Concealed Carry Laws New Jersey: Forced into Shall-Issue
Until recently, New Jersey’s handgun permit process operated under more restrictive “may-issue” guidelines. However, it is now a shall-issue state. This means that if you meet the legal requirements, local municipal police departments (or the New Jersey State Police for non-residents) are generally obligated to issue you a permit to carry a handgun, referred to as a Permit to Carry a Handgun (PCH).
Although classified as shall-issue, the path to acquiring a PCH can be intricate. You must first gain approval from your local police chief, and then a Superior Court judge reviews your application. That extra judicial step is somewhat unique among CCW requirements by state.
Table of Contents
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for a Permit to Carry a Handgun in New Jersey, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Have no disqualifying criminal or mental health history.
- Provide four personal references who have each known you for at least three years.
- Demonstrate familiarity with the safe handling and use of handguns (via training).
Once you submit your application, which includes fingerprinting, a background check, mental health records search (Form SP 66), and other documentation, the local law enforcement agency has 60 days to approve or deny it. After receiving local approval, you bring your application to the Superior Court for final review. If approved, you’ll pay a fee (currently $200) and receive your permit, typically valid for two years.
Concealed Carry Training Requirements
Concealed carry training plays a pivotal role in concealed carry laws New Jersey. You must show that you can handle a firearm safely and are well-versed in New Jersey’s use-of-force laws. While the specific course or qualification may evolve, the general expectations include:
- Completion of a recognized firearms safety course.
- A demonstrated marksmanship test (minimum 50 scored rounds with 80% accuracy).
- Knowledge of New Jersey’s legal framework for self-defense.
Given that New Jersey does not honor any other state’s carry permits, it’s critical for residents and non-residents alike to complete the training requirements in-state.
Purchasing and Possessing Firearms in New Jersey
Buying a handgun in New Jersey requires:
- A Firearms Purchaser Identification (FPID) card.
- A separate permit to purchase each handgun (valid for 90 days, one handgun per 30-day period).
- A National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check, done through a federally licensed firearms dealer.
Even private sales require a handgun purchase permit and background check, with few exceptions (such as inheritance). Additionally, to buy handgun ammunition from a dealer, you must present an FPID or a valid permit to purchase/carry.
Open carry is not permitted in New Jersey. You can only legally carry concealed once you have a valid PCH.
Key Points of Concealed Carry Laws New Jersey
- No Open Carry
New Jersey prohibits open carry outright. - Duty to Inform
As of July 1, 2023, if a law enforcement officer stops you, you must inform them that you are carrying a concealed firearm. - Ammunition and Magazine Restrictions
You cannot possess more than 10 rounds per magazine. Hollow-point ammunition is heavily restricted, allowed only under limited circumstances like hunting or target shooting by sportsmen. - Carrying in a Vehicle
Without a PCH, firearms must be unloaded, locked in a separate container from ammunition, and inaccessible from the passenger compartment. - No Reciprocity
The state does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other states. - Non-Resident Permits
Non-residents must apply through the nearest NJ State Police station, following the same criteria as residents.
If you want more legal education materials, you can visit our online resources page here for more information on self-defense and Second Amendment law.
Castle Doctrine and Use of Force
New Jersey is a Castle Doctrine state, meaning there is no duty to retreat if you are in your own dwelling. The state’s statutes outline justifiable use of force in various scenarios:
- Self-Defense
Deadly force is permitted only if you reasonably believe it’s necessary to protect against death or serious bodily harm. - Defense of Property
Non-deadly force can be used to prevent theft, criminal mischief, or trespassing. - Defense of Others
You may use force on behalf of a third person if they could have lawfully used force themselves. - Defense of Premises
Force is justifiable to prevent trespassing or criminal acts on your property, with deadly force restricted to life-threatening situations.
These provisions highlight the importance of responsible ownership and the need for thorough concealed carry training. If you want legal education materials, we have a dedicated Gun Law section in our online resources guide.
Reciprocity and CCW Requirements by State
A critical element of understanding CCW requirements by state is recognizing the variety of regulations across the country. Unfortunately, New Jersey does not honor any out-of-state permits. That said, some other states with permitless carry do recognize a New Jersey PCH if you travel there. Always check local laws before crossing state lines with a firearm.
Locations Where Carry is Prohibited
Even with a valid PCH, New Jersey law restricts concealed carry in numerous places, including:
- Bars or restaurants serving alcohol (currently under legal challenge).
