Introduction to Concealed Carry Laws Nebraska
When it comes to understanding concealed carry laws Nebraska, it’s important to see the bigger picture of how the state balances public safety with your Second Amendment rights. As of April 25, 2023, Nebraska joined the growing list of CCW requirements by state that now allow constitutional (permitless) carry.
However, despite the new permitless carry provisions, there are still essential guidelines that apply. By exploring everything from concealed carry training requirements to key regulations concerning firearms purchases, this article will paint a comprehensive picture of responsible concealed carry in Nebraska.
Table of Contents
Nebraska’s Shift to Constitutional Carry
After Governor Jim Pillen signed Legislative Bill 77 into law on April 25, 2023, Nebraska became the 27th state to enact constitutional carry. For law-abiding citizens aged 21 or older, Nebraska now permits the concealed carrying of handguns without needing a state-issued permit in most areas. However, obtaining a Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) remains an option and offers various benefits, such as streamlined handgun purchases and reciprocal privileges when traveling.
The Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP)
Despite constitutional carry, the Nebraska State Patrol continues to process concealed handgun permits for residents and certain non-residents (namely military personnel stationed here). For many, the CHP remains advantageous, especially if you plan to travel across state lines. Nebraska also recognizes certain out-of-state permits if those states have standards equal to or greater than Nebraska’s.
Key CHP Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Must have lived in Nebraska for the past 180 days or be active-duty military stationed in Nebraska.
- Must successfully complete concealed carry training approved by the state.
- Must pass a vision test (often fulfilled by having a valid driver’s license).
- Must not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law.
Upon approval, your permit is valid for five years. Renewals can be applied for starting four months before expiration.
Purchasing a Handgun in Nebraska
Buying a handgun in Nebraska requires either a firearm purchase certificate or a valid concealed carry permit. These documents confirm you have passed a background check:
Firearm Purchase Certificate:
- Obtained through your county sheriff’s office.
- Valid for three years from the issue date.
- Requires a background check, a short waiting period of up to three days, plus a small fee.
Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP):
- Automatically qualifies you for handgun purchases without a new background check.
- Bypasses the need for a separate purchase certificate.
Where You Can and Can’t Carry
While concealed carry laws Nebraska allow permitless carry for most adults aged 21 or older, some locations remain off-limits. A Nebraska CHP still has its own rules:
Allowed Locations
- Vehicles: You can carry openly or concealed if you comply with local ordinances. Some cities, such as Omaha, may require a permit for loaded carry in a car.
- Restaurants Serving Alcohol: Legal in the restaurant area, provided you are not consuming alcohol.
- State & National Parks, Wildlife Management Areas: Concealed carry is largely allowed unless specifically posted.
- Rest Areas: Permitted with a CHP or under constitutional carry but remain vigilant if an area is otherwise posted.
Off-Limits Locations
- Schools (K-12, Colleges)
- Police Stations, Sheriff’s Offices
- Courthouses
- Detention Facilities, Prisons, Jails
- Bars Primarily Selling Alcohol
- Private Businesses with “No Guns” Signs
- Places of Worship (unless specific permissions granted)
- Federal Buildings
- Locations That Prohibit Firearms by Federal Law
Keep in mind that local ordinances, especially in Omaha or Lincoln, might add extra layers of regulation, including potential registration or additional steps for open carry.
Self-Defense and Use-of-Force
Nebraska embraces castle doctrine principles inside your home and workplace, meaning there is no duty to retreat if you face a serious threat in these areas. Meanwhile, so long as you are reasonably in fear for your life or of serious bodily harm, you may use force — including deadly force. However, if you are outside your home or workplace, existing law traditionally requires you to attempt retreat first, if it can be done with complete safety.
If you would like additional legal educational materials on Second Amendment and self-defense law, we maintain a list of excellent online resources that you can find here.
Firearms Training Considerations
While Nebraska now permits constitutional carry, concealed carry training remains crucial. If you opt to get a CHP, Nebraska law requires you to pass a training course covering:
- Safe firearm handling
- Ammunition knowledge
- Shooting fundamentals
- Justifiable use of force laws
- Avoiding and defusing dangerous situations
Completing a recognized training course not only helps you meet CCW requirements by state, but it also fosters responsible gun ownership and handling skills.
