Nevada Specific CCW Laws
Concealed carry laws Nevada can seem overwhelming at first, especially if you’re trying to stay compliant with CCW requirements by state. But whether you’re a new gun owner or you’ve carried for years, this guide aims to help you navigate Nevada’s statutes, understand concealed carry training obligations, and practice responsible self-defense. Read on to discover everything you need to know about carrying a concealed handgun in the Silver State.
Table of Contents
Why Understanding Nevada’s CCW Laws Matters
Carrying a concealed firearm is a right in Nevada, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. The state’s laws empower you to protect yourself and your family—yet ignoring them risks severe legal consequences. By fully understanding concealed carry laws Nevada has on the books, you’ll stay within the law while preserving your safety.
May-Issue vs. Shall-Issue vs. Constitutional Carry: Where Nevada Stands
Nevada is a shall-issue state. This means as long as you meet the requirements and pass the necessary background checks, you shall receive your concealed carry permit. Unlike a few other states, Nevada does not allow constitutional carry. In other words, you can’t just tuck a handgun in your belt without a permit—any concealed carry must be backed by a valid Nevada CCW.
Eligibility and CCW Requirements
Nevada’s CCW requirements by state can appear intricate if you’re not well-versed in firearms law. At minimum, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old (18 if active duty military).
- Be a lawful U.S. resident.
- Have no felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanors.
- Complete concealed carry training from a certified instructor.
- Pass a background check (including mental health and substance use screening).
Additionally, any convictions for domestic violence, stalking, or recent DUIs typically disqualify an applicant. If you have concerns about your eligibility, consult a firearms attorney.
Concealed Carry Training and Permits
Concealed carry laws Nevada imposes are deeply linked to training. Nevada requires an approved safety course with live-fire qualification before you apply. This concealed carry training includes:
- Safe handling and storage techniques.
- State laws regarding use of force.
- Live-fire exercises to demonstrate competence with handguns.
Once training is complete, fill out the CCW application at your county sheriff’s office (or police department if you’re in a larger city). You’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and pay a permit fee—usually around $96 for first-timers, though costs vary by county. Expect up to 120 days of processing time.
Reciprocity: How Nevada Honors Out-of-State CCW
Nevada recognizes certain out-of-state permits. The Nevada Department of Public Safety maintains a list of states whose CCW permits they honor. Keep in mind:
- If you’re a new resident moving into Nevada and already have a valid out-of-state permit, you must obtain a Nevada CCW within 60 days of establishing residency.
- Some states require the permit holder to be 21, so double-check that your home state meets Nevada’s reciprocity rules.
Carrying in Vehicles & Restricted Locations
- Vehicle Carry: You may carry openly in a vehicle if the firearm is visible. Without a permit, you can store the gun in a glove box or under a seat, provided it’s not physically concealed on your person.
- Non-Permit Holders: If you don’t have a CCW and hide a handgun on your person in the car, you’re violating Nevada law.
Restricted Areas: Concealed firearms are off-limits in:
- Public and private K–12 schools, including parking lots.
- Childcare facilities.
- Government buildings with metal detectors or posted signage.
- Secured airport areas.
- Anywhere specifically posted “No Firearms” in compliance with state regulations.
Interestingly, casinos typically have “No Firearms” policies as private property. Violation is usually treated as trespassing if you refuse to leave upon request.
Self-Defense and Use-of-Force in Nevada
Nevada adheres to Castle Doctrine and stand your ground principles. There’s no duty to retreat from your home or workplace if you’re there lawfully. However, the force you use must be proportional and immediately necessary:
- Self-Defense: The threat must be imminent, and your response must be a reasonable measure to stop the threat.
- Justifiable Homicide: Lethal force is justified if an aggressor attempts a violent crime or forcibly enters an occupied residence or vehicle with the intent to do harm.
- Civil Immunity: If your use of deadly force is justified, you’re generally immune from civil liability under state law.