- Educational institutions (schools, colleges, daycares).
- Casinos.
- Government buildings, courthouses, and law enforcement stations.
- Wildlife management areas, state/national parks, and state forests.
- Any place prohibited by federal law.
Because state regulations change and legal challenges can alter enforcement, always keep up to date on the specifics of these restrictions.
Staying Informed and Responsible
Carrying a handgun is a serious responsibility that extends beyond simply holding a permit. Here are some best practices:
- Practice Regularly
Stay proficient with your firearm. - Refresh Your Knowledge
Firearms laws and regulations can change. Frequent updates ensure you stay compliant. - Safe Storage
When not carrying, lock your firearm in a secure container, especially if there are children in the home. - Monitor Legal Developments
Court rulings can affect your right to carry in certain locations, so follow reliable news sources.
Policing the Brass - Where to Go from Here
Navigating concealed carry laws New Jersey is challenging, but the state’s shall-issue status has made permits more accessible to eligible citizens. If you’re ready to take the next step:
- Enroll in a concealed carry training course taught by certified instructors.
- Gather your references, complete the application, and follow up with your local municipal police department.
- Stay current with changing regulations and remain a responsible, well-informed Second Amendment supporter.
To get a downloadable guide to New Jersey’s firearms laws, you can visit HandgunLaw.us for their free PDF guide here.
Concealed Carry Laws New Jersey: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. Any non-felon 18 or older may possess, for the purpose of self-defense, one pocket-sized device containing no more than three-quarters of an ounce of a chemical substance intended to produce temporary physical discomfort or disability. [N.J. Stat. Ann. 2C:39-6 (i)(1)] |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | New Jersey is a shall-issue state. Concealed weapons permits (referred to as a Permit to Carry a Handgun, or PCH) are issued at the local level by municipal police departments or by the New Jersey State Police, with final approval required by a Superior Court judge. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | No. Open carry is prohibited in New Jersey. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit for those 18 or older. However, it is illegal to possess these devices on the grounds of any school or similar institution without explicit authorization. [N.J. Stat. Ann. 2C:39-5, N.J.A.C. 13:54-5.8] |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. A New Jersey PCH only allows for concealed carry of handguns. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. You must have a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card, a permit to purchase a handgun, or a carry permit to buy handgun ammunition. The minimum age is 21. Hollow-point and armor-piercing ammunition is prohibited, with limited exceptions for sportsmen. [N.J. Stat. Ann. § 2C:39-3] |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | Yes. New Jersey limits magazine capacity to 10 rounds for handguns. [N.J. Stat. Ann. § 2C:39-1(y)] |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | 21 years old. An applicant must be at least 21 to obtain a PCH in New Jersey. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No. New Jersey does not allow constitutional (permitless) carry. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | No. A 2022 bill prohibits concealed carry in bars/restaurants where alcohol is served or sold for on-premises consumption. That portion of the law is temporarily overturned by a federal judge, pending appeal. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | No. Concealed firearms are not permitted in New Jersey’s state or national parks, forests, or WMAs. [NJ Admin. Code § 7:2-2.17(b)] |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, but only with a valid New Jersey PCH and under strict conditions. Without a PCH, firearms must be unloaded, locked in a container separate from ammunition, and inaccessible from the passenger compartment. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Not specifically addressed by New Jersey statutes. Hotels set their own policies, so it’s best to inquire with the establishment. Always ensure you have a valid NJ PCH if carrying. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes, with a valid NJ PCH. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | New Jersey law does not specifically address storing firearms in private vehicles on an employer’s property. Employers may have their own policies. |
KEY STATE LAWS
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. The public cannot access New Jersey’s concealed carry registry, although law enforcement can. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | Yes. As of July 1, 2023, you must inform a law enforcement officer if you are carrying a concealed firearm. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | Yes. New Jersey allows family or household members (or law enforcement) to petition for an extreme risk protection order, preventing an individual from possessing firearms. [N.J. Stat. Ann. § 2C:58-21] |
| NO WEAPONS ALLOWED SIGNS ENFORCED? | No. There is no specific statute enforcing “No Weapons Allowed” signs in New Jersey. Violating such a sign is not a criminal offense under state law. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Not specifically addressed in the text. Generally, carrying on tribal land is subject to each tribe’s sovereign laws. Check local tribal regulations before carrying. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | Not addressed in New Jersey statutes. However, it is unwise to carry under the influence of alcohol or any substance that impairs judgment. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Out-of-state residents must apply to the New Jersey State Police station nearest to their location using the same process as residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | The term “brandishing” is not defined in New Jersey law. However, acts of threatening or putting someone in fear of serious injury may be charged under disorderly persons or assault statutes. