A Constitutional Carry State
Kentucky is well known for its strong support of the Second Amendment, making it a welcoming state for law-abiding gun owners. As a shall-issue and permitless carry state, Kentucky grants responsible adults the right to carry concealed firearms without a license under most circumstances. This article provides a detailed look into concealed carry laws Kentucky, including self-defense statutes, reciprocity agreements, and the importance of concealed carry training. Whether you are already a proud firearm owner or considering your options, understanding these laws is key to staying informed and confident in exercising your rights.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Kentucky Gun Laws
- Permitless Carry: As of July 1, 2019, anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm may carry it concealed without a permit or license.
- Shall-Issue State: Kentuckians who want a Concealed Carry of Deadly Weapons (CCDW) license for out-of-state travel or additional benefits will find that Kentucky processes licenses under a shall-issue framework through the State Police.
- No Waiting Period or Registration: Kentucky law does not impose a waiting period for firearm purchases, nor does it require registration of firearms.
- Background Checks: Required only for purchases through a Federal Firearms Dealer. No background check is necessary for private sales, although federal prohibitions on purchasers still apply.
- Open Carry: Legal for anyone 18 years or older who may lawfully possess a firearm.
Concealed Carry and Permitless Carry in Kentucky
Permitless Carry Basics
Thanks to permitless carry, law-abiding citizens 21 years or older do not need a CCDW license to carry a concealed firearm within Kentucky. This policy offers substantial freedom but also comes with the expectation that gun owners handle and carry their firearms responsibly.
- Minimum Age: 21 for concealed carry without a permit.
- Legal Possession: Anyone not prohibited from owning a firearm (e.g., no felony convictions or active domestic violence orders).
- Reciprocity Note: If you plan to travel out-of-state while carrying, you might still need a Kentucky CCDW license because other states’ laws—often referred to as CCW requirements by state—may not honor mere permitless carry.
CCDW License (Concealed Carry of Deadly Weapons)
If you wish to legally carry concealed in states beyond Kentucky, you’ll need a Kentucky CCDW license. The CCDW license also covers more than just handguns—it extends to some less common defensive tools like knives, clubs, and brass knuckles.
Key Points of the CCDW License
- Training Requirement: Must complete a Kentucky-approved concealed carry training course, which includes safe firearm handling, cleaning, and marksmanship fundamentals.
- Application Process: Apply through the sheriff in your county, pay the required fee, and submit your proof of training and a passport-style photo.
- Renewals: Valid for five years, with a renewal fee of $60. Renew on time to avoid late fees.
Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine
Kentucky strongly upholds a person’s right to defend themselves, their loved ones, and their property against unlawful aggression. The state’s stand-your-ground law removes any requirement to retreat if you have a legal right to be where you are. Under castle doctrine principles, you have the right to meet force with force—even deadly force—if you reasonably believe it’s necessary to prevent serious harm or a forcible felony in your home, vehicle, or residence.
Justification and Immunity
- If you act within the law, you are immune from criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits, as long as the individual against whom force was used was not a peace officer performing lawful duties.
- Reasonable belief of imminent threat is crucial—your perception of danger must be one that a prudent person would share under similar circumstances.
For more information about self-defense laws and second amendment related laws we have compiled additional resources that you can find in our firearms owners’ resources page.
Location Restrictions
Where You Can Carry
- Personal Vehicles: Any person at least 21 years old can have a loaded firearm in the vehicle. Kentucky law also prevents employers from banning employees’ firearms kept in locked vehicles.
- State/National Parks: Legally permissible unless the park sits on Army Corps of Engineers (COE) property, in which case federal regulations may apply.
- Roadside Rest Areas: Concealed carry is allowed.
Where You Cannot Carry
- Schools (K-12): Including school grounds, buses, and activities.
- Child-Care Facilities: Daycare centers and certified family child-care homes.
- Bars: Any location deriving more than half its income from the sale of alcohol.
- Courtrooms: Or courthouse areas where court functions take place.
- Places Prohibited by Federal Law: Such as certain federal buildings or secure areas of airports.
Reciprocity and Traveling with Your Firearm
Kentucky honors concealed carry licenses or permits from all other states, so long as the permit is valid and the holder is at least 21 years of age. Conversely, many states recognize or have limited recognition of Kentucky’s CCDW. However, each state enforces its own CCW requirements by state, so verify local regulations before traveling.
States with Permitless Carry
A growing number of states have adopted permitless or “constitutional” carry, including neighbors like Ohio and Tennessee (with some age restrictions). Still, if you plan to cross state lines, a CCDW license can simplify compliance with other state regulations. However, the list of states that recognize permits from constitutional carry states is short.