For general information on self-defense laws, we list a number of excellent resources that you can see in our online resources section.
Knife Laws and Other Weapons
Nevada law does not require special registration of knives, and you can generally open or concealed carry most knives. However, certain local ordinances (e.g., in Clark County) place extra restrictions on larger blades. For “other weapons,” keep in mind your CCW is strictly for handguns; stun guns and Tasers are legal to buy and own but not covered by your handgun permit.
Where You Can & Cannot Carry
Places You Can Carry With a Permit:
- Private property (your home or business).
- Restaurants that serve alcohol, provided you’re not consuming alcohol.
- State parks, national forests, and roadside rest areas.
- Most public areas that aren’t clearly posted or otherwise restricted by law.
- Places You Cannot Carry:
- School campuses K–12, or within childcare facilities.
- Legislative buildings and any facility hosting active legislature business.
- Secured areas of airports.
- Private property where the owner prohibits firearms and asks you to leave.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
A key difference in concealed carry laws Nevada observes is that open carry is generally more lenient. You don’t need a permit to open carry if you’re 18 or older and can legally own a firearm. But for a loaded, concealed handgun on or close to your person (like in a waistband holster under clothing), you need your CCW permit.
Navigating Legal Pitfalls & Safe Practices
- Brandishing: No official brandishing statute, but it’s illegal to point a firearm “in a rude or threatening manner” at another person unless in self-defense.
- Red Flag Law: Nevada can seize firearms from individuals deemed a threat, known as a “red flag” scenario.
- Alcohol & Drugs: Don’t handle a firearm under the influence. A BAC of 0.08 or higher can land you in legal trouble if you’re caught carrying.
Final Thoughts - Policing the Brass
Previously Nevada used to have one of the better sets of CCW laws on the books, however with the rise of constitutional carry states, it has fallen behind.
If you would like a pdf that you can print out for easy reference, you can go here.
Navigating concealed carry laws Nevada offers is simpler when you’ve got the right facts—and this guide aims to help you stay compliant and safe. Following the proper permit process, completing concealed carry training, and understanding CCW requirements by state can help you exercise your rights responsibly. Whether you’re brand-new to concealed carry or just need a refresher, keep learning, stay informed, and remain vigilant about safety. The peace of mind you gain is well worth the effort.
Concealed Carry Laws Nevada: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in the state of Nevada? | Yes. Any person (except a convicted felon) may possess and use tear gas aerosol spray weapons not exceeding 2 fluid ounces. Sales must be documented, and only adults may purchase pepper spray. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.375] |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state of Nevada requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | Nevada is a shall-issue state. Concealed firearms permits (CFP) are processed by county sheriffs, and applicants who meet the qualifications must be issued a permit. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in the state of Nevada? | Yes. Anyone 18 or older 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 in the state of Nevada? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit in Nevada. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Nevada with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? | No. A Nevada concealed carry permit only allows for concealed handguns. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does the state of Nevada have ammunition restrictions? | Yes. The manufacture or sale of metal-penetrating bullets is prohibited. [Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 202.273] |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does the state of Nevada have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | No. There are no magazine capacity limits for handguns in Nevada. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in the state of Nevada to get a concealed carry permit? | You must be at least 21 years old to get a concealed carry permit. However, active-duty military personnel may apply at 18. [NRS 202.3657] |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state of Nevada allow constitutional carry? | No. Nevada does not allow constitutional carry. A permit is required to carry a concealed handgun. |
Carry Location Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in Nevada? | Yes, if you have a valid Nevada CFP or a permit from a state Nevada honors. There is no specific prohibition unless posted, and you must not be under the influence. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.257] |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in these areas? | Yes, with a valid Nevada CFP or a recognized permit. [Nev. Adm. Code § 407.105] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in the state of Nevada? | Yes, if you have a Nevada CFP or a recognized permit. Without a permit, the firearm must be visible if on your person or it must be stored in a concealed place away from your person (e.g., glove box, under a seat). [Nev. Rev. Stat. 202.350] |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Nevada? | Nevada law does not directly address this. Each hotel may develop its own policy. Contact the hotel to verify their firearms policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Nevada? | Yes, if you have a valid Nevada CFP or a recognized out-of-state permit. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.3673] |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does the state of Nevada have laws about storing firearms in private vehicles at an employee parking lot? | Not addressed in Nevada state law, so no specific statewide regulation. Employers can set their own policies. |
