Introduction
Louisiana is a state with a deepening respect for the Second Amendment and a long tradition of responsible firearm ownership. As of July 4th, 2024, concealed carry laws Louisiana make it possible for certain adults to carry a concealed firearm without a permit.
However, there are important nuances, especially when it comes to reciprocity, local regulations, and concealed carry training requirements for those seeking a Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all the details—from basic eligibility to critical CCW requirements by state—so that you can carry confidently and legally throughout the Bayou State.
Table of Contents
Louisiana: A Snapshot of Gun Laws
Permitless Carry
- Beginning July 4th, 2024, anyone at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without a permit in Louisiana.
- A lawsuit by Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) is currently challenging restrictions on non-residents concealed carrying in Louisiana. Because of this, non-residents should confirm the rules with local authorities before carrying without a permit.
Shall-Issue State
- Louisiana remains a shall-issue state for those who choose to apply for a CHP.
- Concealed Handgun Permits (CHPs) are overseen by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety.
Open Carry
Anyone 18 or older who can legally possess a firearm may openly carry in public without a permit.
Purchasing and Registration
- No permit is required to purchase a handgun from a private individual.
- No gun registration is required.
- No waiting period exists for gun purchases.
Self-Defense and Castle Doctrine
Louisiana is a “Castle Doctrine” state, which includes “stand your ground” provisions. This means:
- No Duty to Retreat: You are not required to retreat if you face an imminent threat where you have the legal right to be.
- Right to Meet Force with Force: Deadly force can be used if you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent serious harm to yourself, another person, or to stop a forcible felony.
- Defense of Others: You may lawfully intervene on behalf of another person if that individual would also be justified in using deadly force.
These protections extend to your home (the “castle”), business, or motor vehicle under specific circumstances, but always remember that the burden is on you to prove your belief of an imminent threat was reasonable.
We maintain a list of legal education resources that you can find in our online resources section if you’d like more information on self-defense law.
Concealed Carry Permit (CHP): Why You Might Still Want One
Even with Louisiana’s shift to permitless carry, many people still benefit from holding a CHP. Reasons include:
Travel Across State Lines
Other states have CCW requirements by state that may demand a recognized permit. Holding a valid Louisiana CHP can help you stay within the law when visiting states that honor Louisiana’s permits.
Alcohol-Serving Establishments
Some restrictions vary between permit holders and non-permit holders. Verifying your status with a CHP can sometimes reduce confusion, though Louisiana law still bans carry in bar areas.
Ease of Purchase
Louisiana five-year concealed handgun permits issued on or after March 9, 2015, exempt you from a background check when purchasing a firearm (lifetime permits do not qualify for this exemption).
Formal Training
Securing a permit ensures you’ve completed concealed carry training, including safe handling, cleaning, marksmanship, and the laws around justifiable force.
The Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit Process
While concealed carry laws Louisiana now allow certain people to carry without a permit, the following steps apply if you opt for a CHP:
Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old (18 if simply carrying under permitless carry, but 21 to get a CHP).
- Be a Louisiana resident or a member of the military permanently stationed in Louisiana with a state ID or driver’s license.
- Complete a state-approved firearms training course.
- Have no disqualifying criminal convictions or patterns of violent behavior.
Application Steps
- Complete Training: Must be a Louisiana-approved course or equivalent (e.g., NRA handgun safety course, law enforcement course, or military training documented via DD-214).
- Gather Documents: This includes notarized affidavits, driver’s license, training certificate, and if applicable, divorce decrees or arrest records.
- Fingerprinting: Obtain two sets of fingerprints at an authorized location.
- Submit Application: Send all documentation with the proper fee to the Louisiana State Police Concealed Handgun Permit Unit.
- Await Approval: The state police will notify you of acceptance or denial.
Permit Validity and Renewal
- Standard permits are valid for five years; lifetime permits are also available.
- Renewal requires refresher concealed carry training, completion of updated forms, and submission of the renewal fee.
Traveling with Firearms: Reciprocity & Non-Resident Considerations
- Reciprocity: Louisiana honors permits from states that recognize its CHPs. Always check each state’s rules—CCW requirements by state can vary significantly, and laws change frequently.
- Non-Resident Permits: Except for military members stationed in Louisiana (holding a LA driver’s license or ID), Louisiana does not issue non-resident permits.
- Lawsuit Alert: The Firearms Policy Coalition has challenged Louisiana’s ban on non-residents carrying concealed. Until resolved, consult legal authorities or confirm with the state police if you are a non-resident planning to carry without a permit.
Location Restrictions in Louisiana
Even with concealed carry laws Louisiana, there are places you cannot carry:
- Schools and School Buses
- Law Enforcement Offices and Buildings
- Jails, Prisons, or Detention Facilities
- Courthouses and Courtrooms
- Polling Places on Election Day
- Public Meetings of Government Entities
- State Capitol Building
- Airport Secure Areas
- Permitted Parades or Demonstrations
- Another Person’s Private Residence Without Permission
- Establishments Serving Alcohol for On-Premises Consumption (bar areas)
- Casinos (designated gaming areas)
Meanwhile, many areas are legal to carry, including:
- Your Vehicle: Allowed for most law-abiding citizens, even without a permit.
