ATTENTION GUN OWNERS & FUTURE GUN OWNERS: GET CONCEALED CARRY CERTIFIED BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE

Alaska Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

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

Alaska Reciprocity Map

Last Updated on February 29, 2024

Alaska Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

734K

STATE POPULATION

12K

LICENSES ISSUED

1.6%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

50

STATES HONORED

21

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

5

YEARS LICENSE VALID

38

RECIPROCATING STATES

YES

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

1

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

Your Responsibility as a Gun Owner in Alaska

As a gun owner, it is your responsibility to know what your rights are and the gun laws for each state that you plan to carry a concealed firearm in. These laws are subject to change.

Alaska is home to 734,000 people. Though Alaska is a permitless state, about 1.6% of the population has a permit for concealed carry (CC). The minimum age to CC in Alaska is 21, and the license is valid for five years.

Though Alaska allows concealed carry without a permit, having a concealed carry permit in Alaska offers many benefits. In order to get a concealed carry permit in this state, you will need to complete a certified firearms training course, like the ones offered at Concealed Coalition.

We have trained over a million people and can help you get the certification you need to acquire your concealed carry permit in this state. Contact us to find online or local training for your state today.

Summary of Alaska Gun Laws

Your Alaska Gun Rights

Alaska is a permitless, shall-issue state with no permit required to purchase a firearm and no background check required when buying a handgun from a private individual. There is also no firearms registration.

However, each state has its own gun laws, which may differ from Alaska and require additional permits for concealed carry. That is why it is important to understand reciprocity laws for each state you will be carrying in.

Open Carry in Alaska

In Alaska, anyone who is legally allowed to possess a firearm above the age of 16 is allowed to open carry in most locations. However, according to federal law, the minimum age to possess a firearm is 18.

Alaska gun laws do prohibit open carry in K-12 schools and in places where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises, such as bars.

Concealed Carry in Alaska

Anyone 21 and older who is legally allowed to possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a permit. However, Alaskan residents may need to get a concealed carry permit if they do not want a background check when purchasing more firearms or if they want to carry a firearm in states that Alaska has reciprocity with.

These permits require a firearms training course and are issued by the Alaska State Police. Residents of other states that have reciprocity with Alaska may carry a concealed firearm as long as they are legally allowed to possess them.

Self Defense Laws in Alaska

In the State of Alaska, you are permitted to use both force and deadly force to protect yourself under certain circumstances. Continue reading to learn more.

Use of Force

The state of Alaska recognizes your right to defend yourself in the event that an intruder enters your home. This is what is known as a “castle doctrine.” You also have the right to defend yourself at home, while protecting a child or member of your household, and while at work.

However, there are some exceptions. You may not claim self-defense if you were engaged in mutual combat not authorized by the law, provoked the other party’s conduct, were the aggressor, or applied force while committing a felony or as an act of revenge.

Use of Deadly Force

There are some instances in which you are allowed to use deadly force if necessary. This may be the case if you are able to claim self-defense by law, and you reasonably believe the use of deadly force is necessary to prevent death, kidnapping, robbery, sexual assault, sexual abuse of a minor, or serious physical injury.

Legal Protection After Use of Force

Alaskan state laws allow you to defend yourself with the use of force, even deadly force if necessary under the circumstances outlined above. However, your ultimate legal position will depend on the unique circumstances of the incident and how local authorities view the act.

At Concealed Coalition, our training courses are designed to help gauge threat levels in real-life situations. This can help you act accordingly if you are ever in a position where you feel force may be necessary to protect yourself and others.

Alaska Gun Laws by Statute

It’s essential for Alaska firearm owners to remember that the following Alaska gun laws are subject to change without notice. The attorney general’s website has all the latest information and should be visited regularly by licensees.

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

Contact us today at (202) 753-4601 or email to discuss your concealed carry permit educational needs.

Quick Links

ALASKA CONCEALED CARRY LAWS - THE BASICS

QUESTION

ANSWER

Which States Have Alaska Reciprocity?

Alaska has reciprocity with 38 states, though there are some restrictions between certain states. These states include: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

Which States’ Permits Does Alaska Honor?

The state of Alaska honors permits from all 50 states and Puerto Rico.

States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Alaska

Out of the 38 states that have reciprocity with Alaska, five of them have restricted reciprocity. These states include: Arizona, Maine, West Virginia, Virginia, & South Dakota.

Does Alaska recognize constitutional carry?

Is Alaska constitutional carry? Yes, Alaska allows constitutional carry.

Is open carry permitted in Alaska?

Is Alaska an open carry state? Yes, open carry is permitted to anyone legally allowed to own a gun in Alaska.

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

Alaska is a shall-issue state, meaning that the issuing authority is required to approve your permit if you meet the requirements laid out in the law.

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

You must be 21 to obtain an Alaska concealed carry permit.

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

No, this permit does not apply to other weapons.

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

Stun guns and tasers are both legal in Alaska. However, they are not permitted in K-12 schools or on school buses without the permission of the chief administrative officer of the school or their representative.

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

Yes, pepper spray is legal in the state of Alaska.

Does Alaska have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No, there are no restrictions for magazine capacity.

Does Alaska have ammunition restrictions?

No, Alaska has no ammunition restrictions.

CONCEALED CARRY ALASKA LOCATIONS

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

Yes, you can carry a concealed loaded or unloaded handgun in your vehicle in Alaska.

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

Yes, you are permitted to carry at rest stops in Alaska.

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

Yes, you are allowed to carry a concealed firearm at both state and national parks in Alaska.

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

You are not permitted to carry a concealed handgun in bars that sell alcohol for on-site consumption. Still, you may carry them in restaurants as long as you are not consuming alcohol unless the establishment posts signs that prohibit it.

