Permitless Carry in Indiana
Are you curious about how concealed carry laws Indiana apply to you and what steps you should take to legally and safely carry a handgun? Understanding these laws not only helps you stay compliant but also keeps you prepared to defend yourself and your loved ones if necessary. This article will give you a complete look at Indiana’s permitless carry policy, the state’s CCW licensing system, concealed carry training considerations, and more. We’ll explore everything from CCW requirements by state reciprocity to the ins and outs of Indiana’s self-defense laws.
Table of Contents
Understanding Indiana’s Firearm Basics
Indiana is a shall-issue, permitless carry state. That means qualified individuals are no longer required to obtain a license to carry a handgun openly or concealed. However, Indiana still issues two types of licenses for those who wish to have that added credential:
- Qualified License: Specifically for hunting and target practice.
- Unlimited License: For defense of life and property.
No License Required to Purchase
In Indiana, you don’t need a license to buy a firearm, and there is no official registration process for either long guns or handguns. If you want to purchase a long gun, you must be at least 18 years old and be an Indiana resident (or a resident of a neighboring state). For handguns, buyers must be at least 21 years old and reside in Indiana.
Permitless Carry in Indiana
As of July 1, 2022, Indiana law allows any law-abiding citizen 18 years or older—who is not otherwise prohibited by federal or state law—to carry a handgun without a license. This includes both open carry and concealed carry. If you meet these criteria, you are now free to carry a handgun for self-defense.
However, some people who cannot meet Indiana’s CCW requirements by state standards may be ineligible for a license yet still not entirely prohibited from possessing a firearm. In those cases, if the person is not fully prohibited from gun possession but would not qualify for a license, they must follow stricter guidelines when carrying or transporting a gun, such as storing the firearm unloaded, in a case, and out of reach in a vehicle.
Application Process for an Indiana Handgun License
Even though you can carry without a license, many choose to obtain one for added convenience—especially if they travel to other states that honor Indiana’s permits. Here’s the basic application process for an Indiana Handgun License:
Online Application
Complete the Handgun License Application through the Indiana State Police Handgun Licensing Portal. You’ll have 180 days to complete the remaining steps once you begin.
Fingerprinting
Schedule an appointment for electronic fingerprinting. If you have any questions, call your local law enforcement agency for guidance.
Local Law Enforcement
Visit your sheriff’s department or local police (for city residents) within 180 days. This involves finalizing your application and paying any local fees.
Final Review
Once approved, your license is mailed to you. If denied, you’ll be notified of any appeal steps.
Non-Resident Licenses
If you live out of state but work or regularly conduct business in Indiana, you can also apply for a 4-year personal-protection license. You must provide a notarized affidavit and a letter from your employer stating that you have a regular place of business in Indiana.
Concealed Carry Training Recommendations
Indiana law does not require any specific concealed carry training to carry a handgun. That said, we strongly advises all gun owners to pursue training. Understanding firearm safety, marksmanship, and legal considerations (like the rules on brandishing) can help you avoid mistakes and be more confident in protecting yourself and others.
We maintain a dedicated section of online resources for firearms owners. From news, training, legal education, and more that you can view here.
Locations Where You Can Carry
Generally, you can carry (open or concealed) in places such as:
- Roadside rest areas
- State or national parks, forests, and WMAs (subject to certain Army Corps of Engineers constraints)
- Private property (if the owner consents)
- Businesses that are not posted
Because Indiana has statewide preemption, local governments cannot impose additional blanket firearm bans in most situations, although they can prohibit firearms in certain buildings with courtrooms or at events with official screening in place.
Places Off-Limits to Firearms
Even with strong concealed carry laws Indiana has off-limit areas:
- Schools and school buses (unless you’re a resource officer or otherwise legally authorized)
- Some state properties like the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Government Center (with posted rules)
- Certain child-care institutions
- Riverboat casinos, horse tracks
- Airports and commercial or charter aircraft
- Buildings containing courtrooms
Federal law also restricts carrying in certain locations, such as secured areas of airports and federal buildings. Always check posted signs and relevant regulations before entering.
Self-Defense in Indiana: Castle Doctrine & Stand Your Ground
Protection of Self and Others
Indiana is a Castle Doctrine state with a stand your ground law. There’s no legal duty to retreat if you reasonably believe deadly force is needed to prevent serious bodily harm or a forcible felony. Essentially, if you or another person is in imminent peril, you have the right to defend.
