When it comes to carrying a firearm for personal protection, understanding what is considered concealed carry is crucial to staying compliant with state and federal laws. Whether you are new to firearms or an experienced gun owner, knowing how your firearm must be carried—and when it is legally considered concealed—is a vital part of responsible gun ownership.
At Concealed Coalition, we have trained more than one million law-abiding citizens nationwide through our local in-person and online concealed carry certification courses. Our mission is to ensure that every carrier, regardless of their state’s laws on permitless or constitutional carry, receives the education and training necessary to act safely, legally, and confidently.
What Is Considered Concealed Carry?
Concealed carry generally refers to the practice of carrying a handgun or other firearm in a manner that is not visible to the average observer. When asking what is considered concealed carry, it typically means the weapon is hidden under clothing, inside a bag, or carried in a way that is not readily noticeable to the public.
However, the definition can vary slightly by state. Some states have specific language that classifies a firearm as “concealed” even if part of it is visible, as long as it is not fully exposed. This is why it is important for every gun owner to know their specific state’s interpretation and laws.
Examples of considered concealed carry include:
- A handgun holstered inside the waistband and covered by a shirt or jacket
- A firearm stored in a purse, backpack, or briefcase
- An ankle holster hidden under a pant leg
- A firearm carried in a fanny pack that is not immediately obvious
Failure to properly understand what is considered concealed carry can lead to unintentional violations, even in states where constitutional or permitless carry laws are in effect.
Why Does It Matter How a Firearm Is Carried?
Knowing what is considered concealed carry matters because it directly impacts your legal standing. Carrying a firearm improperly could result in criminal charges, loss of your firearm rights, and other serious legal consequences. Even in states with constitutional carry, individuals are expected to abide by certain standards when carrying a concealed weapon.
Additionally, some states differentiate between open carry and concealed carry in their statutes, and the penalties for violating concealed carry laws are often much stricter than for open carry infractions.
Concealed Coalition strongly encourages all individuals who carry a firearm to complete appropriate training. Our national training programs, both online and in-person, provide the legal education and practical skills necessary to help you avoid costly mistakes and carry confidently within the law.
Common Misconceptions About Concealed Carry
One of the biggest misconceptions is that simply owning a firearm gives you the right to carry it however you choose. In reality, whether or not you need a permit depends on your state—and how you carry your weapon impacts your legal obligations.
Another misunderstanding is that if a gun “prints” (shows its outline through clothing) it is automatically illegal. In many states, minor printing is not considered illegal concealed carry, but again, this varies by jurisdiction.
Because the laws governing what is considered concealed carry differ across the United States, receiving professional training remains essential. At Concealed Coalition, our certified instructors stay up to date on current laws and best practices to provide you with the highest quality education available.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Protected
When answering the question, what is considered concealed carry, the best advice is this: if a reasonable person cannot immediately see that you are armed, your firearm is likely considered concealed under the law. However, assumptions are risky—only formal training ensures you are fully compliant.
Concealed Coalition is proud to have earned nearly a 5-star rating on Sitejabber with over 10,000 reviews. We have helped over one million Americans responsibly enter the concealed carry community. Whether your state requires online education or in-person classroom and range time, our training solutions are built to fit your needs.
If you carry a firearm (or plan to), make sure you have the training to back it up. Even in states where permits are no longer required, responsible education is what separates lawful carriers from dangerous mistakes.
Ready to take the next step? Find a Concealed Coalition class near you or enroll in an approved online program today.