The Importance of Concealed Carry Training
Even though concealed carry laws Kentucky do not mandate licensing for in-state concealed carry, concealed carry training remains essential for safe and confident firearm handling. Through training, you can:
- Learn Firearm Safety: Proper handling, storage, and cleaning of firearms.
- Understand Legal Implications: Gain clarity on legal use of force, stand-your-ground laws, and brandishing concerns.
- Hone Marksmanship Skills: Experience with live-fire drills ensures greater accuracy and comfort under stress.
- Get Reciprocity Benefits: Official training is a prerequisite for a CCDW license, which grants broader out-of-state carry privileges.
Kentucky’s training courses typically last up to eight hours and include both classroom instruction and live-fire qualification, requiring at least 11 out of 20 shots to hit the silhouette on a full-sized target.
FAQs About Concealed Carry Laws Kentucky
Is there a waiting period to buy a handgun in Kentucky?
No. Kentucky does not require a waiting period for firearm purchases.Must I inform a police officer that I’m carrying?
There is no duty to inform unless the officer specifically asks.What about carrying a firearm while hunting?
You can concealed carry while hunting so long as you’re legally allowed to possess firearms.Can I legally store a firearm in my vehicle at work?
Yes. Employers cannot prohibit you from keeping a lawful firearm locked in your vehicle on company property.Do “No Weapons” signs have the force of law?
Generally, no. Unless posted in locations specifically off-limits by law, ignoring a sign is not automatically a criminal offense—though you may be asked to leave.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
Kentucky’s blend of concealed carry laws Kentucky and strong self-defense statutes makes it a top choice for any law-abiding gun owner. While the permitless carry framework simplifies in-state concealed carry, a CCDW license remains valuable for those traveling beyond Kentucky’s borders. Above all, taking concealed carry training is the hallmark of a responsible firearm owner, ensuring that you’re prepared, knowledgeable, and confident in exercising your Second Amendment rights.
Whether you’re new to firearms or a seasoned enthusiast, staying well-informed on CCW requirements by state and up to date on your home-state regulations is crucial. Kentucky’s gun laws offer remarkable freedom, but with freedom comes responsibility. Continue to train, stay within the law, and always respect the safety of those around you as you defend your right to bear arms.
For more information and a downloadable guide with details on the specific laws and more, you can visit HandgunLaw.us here.
Concealed Carry Laws Kentucky: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Kentucky? | Yes. There is no statute in Kentucky prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray or other chemical sprays. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Kentucky is a shall-issue state. Licenses are issued by the Kentucky State Police. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Kentucky? | Yes. Anyone who is at least 18 years old and legally able to possess a firearm may open carry without a license. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Kentucky? | 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 Kentucky with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | Yes. According to Kentucky law, a Concealed Carry of Deadly Weapons (CCDW) license covers handguns as well as knives (other than ordinary pocket/hunting knives), clubs, blackjacks, nunchaku, shuriken and brass knuckles. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 500.080] |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does the state have ammunition restrictions? | Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited in Kentucky. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 237.060(7) and 237.080(1)] |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Kentucky have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions in Kentucky. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Kentucky to get a concealed carry permit? | The minimum age is 21 to carry a concealed firearm and to qualify for a CCDW license. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | Yes. As of July 1, 2019, permitless (constitutional) carry is legal for individuals at least 21 years old who can legally possess 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 Kentucky? | You may concealed carry in the dining area of a bona fide restaurant that seats at least 50 persons, provided that less than 50% of its income is from alcohol sales. You cannot carry in the bar area or in a bar, unless posted otherwise. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 237.110(16)(e), 244.125(3)] |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas in Kentucky? | Yes, permitless for anyone at least 21 years old who can lawfully possess a firearm. However, be aware of possible separate rules on Army Corps of Engineers lands. Always confirm local guidelines before carrying. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Kentucky? | Yes, for anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm. Those 18 or older may keep a loaded firearm in a glove box, console, or center compartment in a vehicle. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 527.020] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Kentucky? | Private businesses may prohibit concealed firearms on their premises, but Kentucky law specifically prevents “facilities renting or leasing housing” from restricting the possession of firearms in those units. For the public areas of a hotel, it is at the hotel’s discretion. Check with the hotel for its policy. [KRS § 237.110(17)] |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Kentucky? | Yes, you may concealed carry at roadside rest areas in Kentucky. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does Kentucky have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? | Yes. Employers cannot prohibit firearms locked in a personal vehicle on the property if you are legally entitled to possess the firearm. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.106] |
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, though law enforcement can access it. CCDW license information is not open to public records requests. |
| 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 Kentucky? | No, unless the officer asks you directly. There’s no legal requirement otherwise. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 237.110(15)] |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does the state have a red flag law? | No. Kentucky does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Kentucky? | Not generally, unless they are posted in places specifically off-limits by law (e.g., certain government buildings). Otherwise, violating a posted sign in a private business may result in being asked to leave or trespassed. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Kentucky? | Each tribal land sets its own rules. Always check with the specific tribe regarding its firearms policy. |