Key State Laws
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does the state of Nevada allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? | No. This information is only available 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 Nevada? | No. There is no legal requirement to inform an officer. However, if asked by a peace officer, you must present your permit and proper ID. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.3667] |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does Nevada have a red flag law? | Yes. A family member or law enforcement officer may request an order restricting firearm possession if a person is deemed a risk. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 33.500-33.670] |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are these signs enforced in Nevada? | No. “No Weapons” signs are not enforced by state law. They do not carry the weight of law unless it is on a prohibited property by statute. |
| TRIBAL LAND Can you carry a firearm on tribal land in the state of Nevada? | Carrying a concealed firearm on tribal land requires explicit permission from tribal authorities. Different tribes (e.g., Southern Ute, Ely Shoshone, Fort McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone) have varying rules. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Does the state of Nevada have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while under the influence? | Yes. It is unlawful to carry while having a BAC of 0.08 or higher, or if under the influence of drugs. This does not apply to someone in their personal residence with a firearm solely for self-defense. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.257] |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does the state of Nevada issue concealed carry permits to non-residents? | Yes. Non-residents may apply for a Nevada permit if they meet all qualifications. |
| BRANDISHING? Does Nevada law define brandishing? | No. However, aiming a firearm at someone or displaying it in a rude/threatening manner can result in criminal charges. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.290, § 202.320] |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is a Nevada driver’s license linked to the Nevada carry permit? | Yes. If law enforcement runs your driver’s license, they will be notified of your concealed carry permit status. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 202.3667] |
| PREEMPTION? Does Nevada law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns? | Yes. Nevada has statewide preemption, though local authorities can regulate discharge of firearms and carry by public employees on duty. [Nev. Rev. Stat. § 268.418] |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Nevada? | No. Nevada does not mandate a waiting period. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a permit exempt me from a background check in Nevada? | Nevada only exempts those with a Nevada CFP issued after July 1, 2011, from the background check. [NRS 202.2547] |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Nevada? | No. Nevada does not require a permit to purchase a handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Nevada? | Yes, all sales or transfers must go through a licensed firearms dealer for a background check as of January 2, 2020, with limited exceptions (e.g., transfers between immediate family members). [Nev. Rev. Stat. 202.2547 & 202.2548] |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What is the minimum age in Nevada to possess and transport a handgun? | 18. You must be at least 18 years old to possess and transport a handgun. [Nev. Rev. Stat. 202.310] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Can I carry a handgun at home without a permit? | Nevada law requires a permit to carry concealed anywhere. You may openly carry at home without a permit, but concealed carry at home also requires a permit. [Nev. Rev. Stat. §§ 202.350] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Do handguns need to be registered in Nevada? | No. Nevada does not require handgun registration. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF NEVADA HONOR? | Nevada honors permits from the following states (minimum age to carry is 21, unless otherwise noted): Alaska Arizona Arkansas Florida Idaho (enhanced permit only) Illinois Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi (enhanced permits only) Montana Nebraska New Mexico North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma South Carolina South Dakota (enhanced permits only) Tennessee Texas Utah Virginia West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF NEVADA? | These states recognize Nevada permits (follow their laws when you visit): Alabama (permitless, 19+) Arkansas (permitless, 18+) Idaho (permitless, 18+) Indiana (permitless, 18+) Montana (permitless, 18+) New Hampshire (permitless, 18+) North Carolina North Dakota (permitless, 18+) South Dakota (permitless, 18+) Vermont (permitless, 18+) Virginia Washington |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF NEVADA? | These states have specific conditions or only honor Nevada resident permits: Alaska (21+) Arizona (21+) Florida (21+) Georgia (21+) Iowa (21+) Kansas (21+) Kentucky (21+) Louisiana (21+) Maine (21+) Michigan (21+, resident only) Mississippi (21+) Missouri (19+, 18 for military) Nebraska (21+) New Mexico (21+) Ohio (21+) Oklahoma (21+) South Carolina (18+) Tennessee (18+) Texas (21+) Utah (21+) Virginia (21+) West Virginia (21+) Wisconsin (21+) Wyoming (21+) |
WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES?