- Roadside Rest Areas: No prohibition against concealed or open carry.
- State and National Parks: With a recognized CHP, you can generally carry inside these parks.
- Places of Worship: As of August 1, 2020, you can carry with permission from someone in authority, although the bar or lounge area, if one exists, is off-limits.
Duty to Inform & Other Regulations
- Duty to Inform: If a law enforcement officer stops you, Louisiana law requires you to inform them you are carrying a concealed weapon.
- Brandishing: There is no specific “brandishing” statute, but negligent carrying—acting in a way that places others in fear or risk of accidental discharge—can lead to legal issues.
- Alcohol or Controlled Substances: Carrying while under the influence (0.05% BAC or higher) is prohibited.
- Preemption: Louisiana enacted statewide preemption, which prevents local governments from imposing stricter gun laws than those set at the state level.
Importance of Concealed Carry Training
Even though permitless carry makes it easier to legally carry a firearm, concealed carry training remains vital for responsible gun ownership. Training helps you:
- Understand how to safely load, store, and maintain your firearm.
- Learn the legal boundaries of self-defense, including how “stand your ground” applies.
- Build marksmanship skills to handle high-pressure situations effectively.
- Navigate reciprocity and CCW requirements by state if you travel with your firearm.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
Concealed carry laws Louisiana have undergone notable changes, allowing many adults aged 18 and older to carry concealed without a permit starting July 4th, 2024. Still, a Concealed Handgun Permit offers clear benefits such as interstate travel flexibility, an exemption from certain background checks for handgun purchases, and formal training for safer handling. Always be sure to stay updated on any legal challenges or changes, especially if you’re a non-resident.
By understanding the laws, completing any necessary concealed carry training, and staying mindful of CCW requirements by state, you’ll be well-equipped to responsibly exercise your Second Amendment rights in Louisiana. Whether you’re a new firearm owner or an experienced gun enthusiast, this knowledge will help you carry confidently and safeguard both yourself and your community.
If you’d like a downloadable pdf that you can reference, HandgunLaw.us maintains one that you can find here.
Concealed Carry Laws Louisiana: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray? | Yes. There is no law in Louisiana prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If a permit is required to carry a concealed firearm, how are permits issued? | Louisiana is a shall-issue state. Concealed Handgun Permits (CHPs) are handled by the Department of Public Safety. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Louisiana? | Yes. Anyone at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm may open carry without a permit. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to buy and possess without a permit in Louisiana. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns with a concealed carry permit or under permitless carry? | No. A Louisiana concealed carry permit covers only handguns. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Are there any ammo restrictions in Louisiana? | Yes. Armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited under state law. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Are there magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. Louisiana places no limits on handgun magazine capacity. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age to get a concealed carry permit? | Louisiana allows concealed carry at 18 under permitless carry (effective July 4, 2024), but you must be 21 to apply for a CHP. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does Louisiana allow permitless (constitutional) carry? | Yes. As of July 4, 2024, anyone 18 or older who can legally own a firearm may carry it concealed without a permit. A lawsuit is ongoing regarding non-resident carry. |
Carry Location Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol? | Any establishment selling alcohol for consumption on the premises is off-limits to CHP holders. Bar areas in restaurants are also off-limits, and some places may post signs prohibiting firearms. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas? | Yes. If you have a recognized permit (including a Louisiana CHP), you may carry concealed in these locations. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle? | Yes. Generally, it is legal to carry a handgun in a vehicle without a permit under Louisiana law. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property? | Louisiana statutes don’t specifically address this. Each hotel may set its own rules, so check with the hotel for its firearm policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Is concealed carry allowed at roadside rest areas? | Yes. Louisiana does not prohibit concealed carry at roadside rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Are there laws about storing firearms in private vehicles at work? | Yes. Employers cannot prohibit a legally possessed firearm locked and hidden from view in a privately owned vehicle, unless firearms are banned by state or federal law on that property. |
Key State Laws
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does Louisiana allow public access to its concealed carry registry? | No. The public cannot access Louisiana’s concealed carry registry information. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Do you have to notify an officer if you’re carrying a concealed firearm? | Yes. Louisiana law requires that you inform law enforcement if you are carrying concealed. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Louisiana have a red flag law? | No. Louisiana does not currently have a red flag law in place. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are these signs legally enforceable in Louisiana? | No. Louisiana statutes do not specifically mention criminal penalties for ignoring “No Weapons Allowed” signs. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land? | You must obtain written permission from the appropriate tribal authority (e.g., Chitimacha, Coushatta, Jena Band of Choctaw, Tunica-Biloxi) to carry on tribal land. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Are there restrictions on carrying while under the influence? | Yes. It is not allowed with a BAC of 0.05 or higher or if under the influence of a controlled substance. Responsible firearm ownership means not carrying while impaired. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Louisiana issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Only to members of the military permanently stationed in Louisiana with a valid LA driver’s license or LA state ID. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Louisiana define brandishing? | No. Louisiana law refers to “negligent carrying” of a firearm, which involves carrying, displaying, or discharging a handgun in a way that places others in apprehension of a crime. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is a Louisiana CHP linked to a Louisiana driver’s license? | Yes. When an officer runs your driver’s license, it will show that you are a concealed handgun permit holder. |
