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Alabama Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Everything you need to know about owning a firearm in the state of Alabama

Alabama Reciprocity Map

Last Updated: 2023

Alabama Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

4.9M

STATE POPULATION

1.26M

LICENSES ISSUED

25.7%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

48

STATES HONORED

18

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

1-5

YEARS LICENSE VALID

32

RECIPROCATING STATES

YES

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

TBA

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

It’s essential to be aware of your state’s gun laws before purchasing a firearm or carrying it away from your property. You should also know about these regulations before attempting to carry a weapon over state lines. This information is vital for Alabama residents because even though the state doesn’t require a permit, states that you’re traveling to might.

Alabama has a population of about 4.9 million people, and 1.26 million, or 25.7%, have an Alabama Pistol Permit, which allows holders to carry a concealed firearm. Residents must be 18 to apply for one of these licenses, and the applicant can choose to keep the permit valid for one to five years.

You aren’t required to take a concealed carry education class before applying for your Alabama Pistol Permit, but it’s recommended because of the safety training it provides. Concealed Coalition has delivered firearm education for more than one million Americans, and we can assist Alabama residents in how to safely use their firearms. Contact us for more information on the training we offer in the state.

Summary of Alabama Gun Laws

Your Alabama Gun Rights

Federal gun laws apply in Alabama, so every purchase you make through a federally licensed dealer requires a background check. You don’t need a license to purchase a gun, but you’ll need an Alabama Pistol Permit to carry a concealed weapon.

Your Alabama Pistol Permit allows you to carry a concealed firearm in 32 other states, and Alabama honors permits from 48 states around the country. Here’s a look at some other Alabama gun laws:

Open Carry in Alabama

Open carry in Alabama is legal for any person over 18 who isn’t prohibited from possessing a firearm. Schools, courthouses, and other locations are off-limits, though.

Concealed Carry in Alabama

Alabama is a shall-issue state, so law enforcement officials must provide you with an Alabama Pistol Permit if you meet the legal standards. This permit is necessary to carry a concealed weapon in the state. No education is required to receive this license.

Self Defense Laws in Alabama

Alabama’s gun laws state that you have no duty to retreat and can stand your ground as long as you aren’t breaking the law. It’s also a Castle Doctrine state, giving you the power to protect your home against intruders.

Use of Force

The use of force is legal when defending yourself, your property, or another person in Alabama. You are permitted to use the amount of force you feel is necessary for this purpose.

Use of Deadly Force

You can use deadly force if you feel another person is about to use unlawful deadly force, when preventing a felony, or when protecting a child. Any person who uses deadly force in a justified manner is immune from criminal prosecution.

Protecting Yourself With Certified Training

The training you receive from a certified instructor can help you learn when using force is acceptable and how much you should use in a particular situation. Having this knowledge ensures you meet the legal requirements for immunity. Classes are available online and locally in Alabama.

Alabama Gun Laws by Statute

Concealed Coalition is dedicated to dispelling the myths surrounding gun ownership and promoting a culture of understanding, responsibility, and confidence. Our certified instructors are qualified across multiple states, and our online or local training classes provide convenient learning environments run by instructors who care.

Contact us today at (334) 203-4452 or email to discuss your Alabama concealed carry permit educational needs..

Quick Links

CONCEALED CARRY BASICS IN ALABAMA

QUESTION

ANSWER

Does Alabama recognize constitutional carry?

Yes

Is open carry permitted in Alabama?

Yes, without a permit.

If Alabama requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?

Alabama is a shall-issue state. Concealed weapons permits are issued at the county level by the local sheriff’s office.

What is the minimum age in Alabama to get a concealed carry license?

18 years old.

Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Alabama with a concealed carry license (or under permit-less carry if applicable)?

No.

Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Alabama?

Yes, but a permit is necessary in Mobile, Alabama.

Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Alabama?

Yes.

Does Alabama have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No.

Does Alabama have ammunition restrictions?

Yes, on brass, steel Teflon-coated, and any other armor-piercing ammunition.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN ALABAMA

QUESTION

ANSWER

Where can't I carry a concealed firearm in Alabama?

