No Second Amendment Here
New York has long been considered one of the more restrictive firearms states in the country. However, since the landmark 2022 Supreme Court ruling in NYSRPA v. Bruen, New York is now a “shall-issue” state, meaning that concealed carry permits must generally be issued if you meet the legal requirements. If you’ve ever wondered how concealed carry laws New York affect you, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ll walk through everything from permits and “duty to retreat,” to concealed carry training and how New York fits into CCW requirements by state.
Our goal is to help you better understand New York’s licensing procedures, firearm regulations, and your rights—so you can make informed decisions while exercising your Second Amendment liberties.
Table of Contents
New York’s Shift to a Shall-Issue State
Until recently, concealed carry licenses in New York were often considered “may-issue,” with applicants required to show “proper cause.” In June 2022, NYSRPA v. Bruen changed that standard, transforming the landscape for concealed carry laws New York and moving it toward shall-issue status. That means:
- Fewer Barriers for Law-Abiding Applicants – If you meet the legal requirements—age, residency, criminal history checks, and so on—issuing authorities must generally grant a license.
- Local Oversight Remains – Concealed weapons licenses are still handled at the county or city level by a judge, sheriff, or police commissioner.
Even with shall-issue in place, the application process in New York can be lengthy and detailed. Understanding those details is key to staying compliant.
Understanding the Licensing Process
Age & Residency
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a New York Pistol License (NYPL). Honorably discharged U.S. military personnel may apply even if they’re under 21.
- Residency Requirements: Applicants must live in New York or maintain a principal place of business within the state. Part-time residents and those primarily employed in New York may also be eligible.
Types of Licenses
New York offers several pistol license types, but the two most common are:
- Carry Concealed – Allows you to carry a handgun on your person in a concealed manner.
- Possess On Premises – Limits you to owning/possessing a handgun at a specific address (home or business).
Some of these licenses can include restrictions (e.g., only for target shooting or hunting). An unrestricted license is generally required to carry concealed outside of narrow purposes.
Application Steps
- Complete Handgun Safety Course – As of July 2022, New York law requires 16 hours of classroom training plus 2 hours of live-fire experience for most applicants.
- Gather Required Documents – Including proof of age, proof of residence/employment, references, and social media accounts for the past three years.
- Fingerprinting & Background Checks – You’ll be fingerprinted, and local authorities will run state and federal checks.
- Approval or Denial – A county judge, sheriff, or police commissioner will ultimately decide on the application.
Keep in mind that it can take up to six months or longer in certain counties to complete the process.
Key Details on Purchasing & Owning Firearms
Permit Required to Buy Handguns
Unlike most states, New York requires a valid pistol license to purchase a handgun. No purchase permit is needed for long guns, but all handguns must be registered with the county or city that issued the license.
Background Checks for Private Sales
Private sales or transfers must go through a licensed dealer, who will conduct a background check and file appropriate paperwork with the state. The only exception is for immediate family member transfers.
Waiting Period
There’s no formal waiting period in New York law, but the licensing and background check process itself can serve as a de-facto waiting period. In some cases, firearm transactions that yield a “delayed” result through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) may be held for up to 30 days.
Where You Can and Can’t Carry
Despite becoming a shall-issue state, concealed carry laws New York are still strict about certain locations. Here are some key restrictions:
No Carry in Bars & Restaurants That Serve Alcohol
- A recent law bans carrying firearms in establishments licensed to serve alcohol.
No Carry in State Parks, Roadside Rest Areas & Most Public Transit
- You cannot generally carry in state parks, national parks, or roadside rest stops within New York.
No Carry in NYC Without Special Endorsement
- You cannot carry a handgun into New York City unless your NYPL is validated specifically for city use or you possess a New York City-issued pistol license.
Private Property Is Default “No Carry”
- Under a 2022 law, property owners must post a sign stating firearms are allowed. If not, carrying a firearm on that property without explicit permission is considered a criminal offense.
Tribal Lands
- Tribal Nations may have their own regulations. For instance, the Oneida Indian Nation does not allow firearms, and rules can vary.