Travel and Reciprocity
Under constitutional carry, you can carry concealed in Nebraska without a permit if you meet the criteria. Yet when you travel outside Nebraska, your permitless carry privileges do not necessarily apply. Many states require a recognized permit. Should you choose to obtain a Nebraska CHP, the state has reciprocity with numerous states (like Idaho, Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, and others), making interstate travel more convenient.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
Nebraska’s new constitutional carry law underscores the state’s commitment to safeguarding Second Amendment rights while ensuring public safety. From the optional concealed handgun permit process to city-specific ordinances, comprehending concealed carry laws Nebraska requires careful attention to detail — especially if you plan to travel or navigate local rules.
For Nebraskans or newly arriving residents, staying informed about firearm certificates, understanding potential local requirements (as in Omaha or Lincoln), and seeking out top-notch concealed carry training are fundamental steps toward confident, responsible gun ownership. By following the guidelines and demonstrating prudent firearm use, you can exercise your right to self-defense while honoring Nebraska’s laws and values.
If you would like a downloadable guide to Nebraska’s laws you can visit HandgunLaw.us for their free guide.
Concealed Carry Laws Nebraska: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Nebraska? | Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Nebraska. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If Nebraska requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Nebraska is a shall-issue state. Permits are issued at the state level by the State Patrol Department. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in Nebraska? | Yes, without a permit for anyone at least 18 years old who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, local governments (e.g. Omaha) may impose additional restrictions. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Nebraska? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit in Nebraska. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Nebraska with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | No. A Nebraska concealed carry permit applies only to handguns. Other weapons are not covered under the permit. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Nebraska have ammunition restrictions? | No. Nebraska does not have ammunition restrictions. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Nebraska have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. Nebraska law does not limit magazine capacity for handguns. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in Nebraska to get a concealed carry permit? | You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a concealed carry permit in Nebraska. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does Nebraska allow constitutional carry? | Yes. On April 25, 2023, Governor Pillen signed LB 77, making Nebraska the 27th constitutional carry state. Qualified individuals may carry concealed without a permit. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Nebraska? | You can concealed carry in the restaurant area of an eatery that serves alcohol with a Nebraska CHP or a recognized out-of-state permit, unless posted, and provided you do not consume alcohol. Carry is prohibited in bars or bar areas of restaurants. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Nebraska? | Yes, with a Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit or an honored out-of-state permit, unless otherwise posted. Permitless carry provisions do not explicitly address parks. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Nebraska? | Yes. You may carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a permit if it is in plain sight. Some localities (e.g., Omaha) require a permit for loaded carry in a vehicle. Under LB 236, a firearm can be transported unloaded, with ammo separate, to or from locations where firearms are lawfully possessed, carried, or used. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Nebraska? | Private businesses (including hotels) may prohibit concealed carry on their property. They must post signage or request removal of the firearm. Contact the hotel for its specific policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Nebraska? | Yes, with a Nebraska concealed handgun permit or a permit from a state Nebraska honors. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does Nebraska have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot? | Yes. A permit holder may keep a concealed handgun locked inside a vehicle’s glove box, trunk, or compartment (or in a secure storage box attached to the vehicle) even in a posted parking lot, as long as the firearm remains locked inside before exiting the vehicle. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does the state allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? | No. Nebraska keeps concealed carry registry information confidential, though it is accessible to law enforcement. |
| 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 Nebraska? | Yes. A permit holder has a duty to inform law enforcement that they are carrying a concealed handgun during an official contact. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does the state have a red flag law? | No. Nebraska does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Nebraska? If yes, violating the sign would be considered a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. | Yes. Property owners can prohibit concealed carry. Violating these signs or failing to leave when requested can be a legal violation. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in Nebraska? | Rules vary by tribe. For example, the Omaha Tribe and Winnebago Tribe prohibit firearms, while the Ponca Tribe allows carry with any valid permit. Always contact 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? | Yes. You may not carry a handgun under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Controlled substances lawfully prescribed and used in therapeutic amounts are an exception. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does the state issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Yes, but only to active-duty military members (and spouses) stationed in Nebraska. They are treated as Nebraska residents. |
| BRANDISHING? Does the state law define brandishing? | No. The state does not explicitly define “brandishing,” but threatening another person in a menacing way may be charged as assault in the third degree. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my Nebraska driver’s license linked to my Nebraska carry permit? | Yes. A law enforcement officer will be informed you’re a concealed carry permit holder when they run your driver’s license. |