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

Each hotel or inn may have its own rules regarding concealed carry while on their property, but state law does not prohibit it.

Does Alaska have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?

Because Alaska is a constitutional carry state, your employer is not allowed to prohibit you from storing your firearm in your locked vehicle, as long as you are legally allowed to own a firearm. This applies to states and municipalities as well, as long as your car is legally parked on state, municipal, or privately held properly.

However, they may prohibit guns from areas that are “restricted access” and not accessible to the general public. Additionally, they may limit your right to store firearms in a vehicle that is parked within 300 feet of a restricted area. They may also prohibit guns from company vehicles. This includes vehicles that are owned or leased by the company or an agent of the company.

IMPORTANT ALASKA GUN LAWS

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

Yes, you must inform a police officer if you have a concealed firearm on you or in your vehicle.

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

Yes. You are not allowed to possess a gun anywhere that state or federal law prohibits it, and it is enforced. If you are found guilty of breaking this law, it is a Class B misdemeanor, and it may carry additional penalties under state and federal law.

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

Yes. Under state law, no municipality may enact an ordinance that restricts the rights of gun owners in regards to:

Ownership
Possession
Licensing
Registration
Sale
Transfer
Transportation
Use
Carrying
Taxation

Only the state of Alaska may regulate these activities. However, municipalities do have discretion when it comes to government buildings and restricted areas, as well as the discharge of firearms.

Does Alaska have a red flag law?

No, there are no red flag laws in Alaska.

Does Alaska state law define brandishing?

Brandishing is the act of revealing your firearm in an angry or threatening manner. Alaska currently does not have a law that prohibits brandishing. However, it does have laws against assault with a gun, which is defined as making a person fear that you may carry out a threat to harm them with a firearm. You may also be charged with disorderly conduct if you challenge someone to a duel with a firearm.

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

Yes. You are not allowed to consume alcohol or drugs while carrying a firearm.

Does Alaska issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

No, it does not, but non-residents may carry a concealed firearm if they are from a state that has reciprocity with Alaska, they are over the age of 21, and are legally allowed to possess a firearm.

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

No, the concealed carry registry is not public information, but it is available to police and law enforcement agents.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN ALASKA

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Alaska?

No, there is no permit required to purchase a handgun in Alaska.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Alaska?

No, there are no background checks required for private gun sales in Alaska. However, other state and federal regulations such as age restrictions still apply. It is also a good idea to retain a record of the sale to prove ownership if necessary.

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

Yes, for permits that are marked exempt from National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) -exempt only. .

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

No, there is no waiting period.

Do handguns need to be registered in Alaska?

No, firearms do not need to be registered in Alaska.

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

The minimum to possess and transport a handgun is 16.

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

Yes, as permitless carry is legal in Alaska. However, it is illegal to carry in another person’s home without their consent.

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Alaska

Quick Links

ALASKA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Alaska

An applicant must meet the following requirements:

Must be 21 or older
Must be legally permitted to possess a firearm under state and federal laws
Must be a resident of Alaska for the previous 90 days or more
Must not have been convicted of two or more Class A misdemeanors in the past six years
Must not be in a court-ordered drug or alcohol treatment program within the past three years
Must complete a handgun training course, like the one offered by Concealed Coalition

Fees:

The cost to apply for a concealed carry permit in Alaska is $87. Permit renewals made during the 90 days before the permit expires are $25.

Valid For:

It is valid until the permit holder’s birthday in the fifth year of them possessing the permit.

Processing Time:

Processing time for a concealed carry permit is 30 days in Alaska.

Applications:

If you are interested in obtaining an application for a concealed carry permit in Alaska or renewal, you can find them here.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Alaska does not issue concealed carry permits to non-residents but allows anyone over the age of 21 to carry a concealed firearm if they are a resident of a state with which Alaska has reciprocity.

Name & Address Changes:

You must report a name change, such as a change following marriage or divorce, to the Department of Public Safety within 30 days of the change and submit the document that recorded the change. You will be issued a new permit, and a $25 fee applies.

To change your address on your concealed carry permit, you can submit a name change form, or you can email, send a letter, or personally request a change in person. There is no fee to change this information.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

If your license is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a replacement permit and submit an application, a new photo, and a $25 fee. It must be submitted in person to the Department of Public Safety or a local police department so your identity can be verified.

Residency Changes:

If you are moving to Alaska from another state, you may apply for a permit 90 days after you become a resident. If you are moving out of Alaska to another state, your concealed carry permit will expire as soon as you become a resident of that state.

CONCEALED CARRY ALASKA LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

Step One:

Complete a firearms safety course with Concealed Coalition within 12 months of applying for your concealed carry permit.

Step Two:

Schedule an appointment with an approved vendor to have your fingerprints taken.

Step Three:

Download and complete the application form (linked above).

Step Four:

Take the completed application to the State Troopers’ office with the following:

Training course certificate;
Valid Alaska driver’s license or identification card;
A passport-style photograph taken within 30 days; and
Two complete sets of fingerprints on FBI-approved fingerprint cards.

Pay the fee.

Step Five:

You will be notified whether your application has been approved or denied 30 days after submission.

ALASKA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step One:

A permit holder may renew their concealed carry license 90 days before expiration. This is the responsibility of the permit holder. If a person fails to renew their license in the approved window, they may apply for a new permit, following the process above.

Renewal forms may be downloaded and completed online or delivered in person.

Step Two:

Send or take the completed renewal form to the State Troopers’ office with a passport-style photograph taken within 30 days.

Step Three:

You will be notified if your application has been approved.

Get Certified for a Alaska Concealed Carry Permit Today

If you live in the state of Alaska and wish to get a concealed carry permit, you will need the right training course. At Concealed Coalition, our certified instructors can help you get the training you need to be approved. Contact Concealed Coalition today to get started

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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