In addition, schools, government buildings, courthouses, and certain mental health or child care facilities are off-limits for concealed carry. Always look for posted signs or verify local rules before carrying.
Self-Defense Laws: Duty to Retreat
New York observes a version of the Castle Doctrine for self-defense inside your dwelling. However, if you are attacked outside your home and can safely retreat, you must do so. Deadly force may only be used if you:
- Face imminent threat of deadly physical harm;
- Cannot safely retreat; or
- Encounter specific violent felonies (e.g., attempted kidnapping, robbery, or forcible rape).
This duty to retreat means you must make every reasonable effort to avoid using lethal force in public, unless you have no other safe option. If you would like additional educational materials on self-defense laws, we have a dedicated firearms law section in our online resources guide.
Ammunition & Magazine Restrictions
- Ammunition: New York bans armor-piercing rounds and explosive projectiles. Purchasers must also submit to background checks for ammo transfers.
- Magazine Capacity: Handgun magazines are limited to 10 rounds. Any magazines obtained after January 15, 2013, with a capacity greater than 10 rounds, are prohibited.
Pepper Spray & Other Weapons
- Pepper Spray: Legal for self-defense under certain conditions. You must be at least 18 and have no felony convictions. Sales are restricted to licensed dealers, pharmacists, or firearms stores.
- Tasers & Stun Guns: Legal to buy and possess in New York as of April 2019, subject to local restrictions.
- Byrnas: In New York City, you need a police commissioner’s license to carry a Byrna. Elsewhere in the state, ownership is typically allowed, but pepper or other irritant projectiles are not.
Traveling & Reciprocity
New York does not recognize any out-of-state permits. Additionally, traveling with a handgun can be complicated. If you do not hold a valid NYPL:
- Federal Safe Passage (18 USC § 926A): Allows you to transport an unloaded, locked-up firearm through New York if you are in continuous transit to another state where you can lawfully carry.
- No Overnight Stops: Stopping at a hotel or making extended stays can violate state law if you lack a local license.
Because of these complexities, it’s crucial to review CCW requirements by state if you plan to cross into or out of New York with a handgun.
Importance of Concealed Carry Training
Training is now mandatory for most applicants (16 hours classroom + 2 hours live-fire). Investing in concealed carry training not only satisfies legal requirements but ensures you:
- Understand safe handling and storage;
- Know when and how to use force;
- Can demonstrate proficiency to local authorities or licensing judges.
With the new shall-issue framework, thorough concealed carry training can set you apart and expedite the process by showing you’re responsible and knowledgeable about firearms.
Tips for Staying Compliant
- Keep Your License Valid – Recertify every three years (or per county rules). Failure to do so can lead to suspension or revocation of your pistol license.
- Know Posting Rules – Private property defaults to “no carry” unless a sign states otherwise.
- Avoid High-Risk Areas – Places like Times Square, schools, and public transportation are off-limits.
- Follow Transport Laws – Keep firearms unloaded and locked separately from ammo while traveling unless you have a valid NYPL.
- Research Local Rules – Counties and cities may have additional restrictions, especially New York City, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk.
“No Carry” vs. “Where You Can Carry”
- Generally Off-Limits: Bars (serving alcohol), NYC (without validation), state parks, courthouses, and educational institutions.
- Generally Allowed: Private property (with posted permission), your own home or business (with an appropriate license), and certain rural areas if you meet hunting regulations and hold the correct license.
Additional Firearm Restrictions in New York City
New York City (NYC) imposes some of the toughest firearm regulations in the country. Although the entire state of New York is now shall-issue following NYSRPA v. Bruen, the five counties that make up New York City continue to enforce unique rules. These additional restrictions and processes can significantly impact how you apply for—and exercise—your right to carry within city limits. Below are the key highlights and must-know details for gun owners planning to be in NYC.
NYC Pistol License (NYCPL) Requirements
No Statewide Reciprocity Within NYC
- Simply having a valid New York Pistol License does not automatically allow you to carry in the city. A special validation by the NYC Police Department (NYPD) is required to carry a concealed handgun within the five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island).