Defense of Property
Under Indiana law, using force to protect your property—such as preventing a trespass or interference—is justified if you reasonably believe it’s immediately necessary. However, using deadly force to protect mere property is only allowed if it also fits the standard for using deadly force, such as preventing a forcible felony.
Defense of Place
If someone unlawfully enters or attacks your dwelling, the curtilage (area immediately around the home), or your occupied vehicle, you’re allowed to use reasonable force—including deadly force—without a duty to retreat, if you believe it’s necessary to halt the intrusion or assault.
FAQ: Common Questions About Concealed Carry Laws Indiana
Can I carry without a permit in my vehicle?
Yes. If you are not otherwise prohibited by law, you can carry in your vehicle. Those who would be ineligible for a license but aren’t barred from owning a firearm can still transport it unloaded, secured, and out of reach.Do “No Weapons Allowed” signs have legal force in Indiana?
No, these signs are not specifically enforced by law. However, refusing to leave a posted private property could lead to trespassing charges.Am I required to inform an officer if I’m carrying?
No. There’s no statutory requirement to disclose you’re armed, unless an officer asks.Are there magazine capacity limits?
No. Indiana does not impose capacity restrictions for handguns.Is brandishing illegal?
“Brandishing” isn’t formally defined, but knowingly pointing a gun at someone can be a criminal offense.
Policing the Brass - Concealed Carry in Indiana
In conclusion, concealed carry laws Indiana set a framework that upholds your right to protect yourself, whether you choose permitless carry or secure an Indiana License to Carry. While no training is mandated, seeking out concealed carry training is a wise step toward being a responsible gun owner—especially if you’re eager to meet CCW requirements by state when crossing borders. If you’re passionate about staying safe and up-to-date on Indiana’s legal landscape, continue educating yourself and practicing safe firearm handling. Your preparedness and knowledge will go a long way in ensuring your confidence—and the safety of those around you—in the Hoosier State.
If you would like more information and a downloadable guide with specific laws and statues, you can visit HandgunLaw.us for more information.
Concealed Carry Laws Indiana: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Indiana? | Yes. There is no statute in Indiana prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray. Individuals may legally purchase and carry pepper spray for self-defense. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Indiana is a shall-issue state, meaning the Indiana State Police must issue a license if the applicant meets all required qualifications. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Indiana? | Yes. Open carry of a handgun is legal in Indiana for anyone at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Indiana? | Yes. Stun guns are legal to purchase and possess without a license if you’re at least 18 years old. Tasers require a valid license to carry. [Ind. Code §§ 35-47-8-4, 35-47-8-5 & 35-31.5-2-86] |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Indiana with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | Yes. A concealed carry license in Indiana covers Tasers as well as handguns. Other weapons may be subject to different statutes. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does the state have ammunition restrictions? | Yes, armor-piercing handgun ammunition is prohibited. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Indiana have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Indiana. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Indiana to get a concealed carry permit? | You must be at least 18 years old to be issued a license to carry in Indiana. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | Yes. As of July 1, 2022, permitless carry is in effect for anyone 18 or older who is not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Indiana? | Yes, provided you are not otherwise prohibited. There is no statute making it illegal to carry in restaurants where alcohol is served, unless posted. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas in Indiana? | Yes. You may carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and WMAs in Indiana. However, certain Army Corps of Engineers properties or other leased areas may restrict firearms. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Indiana? | Yes. With the passage of permitless carry, anyone 18 or older who can legally possess a handgun may carry it openly or concealed in a vehicle. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Indiana? | Indiana statutes do not specifically address firearms at hotels. Each hotel may set its own policy, so check with the property. If posted, you must follow their rules. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Indiana? | Yes. Concealed carry is permitted at roadside rest areas in Indiana. |
| 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? | Yes. Employers cannot prohibit an employee from storing a firearm out of sight in a locked vehicle in an employee parking lot. Certain exceptions apply (e.g., school property). [Ind. Code § 34-28-7-2] |
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 Indiana concealed carry license registry is not publicly accessible. It is available for law enforcement use only. |
| 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 Indiana? | No. There is no legal requirement to inform an officer that you’re carrying, unless asked. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does the state have a red flag law? | Yes. Indiana’s red flag law allows law enforcement to petition a court to seize firearms from persons deemed dangerous. [Ind. Code § 35-47-14-2] |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in the state? If yes, violating the sign would be considered a crime. | No. Such signs do not have force of law in Indiana. However, if asked to leave, you must do so to avoid trespassing charges. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Indiana? | Policies vary. Some tribes allow concealed carry with a valid license, others prohibit. Check with tribal law or authorities before entering. |