| PREEMPTION? Does Louisiana have statewide preemption of gun laws? | Yes. As of August 1, 2020, all firearm regulations are preempted at the state level, preventing local governments from enacting stricter rules. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after buying a handgun? | No. There is no mandatory waiting period for handgun purchases in Louisiana. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a Louisiana CHP exempt you from a background check when purchasing a firearm? | Yes, if you have a five-year CHP issued on or after March 9, 2015. Lifetime permits do not qualify for this exemption. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to buy a handgun? | No. You do not need a permit to purchase a handgun in Louisiana. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private firearm transfers? | No. Louisiana does not mandate background checks for private sales, though federal prohibitions on purchasers still apply. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun? | 18. A person must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Louisiana. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I carry a handgun at home without a license? | Yes. Anyone who can legally own a firearm may carry it on property they control without a permit. However, you must have consent to carry into someone else’s private residence. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Must handguns be registered? | No. Louisiana does not require handgun registration. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES LOUISIANA HONOR? | Louisiana honors permits from the following states that recognize Louisiana permits (minimum carrying age is 21): Alabama (permitless carry, 21+) |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH LOUISIANA? | The following states honor Louisiana permits under certain conditions: Alabama (19+) |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH LOUISIANA? | These states have specific restrictions or only honor resident Louisiana permits: Alaska (21+) |
WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES?
| STATE | AGE RESTRICTION/NOTES |
|---|---|
| Alabama | (permitless carry, at least 19 years old) |
| Alaska | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Arizona | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Arkansas | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Florida | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Georgia | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Idaho | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Indiana | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Iowa | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Kansas | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Kentucky | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Maine | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Mississippi | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Missouri | (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military) |
| Montana | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Nebraska | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| New Hampshire | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| North Dakota | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Ohio | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Oklahoma | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| South Carolina | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| South Dakota | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Tennessee | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| Texas | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Utah | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Vermont | (permitless carry, at least 18 years old) |
| West Virginia | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
| Wyoming | (permitless carry, at least 21 years old) |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Notify the Louisiana State Police Concealed Handgun Permit Unit with a notarized statement describing the loss/theft. Include any police reports. A replacement permit will be mailed to you. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Louisiana concealed handgun permits are valid for 5 years. Lifetime permits are also available under certain conditions. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Online Application | Application Packet/Form |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Only for military members permanently stationed in Louisiana who hold a Louisiana driver’s license or state ID. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF LOUISIANA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Moving to Louisiana: You can apply once you have a Louisiana driver’s license or ID. Moving out of Louisiana: Your permit becomes invalid. You must return it to the Department of Public Safety. If you return to Louisiana later, you must reapply. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | – $125 for initial permits or renewals (65+ or active duty military: $62.50) – Lifetime permit: $500 (65+ or active duty military: $250) – Honorably discharged veterans are exempt from all fees |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | There is no specific processing time mandated by Louisiana law. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must notify the Louisiana State Police within 30 days of any change. Failure to do so may result in permit suspension of up to 30 days. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | – At least 21 years old – Completed a firearms training course – Louisiana resident or military stationed in LA – US citizen – No disqualifying criminal history – Meets federal requirements |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Complete required training. 2. Apply online or download application. 3. Get fingerprinted. 4. Submit documents & fees. 5. Await approval notification. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Approved courses include NRA handgun classes, LA Department of Public Safety classes, certain law enforcement classes, or documented military small arms training (DD-214). A refresher course is required for renewals. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | – Renew within 60 days after expiration or reapply as new – Complete firearms refresher training within 1 year prior to renewal – Submit forms, fee, and proof of training – You’ll be notified if approved or denied |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Restaurant dining areas (bars off-limits) – Private vehicle – Roadside rest areas – State/national parks, forests, WMAs – Places of worship (with permission) |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Schools, school buses – Law enforcement buildings – Jails, prisons, courthouses – Polling places – Government buildings (used for official meetings) – State Capitol – Airport secure areas – Permitted parades/demonstrations – Private residences without consent – Bars/bar areas – Casino gaming areas – Locations prohibited by federal/state law |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to interfere with lawful hunting, trapping, or fishing activities. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. Concealed carry is allowed while shotgun or rifle hunting in Louisiana. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes. Bow hunters may carry a firearm of any caliber on their person while hunting with a bow. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Legal to own/open or concealed carry most knives, except automatic switchblades may not be concealed. Knives are not allowed on school property or buses, and some local ordinances (e.g., Shreveport) prohibit knives in certain government facilities. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. No state law bans wearing a COVID mask while armed. However, wearing a mask to conceal identity with criminal intent is illegal. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Under LEOSA (HR 218), qualified active/retired LEOs can carry nationwide. Louisiana has specific annual qualification requirements for retired officers. |
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.