New Options for Non-Residents
- In August 2024, the NYPD adopted an emergency rule allowing non-residents to apply for a New York City Pistol License (NYCPL). This is a significant change, as traditionally licenses were issued primarily to NYC residents or individuals with a principal place of business in the city.
No Training Required (With Exceptions)
- Although much of the rest of New York State mandates at least 16 hours of classroom training and 2 hours of live-fire, no training is required to obtain an NYCPL, except for residents of Westchester County or any local rules that may apply. (Always verify with local authorities as requirements can change rapidly.)
Separate Application Process
- NYC issues five types of pistol licenses—Premises License, Carry Business License, Limited Carry Business License, Special Carry License, and Carry Guard License.
- Applicants must create an online profile, submit all required documentation (passport photo, proof of residence/employment, reference letters, etc.), and await an interview with the License Division.
Magazine & Ammunition Restrictions
New York City follows many of the same restrictions as the rest of the state with a few added complexities:
- Magazine Capacity: Officially capped at no more than 10 rounds, though it has been the subject of repeated legal challenges.
- 7-Round Limit: City and state laws have attempted to limit loaded magazines to 7 rounds, but this portion was ruled partially unenforceable by U.S. District Courts. Practically, it remains in flux, so it’s wise to stay under 7 to 10 rounds to be safe.
- Prohibited Ammunition: Armor-piercing and explosive bullets are illegal, and all ammo sales must go through a licensed dealer who runs a background check on the buyer.
Strict Location Limitations
- No Carry in Bars/Restaurants Serving Alcohol
- As of July 2022, firearms are banned in establishments serving alcohol.
- No Carry in Parks & Transit
- Carrying a concealed firearm in NYC’s state/national parks, roadside rest areas, or on most public transportation is strictly prohibited.
- Hotel Policies Vary
- NYC statutes don’t specifically address hotel carry. Many hotels have private firearm restrictions, so always call ahead.
- Vehicle Transport
- If you don’t have an NYCPL, you are not permitted to stop within city limits. Transporting a handgun through the city must be “continuous and uninterrupted,” with the firearm unloaded and locked in the trunk (ammo in a separate locked container). Any overnight stay can put you in violation of city law.
Possession on Private Property
Under NYC law, you may keep a handgun in your home or business without a specific carry license if you legally own the premises and have completed the required steps for registering your firearm. For full details and potential exceptions, verify with the NYPD License Division.
NYC Knife & Non-Firearm Rules
- Knives: NYC prohibits carrying any knife openly unless you are going directly to or from an activity or job requiring its use (such as fishing or construction). Folding knives with a blade of 4 inches or more are tightly regulated if they can lock open.
- Stun Guns & Tasers: Legal to purchase as of April 2019. However, local laws may further restrict where and how you carry or store these devices.
- Pepper Spray: NYC follows the rest of the state’s self-defense spray rules, limiting canister size to ¾ oz. and requiring purchases through licensed dealers or pharmacists.
NYC Concealed Carry License Renewal
- Renewal Letters
- The NYPD will mail you a renewal letter with a PIN, required documents list, and payment instructions.
- Online Renewal
- Use your online profile to submit your renewal application, then mail your fee. Expect the License Division to contact you for any additional documents.
- Processing Time
- May take several months, so plan accordingly. Failure to renew in time can result in revocation of your license.
Important Takeaways
- Separate System: Although New York state is shall-issue, New York City has its own NYCPL system with more stringent rules.
- Continuous Travel: If traveling with a handgun, you must not stop in NYC unless you have the proper license endorsement.
- Frequent Changes: NYC firearm regulations are subject to rapid change, especially following major court rulings and local legislative actions. Always confirm the latest requirements with the NYPD License Division before carrying in the city.
Policing the Brass - Conclusion
The concealed carry laws New York have evolved significantly following the Bruen decision, but they remain among the most complex and stringent in the nation. From the licensing process—which may take several months—to the duties around safe handling, use of force, and strict location restrictions, understanding these laws is crucial. Equally important is completing concealed carry training so you can handle your firearm responsibly and stay within the bounds of New York’s regulations.