| 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? | Not specifically addressed in Indiana statutes. Use caution, as being impaired while carrying could lead to other criminal charges. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does the state issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Yes, for out-of-state residents who have a regular place of business or employment in Indiana. |
| BRANDISHING? Does the state law define brandishing? | No. However, pointing a firearm at someone in a rude or angry manner can be criminally charged. [Ind. Code § 35-47-4-3] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my Indiana driver’s license linked to my Indiana carry license? | No. They are not automatically linked. However, officers can access license-to-carry information by name and date of birth. |
| PREEMPTION? Does the state have preemption laws related to concealed carry? | Yes, Indiana has preemption over firearms laws, with limited exceptions (courtrooms, local government buildings with screening, etc.). [Ind. Code § 35-47-11.1-2] |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Indiana? | No. There is no waiting period to purchase a handgun in Indiana. |
PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. Indiana does not exempt permit holders from background checks when purchasing firearms from dealers. Federal NICS checks still apply. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Indiana? | No. Indiana does not require a permit to purchase a handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Indiana? | No. Private sales do not require a background check, but federal laws regarding prohibited persons still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Indiana? | 18 years old. [Ind. Code § 35-47-2-7] |
| 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 a handgun on your own property or any property where you have permission without a license. [Ind. Code § 35-47-2-1(1)(b)] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Indiana? | No. There is no registration of handguns in Indiana. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF INDIANA HONOR? | Indiana honors all other states’ carry permits, both resident and non-resident. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF INDIANA? | The following states honor Indiana permits:
Note: You must follow each state’s carry laws when there. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF INDIANA? | Many states accept Indiana permits only with certain conditions. For instance, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, etc. Some require you to be an Indiana resident. Always check individual state laws. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? |
|
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Submit a request for a duplicate via the Indiana State Police Handgun Licensing Portal. A fee may be required. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Indiana Licenses are issued for either 5 years or for a lifetime, at the applicant’s choice. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Indiana State Police Firearms Licensing Portal |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Non-resident licenses are available for those who have a regular place of business or employment in Indiana and meet requirements. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF INDIANA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move to Indiana, you can apply for an IN License once a resident. If you leave Indiana, your license is valid until you establish residency elsewhere. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | The state fees are $0 for both 5-year and lifetime licenses. Electronic fingerprinting fees may apply. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Typically 60 days, once the application is complete. Delays may occur. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Update your info through the Indiana State Police Handgun Licensing Portal within 30 days of the change. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • Be at least 18 • Not be a felon or otherwise disqualified • Be a “proper person” with no violent or serious criminal history • Meet federal eligibility • Have a proper reason (e.g., self-defense) |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Complete application online. 2) Schedule electronic fingerprinting. 3) Complete local law enforcement process. 4) ISP reviews and mails license if approved. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | None. Indiana does not require firearms training for a carry license. However, training is strongly recommended. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1) Complete the renewal application online. 2) Schedule fingerprinting (if needed). 3) Visit local law enforcement for final steps. 4) Wait for approval via mail. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Anywhere not prohibited by law, subject to property owner restrictions and posted signs. Check local rules, especially court buildings, schools, etc. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • Schools, school buses • Certain childcare facilities • The State Fairgrounds • Government Center campus • Casinos • Courtrooms • Other places prohibited by law |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. Interfering with the lawful taking of game is prohibited. [IC § 14-22-37-2] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, an individual may carry a handgun while hunting. You must follow all hunting regulations (e.g., not legal to harvest certain game with a handgun outside firearm seasons). |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, you can carry a handgun, but you cannot use a handgun to take game during archery-only seasons. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Indiana prohibits some items like throwing stars (recently updated laws). Generally, open or concealed carry of knives is allowed, except in schools or on school buses. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | No statute in Indiana prohibits wearing a COVID mask while carrying. Being masked is not by itself illegal if not in furtherance of a crime. |
| ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Indiana has provisions aligning with LEOSA for qualified active/retired officers. Retired officers can qualify annually and obtain a LEOSA card via the ILEA. |
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.