| STATE | AGE/RESTRICTION |
|---|---|
| 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 18 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) |
| Louisiana | (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? | You must go to the issuing sheriff’s office and file an affidavit. A replacement fee of $15 may be charged, depending on the county. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Nevada concealed firearms permits are valid for 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Check your county sheriff’s office or Las Vegas Metro Police website for applications and instructions. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Non-residents may apply at a sheriff’s office if they meet all requirements. The application process is the same as for residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF NEVADA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move out of Nevada, your NV permit remains valid until expiration if you notify the sheriff of your address change (some counties may require you to surrender the permit upon permanent relocation). If you move into Nevada you may apply for a permit after establishing residency. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | The initial permit fee is around $96 (varies by county). Renewals cost ~$63. Fees may differ slightly depending on local policies. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | By law, the issuing authority has up to 120 days to process your application. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must notify the issuing sheriff’s office in writing within 30 days. A new permit with the updated info can be obtained for a fee (typically $15). Failure to report changes can lead to civil penalties. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | – Be at least 21 (or 18+ if active-duty military) – Be a lawful resident/citizen – No felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanors – Not habitually using drugs/alcohol – Complete approved firearm training – Meet federal and state law requirements |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Take a firearms safety course with live fire 2. Submit application in person at sheriff’s office 3. Provide required documentation (ID, training certificate, fees) 4. Undergo fingerprinting/photograph 5. Await approval (up to 120 days) |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Must attend an approved course (8 hours typical) with live fire qualification. Online courses are not accepted, and you must train in Nevada with a sheriff-approved instructor. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | – Renew any time before expiration (no early renewal credit) – Complete a refresher course – Submit renewal application + fees in person – Fingerprints/photograph again – Processing can take up to 120 days |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Bars/restaurants (unless posted/no intoxication) – Personal vehicle (with a permit if on your person) – Roadside rest areas – State/national parks, forests, WMAs (with a permit) – Private property unless otherwise prohibited by owner |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – K-12 schools and child care facilities – Public buildings with metal detectors or posted signs – Airports (secured areas) – College or university campuses – Prisons, jails, court buildings – Legislative buildings – Hoover Dam, Red Rock National Conservation Area – Any place prohibited by federal or state law |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to interfere with a person lawfully hunting or trapping. [Nev. Rev. Stat. 503.015] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may carry concealed while rifle/shotgun hunting with a valid CFP. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes. You may carry a handgun if the barrel is under 8″ and not used to take wildlife during archery season. [Nev. Rev. Stat. 503.150(2)] |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Nevada allows ownership of most knives. Concealing “dangerous weapons” (e.g., certain large knives, dirks, daggers) can be illegal. Possession on school grounds is prohibited. Clark County also restricts concealed blades ≥3″. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes, Nevada does not prohibit wearing a COVID mask while carrying. There is no statute criminalizing wearing a mask for health reasons. However, wearing a mask with intent to commit a crime is illegal. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Under LEOSA, qualified active/retired LEOs may carry nationwide. Nevada law (NRS 202.3678) has specific provisions for retired officers to qualify at least twice per year. |
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.