Stay safe, stay informed, and stay proactive in preserving your right to keep and bear arms.
For a downloadable guide to New York state gun laws, visit HandgunLaw.us for their PDF guide.
Concealed Carry Laws New York: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. The possession of “self-defense sprays” by persons who are not felons and who have not been convicted of an assault, and who are at least 18 years old for the protection of person or property and otherwise lawful use is legal. There are labeling requirements. The active ingredient must be oleo-resin capsicum, maximum net weight ¾ oz., and the canister must not appear to be anything but pepper spray. Sales require a seller’s license and purchaser registration form. No more than two sprays may be sold at one time to a single purchaser. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | New York is now a shall-issue state for concealed carry licenses. A New York Pistol License (NYPL) is issued at the local level by the county sheriff or court system. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Although it’s not directly mentioned in state law, a valid NY Pistol License is required for anyone over 21 to possess a loaded handgun outside the home or place of business. New York does not formally recognize open carry. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Based on a U.S. District Court ruling, stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license as of April 2019 in New York. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. A New York carry license only allows for handguns. Other weapons are not covered under this license. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. New York bans armor-piercing rounds and explosive bullets. Ammunition transfers require a check against the state’s electronic database plus valid photo ID from the buyer. A background check (and fee) is now required for all ammo purchases. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | Yes. Magazines are limited to 10 rounds. New York prohibits the manufacture, transportation, or possession of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. Exceptions exist for .22 tubular devices and certain grandfathered magazines. Loading more than 7 rounds in a 10-round magazine is legally contentious, though the relevant provision has been partially ruled unenforceable. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | 21 years old is the minimum age to obtain a concealed carry license in New York, with an exception for honorably discharged military personnel. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No. New York does not permit constitutional (permitless) carry of firearms. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | No. As of July 1st, 2022, legislation bans carrying firearms in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in New York. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | No. Concealed carry is not allowed in these areas throughout New York. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, but only under a valid NY Pistol License. Per Federal interstate transportation law 18 USC § 926A, firearms must be unloaded and locked away if traveling through without a NYPL. Stopping overnight without a NYPL is a violation of state law. Transport in or through NYC requires continuous and uninterrupted travel unless specifically licensed for the city. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | New York statutes do not directly address carrying at hotels. Individual hotels may set their own policies. Check with the hotel to confirm its policy on firearms. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | No. Concealed carry is not permitted at roadside rest areas in New York. [17 CRR-NY IV C 156.12] |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Not directly addressed by state law. Employers may have policies regarding firearms in parking lots, so confirm your workplace regulations. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | Yes, although gun owners can request their information be exempt from public disclosure. Law enforcement will always have access to the registry. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No. New York law does not require you to inform an officer unless asked. [N.Y. Pen. Law § 400.00(8)] |
| RED FLAG LAW? | Yes. New York’s red flag law allows police, DA’s, family/household members, and certain school officials to petition courts for orders removing firearms from individuals who may pose a threat to themselves or others. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No. However, as of July 1, 2022, private property in New York is assumed “no carry” unless the owner posts clear signage allowing firearms. Entering without such permission can lead to criminal possession charges. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Oneida Indian Nation does not allow concealed carry. Other tribal lands may have varying rules, so contact the respective tribal authority in advance. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | Not specifically addressed in state statutes. However, carrying while impaired is strongly discouraged and can lead to serious legal and safety issues. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Part-time NY residents or those with a principal place of business in New York may apply under the same process as residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | New York does not define “brandishing,” but menacing in the second degree or disorderly conduct could apply if you display a firearm in a threatening manner. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | No. A New York driver’s license is not automatically linked to a pistol license. Law enforcement can access permit information through their databases. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes, partial. Local governments can enact additional restrictions, especially regarding long guns, but general handgun licensing follows state law. [N.Y. Pen. Law § 400.00(6)] |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No formal waiting period, but obtaining a NY Pistol License may take up to 6 months. If NICS returns a “delayed” result, the transaction can be held for up to 30 days. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. A New York concealed carry license does not exempt you from passing a background check when buying a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | Yes, for handguns. A concealed carry license (NYPL) is required to purchase a handgun, but there is no permit required for long guns. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes. Private sales must go through a licensed dealer to conduct a background check. Exceptions exist for transfers between immediate family members. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 21. You must be at least 21 years old to possess or transport a handgun in New York. [N.Y. Pen. Law § 400.00(1)(a)] |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | No. You still need a valid pistol license and background check to possess a handgun in your home. [N.Y. Penal Law § 400.00(2)] |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | Yes. All handguns must be registered. Your NY Pistol License lists all registered handguns, including their caliber, make, and serial number. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF NEW YORK HONOR? | New York does not honor any other states’ concealed carry licenses. The one exception is New York City pistol licenses, which are valid statewide. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF NEW YORK? | The following states honor New York’s permit:
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF NEW YORK? | The following states have restricted reciprocity with New York (some only honor resident NY licenses):
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Permitless carry (constitutional carry) states include:
|
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | If your permit is stolen, report it immediately to the local police precinct and obtain a complaint number. Notify the Pistol Licensing Bureau right after that, and submit a $5 check or money order for a replacement license. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Licenses issued by NYC, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties expire every 3 years. Licenses issued elsewhere do not expire but must be recertified every 3 years with the state police. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes, for part-time NY residents or anyone with their principal place of business in the state. The process is the same as for residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF NEW YORK AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you relocate to New York, you can apply in the county where you reside or do business once established. If you move out of the state, your NY pistol license expires upon establishing residency in another state. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Fees vary by county. The initial license can cost around $20 plus a $10 recertification in some counties. Check your local authority for the exact fees. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Up to 6 months or more, depending on your county. This includes background checks and interviews. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must file an Address/Employment Change Report within 10 days. A $3 fee is charged. Failure to do so can lead to suspension or revocation of your license. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | You must be at least 21 (except for honorably discharged military), a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and must meet various moral character and criminal background standards. Some counties require a firearms safety course. You cannot have had a prior felony or serious offense conviction, be a fugitive, or have certain mental health disqualifications. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Complete a handgun safety course if required. 2) Obtain the official application forms for your county. 3) Provide references, photos, and relevant documentation. 4) Submit fingerprints and undergo local/state/federal background checks. 5) Attend an interview if required. 6) Await a decision from the licensing judge or sheriff. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | As of July 1, 2022, an applicant must complete 16 hours of classroom training plus 2 hours of live-fire practice, passing a written test with at least 80% proficiency. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | Licenses in NYC, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk must be renewed every 3 years. Outside those areas, you must recertify with state police every 3 years. Recertification is done online (no paper forms). If you fail to recertify, your license could be suspended or revoked. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Some premises where it’s allowed include your own home or business (with a valid permit). Some public places are permissible unless specifically posted as “no carry.” Forestry lands owned by the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry also allow carry, but many other public areas in NY do not. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits locations include schools (K-12 and college campuses), residential child care facilities, state parks (except certain hunting contexts), government buildings, public transportation, Times Square, and more as detailed under state law. NYC is off-limits unless your license is validated specifically for NYC. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. Interference with lawful hunting, fishing, or trapping is prohibited, including actions that would disrupt or harass individuals engaged in these activities. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, if you hold a valid NY Pistol License. You may carry a handgun while shotgun or rifle hunting. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | No. Bowhunters during a special archery season are not allowed to possess any type of firearm while in the field. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Knives can be legally carried if there’s no unlawful intent. Switchblades, pilum ballistic knives, cane swords, and other “dangerous” blades are generally prohibited. NYC and other municipalities have additional restrictions on blade length and open carry, so verify local ordinances. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | There is no known state law prohibiting wearing a COVID mask while carrying concealed. One loitering statute mentions masked gatherings but does not apply to legal concealed carry of a firearm. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Law Enforcement Officers can carry under LEOSA (HR 218), which generally allows qualified LEOs and retired LEOs to carry nationwide. Retired officers in NY can get certified via state-approved LEOSA instructors. Check with your county sheriff’s office for additional details. |
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.
