Concealed Carry in Pennsylvania
Carrying a concealed firearm in the Keystone State can be a powerful way for law-abiding citizens to protect themselves and their loved ones. However, navigating concealed carry laws Pennsylvania requires a careful understanding of the state’s statutes, court decisions, and reciprocity agreements.
Below, we’ll explore everything you need to know—from license requirements and open carry rules to self-defense protections under Pennsylvania’s Castle Doctrine. We’ll also look at the importance of concealed carry training and how Pennsylvania’s regulations compare to CCW requirements by state nationwide.
Table of Contents
Pennsylvania’s Shall-Issue Status
Pennsylvania is a shall-issue state, which means that as long as you meet the statutory criteria, your county sheriff (or the chief of police if you reside in a first-class city) must issue a License to Carry Firearms (LTC). This approach simplifies the application process, ensuring law-abiding citizens can more readily exercise their Second Amendment rights.
Age Requirement and Recent Legal Changes
- Minimum Age: The default minimum age for concealed carry in Pennsylvania is 21.
- Evolving Court Rulings: On January 15, 2024, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that laws barring 18- to 20-year-olds from obtaining a permit were unconstitutional. However, the Supreme Court overturned that decision on October 15, 2024. Therefore, the final outcome keeps the minimum age at 21 for acquiring a Pennsylvania LTC.
If you’d like to stay up to date with legal changes around firearms law, check out our gun owners resources page for more educational resources.
Applying for a License to Carry Firearms (LTC)
To obtain a Pennsylvania LTC, applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old and have resided in their county for at least 90 days.
- Meet eligibility requirements, which include being free of disqualifying criminal convictions or mental health commitments.
- Provide valid photo ID (a Pennsylvania driver’s license or state ID for residents; out-of-state residents must show a valid home-state permit).
- Submit an application and pay the required fee of $20.
- Pass a background investigation within the 45-day statutory period.
No Formal Training Required
One of the notable features of concealed carry laws Pennsylvania is that there is no mandated firearms course. Nonetheless, responsible gun owners know that concealed carry training is essential. Proper education in marksmanship, situational awareness, and Pennsylvania’s self-defense laws can significantly improve your ability to act safely and lawfully.
Open Carry and Vehicle Carry
Open Carry Nuances
Pennsylvania generally allows individuals 18 or older who can lawfully possess a firearm to carry openly without a license. However, a pivotal legal decision (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Darren Montgomery) has blurred the lines between open and concealed carry. In some cases, what appears to be “visible” might still be considered “concealed” under certain circumstances. Additionally:
- City of Philadelphia: You must have a valid LTC (or a reciprocal out-of-state license) to open carry.
- Vehicles: If you have a loaded firearm in a vehicle, you need an LTC or a recognized out-of-state permit, except under specific exceptions for law enforcement, active military, or certain others identified in state law.
Self-Defense Laws: Castle Doctrine & Stand Your Ground
Pennsylvania’s robust self-defense statutes—often called “Castle Doctrine” or “Stand Your Ground” laws—allow individuals to use force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death, serious bodily injury, kidnapping, or sexual assault. Notably:
- No Duty to Retreat: You are not required to retreat in your own home or any place where you have a legal right to be, provided you face a deadly threat.
- Protection of Property: You may use force to prevent trespass or unlawful removal of property if you believe such force is immediately necessary.
These self-defense provisions reinforce the idea that law-abiding citizens have the right to protect themselves and others when faced with imminent danger.
Places Off-Limits and Exceptions
Pennsylvania respects your right to carry but does enforce specific no-carry zones:
Schools (K–12) and Buses
Carrying firearms on elementary or secondary school property is generally prohibited, though a Pennsylvania court ruling (Commonwealth v. Goslin) introduced a possible defense for “other lawful purposes.” This remains legally uncertain, so consult an attorney or local laws for clarity.Courthouses and Certain Government Buildings
Check for posted signs or inquire with security. These facilities often have clearly designated secure areas where firearms are barred.Correctional Facilities
Jails, prisons, and other detention centers do not allow weapons.Philadelphia-Owned Buildings and Parks
Although state preemption law restricts local governments from enacting their own gun ordinances, Philadelphia has attempted stricter measures in city buildings and parks.Airports (Secured Areas)
You cannot carry in secured sections of airports or other places banned under federal law.
