, and additional information on concealed carry laws Idah, HandgunLaw.us maintains a downloadable guide that you can find here.
Concealed Carry Laws Idaho: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Idaho? | Yes. There is no statute in Idaho prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray. No permit is required. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Idaho is a shall-issue state, with concealed weapons licenses (CWLs) issued at the county level by county sheriffs. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Idaho? | Yes. Open carry is allowed without a license for anyone who is at least 18 years old and not prohibited from possessing a firearm. [Idaho Code Ann. § 18-3302(4)] |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Idaho? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Idaho with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | Yes. An Idaho CWL allows the concealed carry of any deadly weapon, including dirk knives, daggers, bowie knives or firearms, among others. [Idaho Code Ann. § 18-3302(7)] |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does the state have ammunition restrictions? | No. Idaho does not impose specific restrictions on the types of ammunition you may use in your handgun. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does the state have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. Idaho does not have magazine capacity restrictions. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Idaho to get a concealed carry permit? | The minimum age to apply for an Idaho Concealed Weapons License is 18 years old. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | Yes. Any U.S. citizen at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a license in Idaho. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Idaho? | Yes. There is no state law prohibiting concealed carry in restaurants that serve alcohol, unless posted, and provided the carrier is not under the influence. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas in Idaho? | Yes. Concealed carry is allowed in state/national parks, state/national forests and WMAs, unless otherwise posted. [Idaho Adm. Code 26.01.20.175.14] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Idaho? | Yes. Permitless concealed carry applies inside vehicles for anyone 18 years or older who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. [Idaho Code Ann. §§ 18-3302(3), 18-3302(4)] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Idaho? | Idaho law does not specifically address firearms at hotels. Each hotel may set its own policy, so check with the hotel regarding their firearms rules. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Idaho? | Yes. There is no law prohibiting concealed carry at 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? | Idaho does not have a specific statute protecting employees’ rights to store firearms in vehicles at work. Employers may prohibit firearms on their parking lots. |
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. Idaho’s concealed carry registry is not public. |
| 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 Idaho? | No. There is no duty to inform an officer unless asked. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does the state have a red flag law? | No. Idaho does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are these signs enforced in Idaho? | No. “No Weapons Allowed” signs are not enforced by Idaho law. However, failing to leave private property when requested could result in trespassing charges. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Idaho? | Policies vary by tribe. For example, the Nez Perce Tribe allows carry with a valid Idaho permit; the Shoshone Bannock Tribe restricts firearms to specific circumstances. Always confirm with tribal authorities. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Does the state have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or a controlled dangerous substance? | Idaho prohibits carrying while under the influence or if you are an unlawful user of drugs. [Idaho Code Ann. §§ 18-3302B, 18-3302(10)(e)] Exercise caution and avoid carrying while impaired. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does the state issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Yes. Non-residents can apply under the same or similar rules as residents. |
| BRANDISHING? Does the state law define brandishing? | Idaho does not define “brandishing.” However, pointing a firearm at someone without legal justification is a crime. [Idaho Code Ann. §§ 18-3303, 18-3304] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my state driver’s license linked to my state carry permit? | Yes. Your Idaho driver’s license is linked to your concealed weapons license. Law enforcement will be notified of your permit status if they run your driver’s license. |
| PREEMPTION? Does the state have preemption laws related to concealed carry? | Yes. Idaho has statewide preemption for firearms. Local authorities can only regulate the discharge of firearms in most cases. [Idaho Code Ann. § 18-3302J] |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Idaho? | No. There is no waiting period required by Idaho law. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does my current state concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? | An Idaho CWL does exempt you from a federal background check prior to purchase. Other states’ permits do not. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Idaho? | No. Idaho does not require purchase permits for firearms. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Idaho? | No. Private party sales do not require a background check, though federal/state prohibitions still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Idaho? | 18 years old. Those under 18 need written permission or direct supervision by a parent/guardian. [Idaho Code Ann. § 18-3302A] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? | Yes. You may carry on your own property without a permit. Idaho also allows permitless carry for adults 18 and older who can legally possess a firearm. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Idaho? | No. Idaho does not require registration of firearms. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF IDAHO HONOR? | Idaho honors all out-of-state CCW permits. Additionally, Idaho recognizes permitless carry for U.S. citizens at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF IDAHO? | Idaho CWLs are honored in the following states: • Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old) • Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) • Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) • Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) • New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) • North Carolina • North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) • South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) • Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) Note: When carrying in these states, you must follow their laws. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF IDAHO? | Some states only recognize Idaho’s enhanced license or have additional age restrictions. Examples include Arizona, Florida, Nevada, etc. Always confirm whether they only honor the enhanced Idaho license. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? |
PC-18 means 18+ may carry permitless; PC-21 means 21+ may carry permitless. |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Contact the sheriff’s office that issued your permit to report it lost or stolen and request a replacement. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Idaho CWL Application (PDF) |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Non-residents follow similar procedures. Contact the sheriff in the county where you apply. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF IDAHO AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move to Idaho, you can apply for a license at any time (residency for at least 6 months may be needed for a resident license). If you leave Idaho, your Idaho license remains valid until expiration, unless otherwise notified by the sheriff’s office. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Typically $20 for the initial license, $15 for renewal. The sheriff may charge extra fees for fingerprints and processing. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | By statute, up to 90 days. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Contact the sheriff’s office in your county. They may require a small fee and proof of the change. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • Be at least 18 • U.S. citizen or legal resident • No felony convictions or disqualifiers • 6-month Idaho residency for a resident permit • Possibly complete firearm familiarity or training • Meet federal law requirements |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Complete training if required. 2) Submit application, ID, and fee at the sheriff’s office; provide fingerprints. 3) Wait for approval (up to 90 days). |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | The sheriff may require proof of familiarity. For enhanced CWLs, an 8-hour class plus live fire (at least 98 rounds) is mandatory. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | You can renew within 90 days before or after the expiration date. Submit a renewal application and pay the renewal fee at your local sheriff’s office. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Most public places unless prohibited. Examples: bars (unless posted), restaurants serving alcohol (unless posted), state/national parks, roadside rest areas, etc. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • Elementary/secondary schools and school events • Some college/university areas • Courthouses, jails, prisons • Daycare facilities • Places posted “no firearms” (private property) • Any place prohibited by federal law |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. Interfering with lawful hunting is illegal. [Idaho Statute § 36-1510] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, for Idaho residents. [Idaho Statute § 36-401(g)] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, but you cannot use a firearm to harvest or finish off an animal in an archery-only season. [ID Fish & Game FAQ] |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Over 6-inch blades (e.g., Bowie knives, dirks, daggers) require a CWL if carried concealed. Other knives are generally not restricted. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Idaho has no law barring concealed carry while wearing a mask. |
| ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Under LEOSA, qualified active/retired officers can carry nationwide with some exceptions. Idaho sheriffs handle qualification for retired officers, no state-mandated course exists. |
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.