Alabama has restrictions on where you can carry a gun, even if you have an Alabama concealed carry permit. Concealed firearms are prohibited in the following places:

Correctional facilities
Police stations
Psychiatric facilities
Courthouses
Schools
City council buildings
Athletic facilities
Security-restricted buildings
Public demonstrations
University of Alabama
Alabama State House

Where can I carry a concealed firearm in Alabama?

Most locations in the state other than those where it is prohibited.

Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Alabama?

Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit.

Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Alabama?

Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit.

Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forest and Wildlife Management Areas in Alabama?

Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit.

Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Alabama?

Yes, with an Alabama Pistol Permit.

Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Alabama?

Yes, but each hotel has the right to make its own regulations.

Is there an Alabama gun law related to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?

An employer cannot prohibit the transportation or storage of your weapon while in a privately owned vehicle if the employee has an Alabama concealed carry permit.

IMPORTANT ALABAMA GUNS LAWS

QUESTION

ANSWER

Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Alabama?

No, there is no duty to inform, but it’s considered a courtesy.

Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Alabama? If, yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If, no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense.

No.

Does Alabama have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?

Yes, although cities can apply taxes to firearm purchases and regulate the discharge of these weapons.

Does Alabama have a red flag law?

No.

Does Alabama state law define brandishing?

No.

Does Alabama have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or chemical substances?

No law is present.

Does Alabama issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

No, but it honors permits from 48 states.

Does Alabama allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?

No, but law enforcement has access.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN ALABAMA

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Alabama?

No.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Alabama?

No.

Does my current Alabama concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase firearm?

No.

Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Alabama?

No.

Do handguns need to be registered in Alabama?

No.

What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Alabama?

18, but there are situations where a minor can possess a firearm.

Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home in Alabama without a license?

Yes. A permit is not required for a person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm.

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Alabama

Quick Links

ALABAMA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Alabama

An applicant must:

Be at least 18 years of age
Reside in the county where he or she files the application or be active-duty military stationed in Alabama or a spouse
Be a suitable person to be licensed
- Not be a registered sex offender
- Not have been found guilty but mentally ill in a criminal case
- Not have asserted a defense in a criminal case of not guilty by reason of insanity or mental disease or defect
- Not have required involuntary inpatient treatment in a psychiatric hospital or similar treatment facility for any reason, including drug use
- Not have been the subject of a prosecution or of a commitment or incompetency proceeding that could lead to a prohibition on the receipt or possession of a firearm under the laws of Alabama
- Not have caused justifiable concern for public safety
Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien

Fees:

New Permits and Renewals
Set by county sheriff, but generally $20 per year, so $100 for a 5-year permit.

Effective January 1, 2022
1-year or 5-year permit fees will be determined by local law. If there is no law on the subject, $25 per year or $300 for lifetime, or $150 for lifetime if the applicant is over 60 years of age.

Active Duty Military Veterans/Retirees
Any non-disability retirees from active duty military who meet the conditions for issuance of a pistol permit shall be eligible to obtain the pistol permit without paying a fee for the permit. Upon approval of the pistol permit application, the pistol permit shall be issued by the sheriff of the county in which the veteran resides upon presentation by the retired military veteran of the United States government issued Veteran Identification Card or a DD-214 Proof of Military Service form and sufficient proof that the person is a military retiree. The retired military veteran shall apply for renewal as required by Alabama gun law, but shall be eligible to obtain renewed pistol permits without paying a fee as long as he or she meets the conditions for renewal of the permit.

Valid For:

Applicant chooses between 1 to 5 years.

Processing Time:

30 days.

Applications:

Check online for your county sheriff’s office. Some have applications available for download.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Alabama doesn’t issue permits to non-residents, except the county sheriff may issue a permit to active-duty military stationed in Alabama and their spouses.

Name & Address Changes:

You will need to contact the local county sheriff to change the information on your permit.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

You will need to contact your county sheriff to obtain a new permit.

Residency Changes:

If a person with an Alabama pistol permit establishes residency in another state, the pistol permit expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

ALABAMA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

Step One:

Obtain the application form from your local county sheriff. Some counties have a permit application that can be downloaded from their website. Elmore County now has an online permitting system.