In addition, private property owners—such as hotels—may set their own firearms policies. If a property is posted “No Weapons,” ignoring that sign is not criminal by itself, but you could be asked to leave and potentially face trespassing charges if you refuse.
Reciprocity with Other States
Pennsylvania only honors resident concealed carry permits from states with which it has a formal reciprocity agreement. This means if you hold a non-resident permit from another state, Pennsylvania will not accept it unless you also hold resident status in that state.
Conversely, many states recognize Pennsylvania’s LTC. But keep in mind that CCW requirements by state vary widely, and laws can change. Always verify the regulations in any state you plan to visit while armed.
Other Key Provisions
- Magazine Capacity: Pennsylvania has no maximum capacity limit, although local attempts to restrict magazines have been overturned as violations of state preemption laws.
- Ammunition: Armor-piercing ammunition such as KTW Teflon-coated bullets is prohibited if possessed with criminal intent.
- No Duty to Inform: You do not have to tell a police officer you are carrying unless asked.
- No Red Flag Law: Pennsylvania has no official extreme risk protection order or “red flag” system on the books.
- Driver’s License Linked: When law enforcement runs your driver’s license, they will see you hold a Pennsylvania LTC.
For private handgun sales, a background check is required when selling to another private individual, except for transfers between spouses, parents and children, or grandparents and grandchildren. HandgunLaw.us maintains a great downloadable PDF for Pennsylvania’s firearms laws that you can find here.
Renewing and Maintaining Your LTC
Pennsylvania LTCs are valid for five years. You can renew up to 60 days before expiration. Depending on your county, you may even walk out of the sheriff’s office with a renewed card the same day if your background check clears promptly.
- Lost or Stolen Licenses: Report this to your county sheriff and pay a $5 replacement fee.
- Address/Name Changes: You must update your LTC if you move or legally change your name. This typically requires a $5 fee.
- Non-Residents: Out-of-state residents can apply for a Pennsylvania LTC if they already hold a carry permit in their home state. Non-resident LTCs also last five years.
Importance of Concealed Carry Training
While Pennsylvania imposes no mandatory coursework, every responsibly armed citizen should consider dedicated concealed carry training. Professional instruction covers marksmanship, situational awareness, and the legal use of force—giving you the knowledge and confidence to handle a critical incident safely and lawfully.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
Understanding concealed carry laws Pennsylvania is essential for anyone who values their Second Amendment rights. By staying informed on licensing procedures, reciprocity agreements, and self-defense statutes, you can responsibly exercise your freedom while keeping yourself and those around you safe.
Before traveling with your firearm, always check CCW requirements by state to avoid legal pitfalls. Above all, investing in concealed carry training will help you stay prepared and maintain the highest standards of gun ownership—protecting your rights and your loved ones for years to come.
Concealed Carry Laws Pennsylvania: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. Pennsylvania law does not prohibit purchasing or using pepper spray. Individuals can buy it and use it for lawful self-defense purposes. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Pennsylvania is a shall-issue state. County sheriffs (or the chief of police in a first-class city) issue concealed carry licenses (LTCs) if an applicant meets the legal criteria. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. Any person at least 18 years old and legally permitted to possess a firearm can open carry in Pennsylvania, except in a vehicle and in Philadelphia where a license/permit is required. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to own without a permit for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm. Use must be for reasonable self-defense and accompanied by instructions about the risks involved. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | Yes. A Pennsylvania LTC covers the concealed carry of short-barreled shotguns, short-barreled rifles, and handguns within specific barrel-length limits (under 26 inches in overall length). Measurements are taken from the muzzle to the face of the closed action, bolt, or cylinder. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. It is unlawful to possess KTW Teflon-coated or armor-piercing ammunition with the intent to use it in a crime. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. Pennsylvania does not have magazine capacity restrictions. Local attempts to impose such measures have been struck down under state preemption. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | The minimum age to obtain a Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms is 21. Court rulings in 2024 temporarily impacted 18- to 20-year-olds, but the final outcome is that you must be 21. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No. Pennsylvania does not have constitutional carry. You need a license to carry a concealed firearm or to carry openly in a vehicle or in Philadelphia. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | Yes. There is no specific prohibition against carrying in establishments serving alcohol, provided you have a valid LTC or a permit from a reciprocal state. However, private property owners may choose to post “no firearms” policies. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes. A valid Pennsylvania LTC or a reciprocal state permit allows you to carry concealed in Pennsylvania’s state and national parks, forests, and WMAs. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, but only with a valid Pennsylvania LTC or a license/permit from a state with which Pennsylvania has reciprocity. Otherwise, the firearm must be unloaded, with ammo stored separately, unless you qualify for one of the limited exceptions in § 6106(b). |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Pennsylvania statutes do not explicitly address firearms at hotels. Each hotel sets its own policy, so you should contact the hotel in advance to confirm its rules. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes, with a valid LTC or a permit from a state Pennsylvania recognizes. There is no specific law prohibiting concealed carry at rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Not addressed by Pennsylvania law. Employers may set their own policies for storing firearms in vehicles on company property. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. Pennsylvania does not grant public access to its concealed carry registry. This information is confidential and only available to law enforcement. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No. You do not have a legal obligation to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying concealed unless the officer specifically asks. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | No. Pennsylvania does not currently have a red flag law. There is no extreme risk protection order system in place. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No. Pennsylvania does not legally recognize “No Weapons Allowed” signs. However, if you refuse to leave upon request by a property owner, you could face trespassing charges. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Firearms laws on tribal lands can vary widely. Pennsylvania law does not govern tribal land; you must contact the specific tribal authority for its regulations. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | The statutes do not explicitly address carrying while under the influence. Nonetheless, carrying while impaired is highly discouraged as it can risk your safety and potentially lead to legal complications if an incident arises. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Non-residents who already hold a valid carry permit from their home state may apply for a Pennsylvania LTC, subject to the same process as residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | Pennsylvania does not define “brandishing” by name. However, disorderly conduct laws prohibit threatening or alarming behavior (e.g., waving or pointing a firearm without a legitimate reason). |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | Yes. When an officer runs your Pennsylvania driver’s license, it will indicate that you hold a License to Carry Firearms. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. Pennsylvania state law preempts local jurisdictions from regulating firearms, except for discharge regulations. Attempts by cities (e.g., Pittsburgh) to enact gun control measures have been ruled invalid under state law. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No. Pennsylvania does not impose a waiting period for handgun purchases. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. Having a Pennsylvania LTC does not exempt you from the background check required when purchasing a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | No. There is no special purchase permit required to buy a handgun in Pennsylvania. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes. Handgun transfers between private parties require a background check conducted through a licensed dealer or county sheriff, unless it is a transfer between spouses, parents and children, or grandparents and grandchildren. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18 years old. A person must be at least 18 to possess or transport a handgun in Pennsylvania. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. You do not need a LTC to carry a firearm in your home or place of business, provided you are otherwise legally permitted to own firearms. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No. Pennsylvania does not require handgun registration, although the State Police maintain a database of handgun buyers. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA HONOR? | Pennsylvania honors resident licenses from these states (licensees must be at least 21): Alabama (21+), Alaska, Arizona (21+ resident only), Arkansas (21+), Colorado, Florida (21+ resident only, handguns only), Georgia (21+), Idaho (21+ enhanced only), Indiana (21+), Iowa (21+), Kansas (resident only), Kentucky (resident only), Louisiana (resident only), Michigan (resident only), Mississippi (21+ resident only), Missouri (21+), Montana (21+), New Hampshire (21+ resident only), North Carolina (resident only), North Dakota (21+ Class 1 resident only), Ohio (resident only), Oklahoma (21+), South Dakota (21+ resident only), Tennessee (21+ resident only), Texas (21+ resident only), Utah (21+ resident only), West Virginia (21+ resident only), Wisconsin (resident only), and Wyoming (21+). |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA? | These states acknowledge Pennsylvania licenses (though you must follow their specific laws): Alabama (PC-19), Arkansas (PC-18), Idaho (PC-18), Indiana (PC-18), Montana (PC-18), New Hampshire (PC-18), North Carolina, North Dakota (PC-18), South Dakota (PC-18), Vermont (PC-18), Virginia, Wisconsin. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA? | Some states honor only Pennsylvania resident permits or impose additional requirements, including Alaska (PC-21), Arizona (PC-21), Colorado (21+ resident only), Florida (PC-21), Georgia (PC-21), Iowa (PC-21), Kansas (PC-21), Kentucky (PC-21), Louisiana (PC-21), Maine (PC-21), Michigan (21+ resident only), Mississippi (PC-21), Missouri (PC-19 or 18 for military), Nebraska (PC-21), Ohio (PC-21), Oklahoma (PC-21), South Carolina (PC-18), Tennessee (PC-18), Texas (PC-21), Utah (PC-21), West Virginia (PC-21), Wyoming (PC-21). Always verify specific state requirements before traveling. |