| 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? | Kentucky statutes do not specifically address carrying under the influence. However, as a responsibly armed American, it is discouraged to carry while impaired, as doing so can have severe legal consequences if you must use your firearm. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does the state issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Only for members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty assigned to a military post in Kentucky. |
| BRANDISHING? Does the state law define brandishing? | No. The term “brandishing” is not defined in Kentucky law. However, threatening behavior with a firearm could constitute disorderly conduct or other charges. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my Kentucky driver’s license linked to my Kentucky carry license? | Yes. Law enforcement will see your CCDW status if they run your driver’s license. |
| PREEMPTION? Does the state have preemption laws related to concealed carry? | Yes. The state has broad preemption on firearms regulation. However, some local limits are allowed on carrying in city or county buildings and other specifically allowed places. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 65.870, 237.115(2)] |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Kentucky? | No. There is no waiting period for handgun purchases. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does my current state concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? | Yes. Kentucky CCDW permits exempt the holder from additional background checks at the time of purchase from a licensed dealer. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Kentucky? | No. No purchase permit is required to buy a handgun in Kentucky. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Kentucky? | No. Private transfers do not require a background check, although you should ensure the buyer is legally allowed to own firearms. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in the state? | 18 years old. However, you must be 21 or older to carry a handgun concealed outside of your home or vehicle (except if you have a CCDW license or are on your own property). |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? | Yes. Permitless carry applies on your private property. There is no law restricting you from having a handgun in your home or business if you are legally allowed to possess firearms. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Kentucky? | No. Kentucky does not require registration of handguns. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF KENTUCKY HONOR? | Kentucky recognizes all valid out-of-state concealed carry permits. Kentucky also allows permitless concealed carry for those 21+ who can legally possess a firearm. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF KENTUCKY? | The following states honor Kentucky permits:
Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of those states. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF KENTUCKY? | These states honor Kentucky permits with various restrictions (like resident-only or age restrictions):
Confirm specifics with each state before traveling. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? |
*PC-18 or PC-21 indicates the minimum age for permitless carry. |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | You must fill out a request for a duplicate license at the sheriff’s office in your county of residence and pay a $15.00 fee to the Kentucky State Police. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 5 years from the date of issuance. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Kentucky CCDW Application |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Only to active-duty military personnel assigned to a military post in Kentucky. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF KENTUCKY AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move to Kentucky and become a resident, you may apply for a CCDW license once you meet the residency requirement. If you move out of Kentucky, your license becomes invalid once you establish residency in another state. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Initial license: $60 total ($20 to sheriff, $40 to Kentucky State Treasurer). Renewals: $60. Late renewals +$15 if beyond expiration date. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The application must be processed within 90 days. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must notify the Kentucky State Police in writing within 30 days of your address change and complete the form (KSP Form 121) through your county sheriff. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • Be at least 21 years old • U.S. citizen or legal resident • Kentucky resident (or active-duty military in KY) • Complete firearms training • Not disqualified from firearm possession • Meet other statutory requirements |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Complete a training course 2. Bring certificate + passport photo to the sheriff 3. Complete application under oath 4. Pay fee ($60) 5. Wait up to 90 days for issuance |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Must complete a state-approved firearms safety course (usually up to 8 hours), covering safe handling, storage, marksmanship basics, and relevant Kentucky law. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1. KSP sends notice 120 days prior 2. Return renewal form and $60 fee before expiration 3. Late fee of $15 if submitted after expiration 4. If expired 6+ months, must apply as new |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Anywhere not prohibited by law, including your home, vehicle, or on private property with permission. You must be 21+ to carry concealed in public under permitless carry. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • K-12 schools • Childcare facilities • Bars (or bar areas) • Police stations, jails • Courthouses • Government meetings • Areas posted “No Guns” per state law • Federal buildings or other prohibited places |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to intentionally obstruct or disrupt the taking of wildlife by lawful hunters, trappers, or fishermen. [Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 150.710] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may carry concealed while hunting if you can legally possess a firearm. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, it is legal to carry a concealed firearm while bow hunting in Kentucky. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Kentucky does not ban knife types. CCDW licenses cover certain knives. Knives are prohibited in schools/buses, etc. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Kentucky has no statute preventing wearing a COVID mask while carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Peace officers and retired officers may carry under LEOSA. Additional state-specific information can be found from the Kentucky State Police or local agencies. |
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.