| PREEMPTION? Does the state have preemption laws related to concealed carry? | Yes. Nebraska has preemption over firearm regulations, but some cities like Omaha impose local rules (e.g., registration, vehicle carry) that can still apply. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Nebraska? | No. There is no waiting period under Nebraska law. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does my current Nebraska concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? | Yes. A valid Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit exempts you from an additional background check for handgun purchases. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Nebraska? | Yes. A handgun purchase certificate or a CHP is required to buy or receive a handgun in Nebraska, including private transactions (family transfers exempted). |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Nebraska? | Yes. The buyer must have a handgun certificate or a CHP (both require a background check). Exceptions exist for transfers between close family members. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Nebraska? | 18 years old. Exceptions allow minors under direct supervision for firearm instruction or other lawful purposes. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? | Yes. A permit is not required for lawful possessors to carry a concealed handgun on their own property if circumstances would prompt a prudent person to carry for defense. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Nebraska? | No statewide registration. However, Omaha requires handgun registration, and Lincoln mandates reporting certain firearm sales. CHP holders are exempt in Omaha. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF NEBRASKA HONOR? | Nebraska honors permits from states that meet or exceed Nebraska’s permit standards. They include (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old): Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida (handguns only), Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, New York City, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming. The minimum age is generally 21. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH NEBRASKA? | Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19), Arkansas (18), Idaho (18), Indiana (18), Minnesota, Montana (18), Nevada, New Hampshire (18), New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota (18), South Dakota (18), Vermont (18), Virginia, Wisconsin. Always check the local laws of the state you’re visiting. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH NEBRASKA? | Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wyoming. These states impose additional conditions or only honor resident permits. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Alabama (19), Alaska (21), Arizona (21), Arkansas (18), Florida (21), Georgia (21), Idaho (18), Indiana (18), Iowa (21), Kansas (21), Kentucky (21), Louisiana (21), Maine (21), Mississippi (21), Missouri (19, 18 for military), Montana (18), New Hampshire (18), North Dakota (18), Ohio (21), Oklahoma (21), South Carolina (18), South Dakota (18), Tennessee (18), Texas (21), Utah (21), Vermont (18), West Virginia (21), Wyoming (21). |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Notify the Nebraska State Patrol within 10 days and request a replacement permit. You may not carry until the replacement is issued. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Nebraska State Patrol Permit Application |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes, but only for military personnel (and spouses) permanently stationed in Nebraska. They are treated as Nebraska residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF NEBRASKA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move out of state, your Nebraska permit is no longer valid. If you move into Nebraska, you must reside there for 180 days or hold a recognized out-of-state permit if you’re a new resident. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | $100 initial permit fee; $50 renewal fee ($4.50 extra if renewed online). |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | 5 days after the application is submitted. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must notify the Nebraska State Patrol within 30 days and submit the prescribed form (online or by mail). Include your updated driver’s license and concealed handgun permit. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | • 21+ years old • Resident for the past 180 days or recognized out-of-state permit holder • Pass firearms training • Pass a vision test • Not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. • Other eligibility criteria as outlined by Nebraska statutes. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | • Complete an approved training course • Fill out and notarize the application • Present necessary documents (training certificate, proof of citizenship, ID) to a State Patrol office • Submit fingerprints, photo, and signature • Await approval/denial notification |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Applicants must complete a Nebraska State Patrol-approved course covering safe handgun handling, applicable laws, marksmanship fundamentals, and related topics. Training must be done within 3 years prior to application. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | • Renew within 4 months prior to permit expiration • Late renewal has a 30-day grace period post-expiration • Pay renewal fee ($50 + $4.50 online) • Provide driver’s license and current CHP at a State Patrol office • New permit valid 5 years from expiration date of old permit |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Legal in most places, including restaurant areas (no alcohol consumption), vehicles (depending on local ordinances for loaded carry), roadside rest areas, and state/national parks unless posted. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits areas include police/sheriff stations, courthouses, jails, schools (K-12, universities), meetings of government bodies, places of worship (unless allowed), bars primarily selling alcohol, private property with posted signage, and anywhere prohibited by federal law. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to knowingly interfere with someone lawfully hunting, trapping, or fishing. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | No. It is unlawful to possess a firearm while hunting antelope or deer under archery or muzzleloader permits, except in a vehicle’s enclosed area. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Open carry of knives is allowed. Concealed carry of blades over 3.5 inches (capable of inflicting certain injuries) is prohibited. Felons and certain individuals are further restricted. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | There is no known statute in Nebraska preventing the wearing of a COVID-19 mask while lawfully carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Retired officers may qualify under LEOSA. Qualifications are handled through the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center (NLETC), or by a certified firearms instructor under agency approval. |
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.