Step Two:

Complete the form.

Step Three:

Submit your application to the sheriff’s office in your county.

Step Four:

You will be notified if your application has been approved.

ALABAMA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Overview

You’ll have to renew your Alabama Pistol Permit every time it expires. Going through the renewal process is entirely the responsibility of the applicant. You must also ensure you’re legally permitted to renew your permit if something has changed regarding your criminal behavior.

You can choose for it to remain active for one or five years, and the price is determined by the local sheriff’s office. The cost of these permits is generally $20 per year or $100 for a five-year permit. Some locations offer lifetime permits for $300 as well. Here’s how the renewal process works:

Step One:

Renewing your permit involves mailing or taking your old license to the sheriff’s office and filling out a renewal application. You can also fill out this renewal form online in some locations, depending on where in Alabama you live.

Step Two:

You’ll have to pay your renewal fee when submitting your application.

Step Three:

You should receive notification of approval within 30 days of applying.

Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers and Retired LEOs

HR 218, or the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), allows off-duty or retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed weapons in any part of the country. Alabama doesn’t have an agency overseeing LEOSA permits, so it’s up to each agency to offer the necessary identification. Here’s how the process works in the state.

Active law enforcement officers are eligible to carry a concealed weapon with their police identification.
Retired law enforcement officers must ask their home agency for identification allowing them to continue carrying a concealed weapon.
Any officer who receives these credentials can carry their weapon without an Alabama Pistol Permit.

Active and retired officers in Alabama must have the necessary photo identification proving they’re eligible. The other option is applying for an Alabama Pistol Permit.

Firearms Training & Competency

Concealed Coalition provides the training you’ll need to safely carry your firearm in Alabama and elsewhere in the country. Contact us today for more information on the courses we offer Alabama residents.

It’s worth noting that no training is necessary to receive your Alabama Pistol Permit. Many lawful gun owners take at least one firearm educational course, however, because it provides the fundamentals on self-defense, deadly force, and gun use. Available options include:

NRA Training

Training classes through the National Rifle Association are offered in jurisdictions all over the country. The NRA has a training locator to assist with your search.

Alabama Hunter Education

Alabama residents born after August 1, 1977, must take a firearms course before purchasing a hunting license. These courses are available in person and online and provide the knowledge needed to become a responsible hunter.

Firearms Safety Courses From Other Providers

Some public and private institutions in Alabama offer education programs for firearm owners.

A Firearms Training Course With a State-Certified Instructor

Training through a state-approved instructor isn’t necessary in Alabama, but it remains a good idea because of the quality of the education you’ll receive. Concealed Coalition’s instructors will provide you with a certificate of competency after completing your course.

DD Form 214 or Military Orders for Active or Former Military Members

Alabama doesn’t offer concealed carry permits to out-of-state residents, but active-duty military members are an exception, and they can apply directly through the local sheriff’s office when stationed in the state. Both active and former military members can receive an Alabama Pistol Permit without paying the fee.

Get Certified for an Alabama Concealed Carry Permit Today

Our network of firearms professionals are holding training classes and in-person certification courses throughout Alabama. Use our certification locator to enroll in an upcoming firearms training course near you today, or visit our concealed carry permit Alabama resource for online certification.

Do You Have Licenses in the Multiple States? Find Out More Here

Did we miss something?

If you have any questions that you don’t see answered here — let us know! Just email [email protected] and we will be sure to get your question resolved promptly. Your feedback matters to us, and we greatly appreciate you helping us make this page the best possible resource for responsible gun owners! The information contained on this website is provided by Concealed Coalition as a service to its members and the public. The information on this page does not constitute legal advice. Our goal is to provide thorough, up-to-date information regarding concealed carry laws, reciprocity, and requirements. We make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. At the time of publishing the information contained in this page was correct and up-to-date. However, laws are constantly changing, and as a result, nothing contained on this website should be considered legal advice. Please consult a lawyer should you require legal advice regarding concealed carry and gun laws in your state. Did you know our membership includes a pre-paid legal protection plan? Sign up today and gain access to 24/7 coverage from a team of legal experts.

*Legal protection plans available in select states.

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