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | No. A standard driver’s license is not linked to a carry permit in New Jersey. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. New Jersey state law supersedes local laws regarding the possession of handguns. [NJ Stat. Ann. § 2C:1-5(d)] |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? | Yes. At least 7 days must pass from the date of application for a permit to purchase a handgun. Obtaining the permit itself can take up to 30 days (45 days for non-residents). |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. A New Jersey carry permit does not exempt you from needing a background check when purchasing a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | Yes. New Jersey requires a handgun purchase permit (valid for 90 days) for each handgun you buy. A lifetime Firearms Purchaser Identification Card is also required for long guns and handgun ammunition purchases. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes. A permit to purchase and a background check via a federally licensed dealer are required, unless the firearm is inherited by a qualified heir or legatee. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 21 years old. You must be 21 to possess or transport a handgun in New Jersey. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. You may keep or carry a firearm on land you own or occupy, including your home or business, without a permit. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | New Jersey does not require formal registration, but maintains purchase records for handguns. Firearms purchased out of state and moved into New Jersey can be voluntarily registered via Form S.P. 650. |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES NEW JERSEY HONOR? | None. New Jersey does not honor concealed carry permits from any other state. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH NEW JERSEY? | The following states honor permits from New Jersey:
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH NEW JERSEY? | These states have restricted reciprocity with New Jersey. Some only honor resident permits or have other conditions:
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | The permitless carry states (also called “constitutional carry” or states with certain permitless conditions) are:
|
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Contact your local municipal police department or the closest New Jersey State Police office for instructions on replacing a lost or stolen permit. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Permits are valid for 2 years in New Jersey. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | New Jersey’s application can be found via the New Jersey State Police or your local municipal police department website. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Out-of-state residents may apply at the NJ State Police station nearest to their location. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF NEW JERSEY AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | New Jersey issues both resident and non-resident permits. If you move out of New Jersey but already have a valid NJ permit, it remains valid until expiration. You should submit any name/address change forms to remain compliant. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | $200 is the current fee for a New Jersey Permit to Carry a Handgun. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The permitting authority has 60 days to approve or deny your application. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Contact your local municipal police department or the nearest New Jersey State Police office. They will advise you on how to submit updated information. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | Applicants must:
|
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Complete required firearm training. 2. Fill out the state application (ensure you’ve been fingerprinted and have an SBI number). 3. Provide four references and obtain passport-style photographs. 4. Submit your application to the local police chief or NJSP, then present it to a Superior Court judge if approved locally. 5. Pay the required fee. 6. Await issuance or denial (up to 60 days). |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Applicants must pass a certified firearms course covering safety, New Jersey use-of-force laws, and demonstrate live-fire proficiency (50 scored rounds, 80% accuracy, safe holstering/unholstering, reloading). |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | Permits must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal process mirrors the original application, with updated training required by the deadline set by the state. Applicants must also submit updated references, photographs, and fees. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | With a valid NJ PCH, you may carry:
|
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Prohibited locations include (but are not limited to):
|
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to interfere with an individual engaged in the lawful taking of wildlife. [N.J. Stat. Ann. 23 § 7A-2] |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, with restrictions if you’re hunting with a shotgun or rifle, as long as you have a valid NJ PCH and you do not use the handgun to take wildlife. However, it is unlawful to have both a firearm and bow in your possession during a bow hunt. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | No. It is unlawful to have both a bow and a firearm in your possession or under your control while bow hunting. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | You may carry any legal knife openly or concealed. It is illegal to possess a gravity knife, switchblade, dirk, dagger, stiletto, or other dangerous knife for unlawful purposes. Additional local restrictions and rules apply to schools and other institutions. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | There is no known statute in New Jersey that prohibits wearing a COVID mask while carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Law enforcement officers (active or retired) may carry under LEOSA (federal HR 218) and must also follow additional state guidelines for qualification and ammunition. Retired officers must requalify twice a year with each firearm they intend to carry. |
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.