| 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+ or 18 for military), Montana (18+), Nebraska (21+), 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? | Visit your county sheriff’s office (or chief of police if in a first-class city) with proper ID. You will need to pay a $5 fee to have your LTC reissued. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Pennsylvania LTCs are valid for 5 years from the date of issuance. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Each county may have its own forms or online process. A sample application can often be found on the county sheriff’s website or by visiting the sheriff’s office in person. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Non-residents who already hold a valid permit in their home state may apply for a Pennsylvania LTC. The process is generally the same as for residents. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF LOUISIANA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | This question pertains to Pennsylvania, but if you move within Pennsylvania, you must update your address at the county sheriff’s office. If you become a resident of another state, your Pennsylvania LTC may no longer be valid once you establish residency elsewhere. For Louisiana-specific laws, consult that state’s statutes. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | An initial or renewed Pennsylvania LTC is $20. Some counties may charge administrative fees, but the standard statutory fee is $20. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The sheriff or chief of police has up to 45 days to investigate and either issue or deny the application. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must visit your county sheriff’s office with an updated driver’s license or state ID reflecting the new name/address. A $5 fee is required to reissue the LTC. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | Applicants must be at least 21, be a resident for 90+ days (or have a valid home-state permit if applying as a non-resident), and not be prohibited from firearm possession. Other disqualifiers include certain criminal convictions, mental health commitments, or dishonorable military discharge. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Obtain an application from your county sheriff or online if available. 2) Complete the form, stating your reason for carry and providing references. 3) Show valid ID (plus your home-state permit if you’re a non-resident). 4) Pay the required fee and have your photo taken. 5) Wait up to 45 days for the background check and approval. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Pennsylvania does not mandate formal training. However, all responsibly armed Americans are strongly encouraged to seek professional instruction in safe firearm handling and use. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1) You can renew up to 60 days before your LTC expires. If it has expired by more than 60 days, you must apply as a new applicant. 2) Complete a renewal application at your county sheriff’s office. 3) Provide your current/expired LTC and ID. 4) Pay the renewal fee (commonly $20, though additional fees may apply depending on the license style). 5) Await the background check and issuance, which could be immediate or by mail. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | With a valid Pennsylvania LTC (or reciprocal out-of-state permit): bars/restaurants serving alcohol, roadside rest areas, state/national parks, forests, WMAs, and most other public areas unless specifically prohibited by law or property owner. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | • Elementary and secondary schools (with some legal ambiguity under “other lawful purpose”); • Courthouses; • Correctional facilities and mental hospitals; • Certain government buildings (e.g. One Penn Center, some city-owned buildings in Philadelphia); • Secured airport areas; • Any place prohibited by federal law (e.g., federal buildings). |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is unlawful to obstruct or interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife. Violators may face legal consequences. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. With a valid LTC or reciprocal permit, you may carry a concealed firearm while shotgun or rifle hunting. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes. With a valid LTC or reciprocal permit, you may carry concealed even while bow hunting. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | It is legal to open or conceal carry any type of knife in Pennsylvania, although knives are prohibited on K-12 school grounds and in courthouses. Municipal ordinances (e.g., Philadelphia) may impose additional restrictions. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. Pennsylvania has no statute prohibiting wearing a COVID mask while legally carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Under LEOSA (HR 218), qualified current and retired law enforcement officers may carry nationwide, subject to specific annual qualification and ID requirements. Pennsylvania has additional guidelines for RLEOs under Title 37 Pa. Code CH. 221. |
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.
