Connecticut Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Prepare for Your Concealed Carry Permit and Learn the Gun Laws and Regulations of Connecticut.

Connecticut Reciprocity Map

Last Updated on March 5, 2024

Connecticut Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

3.6M

STATE POPULATION

284K

LICENSES ISSUED

7.9%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

STATES HONORED

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

YEARS LICENSE VALID

RECIPROCATING STATES

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

What You Need to Know as a Gun Owner in Connecticut

If you plan to carry a firearm in Connecticut, it is essential to stay informed of all the latest gun laws in the state and your rights as a gun owner.

Connecticut is home to $3.6 million residents, and nearly 8% of the population has a concealed carry license. The minimum age to carry a concealed firearm is twenty-one, and licenses are valid for five years.

In order to be eligible for Connecticut concealed carry permit, you must complete a certified firearms safety course. At Concealed Coalition, we have trained more than one million US residents and can help you acquire the training you need. Contact us to find online or local training for your state today.

Summary of Connecticut Gun Laws

Your Connecticut Gun Rights

Connecticut is a may-issue state with a “suitability clause.” This means that it is up to the discretion of the issuing authority whether or not to approve your gun permit application or revoke an existing permit.

Obtaining a gun permit is a two-step process. First, you must apply for a temporary permit from the local authorities. Once you have your temporary permit, you must apply for a permit at the state level through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP).

To purchase a firearm from a private party, you must pass a background check, and these transactions must be overseen by a dealer with a federal license. In addition, you must also have a Certificate of Eligibility for Pistol and Revolvers or Long Guns or Ammunition or Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP) to buy a firearm. Non-residents with a valid CCW license from their home state can apply for a CTPP. To acquire a CTPP, you must take a state-approved firearms training course with live-fire exercises.

Concealed carry and open carry are both legal in Connecticut as long as you have a CTPP and are over the age of twenty-one. However, you are not allowed to carry in state parks and schools.

Open Carry in Connecticut

Open carry is legal in the state of Connecticut with a CTPP as long as the individual is over the age of twenty-one. You must keep your permit on you when you are carrying your firearm.

Concealed Carry in Connecticut

Concealed carry is also legal in Connecticut with a CTPP. Both residents and non-residents may apply for a CTPP, as Connecticut does not recognize permits from other states.

Self Defense Laws in Connecticut

Connecticut is a “castle doctrine” state, meaning that you do have the right to defend yourself in your home. Additionally, you do not have the duty to retreat in your home, but you do have the duty to retreat outside your home.

Use of Force

The use of reasonable force is permitted in Connecticut if the person using the force is doing so to protect themselves or another person in the event that they have reason to believe that the use of force is imminent from another party. Reasonable force may also be used to prevent theft or larceny of personal property.

Use of Deadly Force

Deadly force is only permitted in the event that a person has reason to believe that a third party is about to use deadly force or force that results in severe bodily harm against them or another person. The use of deadly force is not permitted in defense of property.

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

As a gun owner, it is essential to know your rights when using force in the state of Connecticut. However, the ultimate decision on whether your actions were justified rests with the legal system.

When you choose a certified firearms safety course like the ones offered at Concealed Coalition, we teach you how to gauge threats and determine when the use of force is necessary. Contact us today to learn more.

Connecticut Gun Laws by Statute

It’s essential for Connecticut firearm owners to remember that the following Connecticut 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.

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CONCEALED CARRY IN CONNECTICUT - THE BASICS

QUESTION

ANSWER

In What States Can I Carry My Gun With a CT Permit?

Twenty-eight states have reciprocity with Connecticut, meaning they recognize permits issued by the state of Connecticut or allow Connecticut residents to carry without a permit. These states include: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

Which States’ Permits Does Connecticut Honor?

Connecticut does not honor permits from any other states.

States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Connecticut

Of the twenty-eight states that have reciprocity with Connecticut, fourteen of them have restricted CT reciprocity, including certain age restrictions. The following twelve states restrict permitless carry to individuals above the age of twenty-one: Arizona, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Oklahoma , Tennessee , Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wyoming.

Missouri allows permitless carry for individuals above the age of nineteen and eighteen for military members. In Michigan, Connecticut residents must have a valid concealed carry license from their home state.

Does Connecticut recognize constitutional carry?

No, it is not a constitutional carry state.

Is open carry permitted in Connecticut?

Yes, with a CTPP.

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

Connecticut is a may-issue state with a suitability clause.

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

You must be at least twenty-one.

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

No, you are not allowed to carry other concealed weapons.

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

Both are legal in Connecticut for home or business use only. You may not carry them or transport them in a vehicle.

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

Yes. Pepper spray and chemical spray are legal in Connecticut.

Does Connecticut have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

Yes. You may have no more than ten rounds. Any magazine that holds more than ten rounds is considered a “large-capacity magazine,” including a firearm magazine, belt, drum, feed strip, or similar device that has the capacity of, can be readily restored or converted to accept more than ten rounds of ammunition.

Anyone in possession of a large-capacity magazine may be charged with a Class D felony.

However, high-capacity magazines owned before January 1, 2014, may be grandfathered in as long as you declared possession of that magazine to the DESPP before that date. There are certain exemptions to the law.

Any feeding device that has been permanently altered so that it can no longer accommodate more than ten rounds, a magazine that is permanently non-operational or a .22 caliber tube ammunition feeding device is not considered a “large-capacity magazine.”

Does Connecticut have ammunition restrictions?

Yes. In order to purchase ammunition, you must have a firearm carry permit, long-gun/handgun eligibility certificate, sales permit, or an ammunition certificate. You can apply for an ammunition certificate with the Connecticut Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection. This certificate must be renewed every five years, and you must be able to pass a background check.

Incendiary .50-caliber and armor-piercing ammunition are illegal in Connecticut.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN CONNECTICUT

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

Yes, with a CTPP. If you do not have a concealed carry permit, your gun must be unloaded and locked in a separate container from your ammunition. If your vehicle is unattended, your weapon must also be in a locked safe, glove box, trunk, or locked utility box that is secured to the bed of a truck.

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

Yes. It is legal to carry a concealed firearm at rest stops.

Do CT concealed carry laws allow you to carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Connecticut?

No, with certain exceptions. Firearms are only permitted in certain locations in state parks when an individual has a current license for hunting, during the appropriate season, with the proper ammunition and firearm for the animal they are hunting. You are also allowed to carry in the Weir Farm National Historical Park with a CTPP and on portions of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

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

If you are wondering something along the lines of “Can you carry a gun in a bar in CT?”, the answer is yes. It is legal to open or concealed carry firearms in bars and restaurants unless the establishment has posted a sign forbidding it.

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

Rules regarding handgun possession are left up to the discretion of the hotel. You should contact the hotel or other hospitality establishment to see what their current policy is.

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

There is no state law against having your gun stored in your vehicle while at work, but your employer has the right to make their own rules that may prohibit this.

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN CONNECTICUT

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

No, you do not have a duty to inform a police officer if you are carrying a concealed firearm.

Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Connecticut? 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, there are certain areas where carrying a gun is prohibited by law. In addition, the person who owns or controls any premises may make their own rules prohibiting firearms on their property. If you violate this law, you may be charged and subsequently convicted of a Class E felony, and you must forfeit your firearm.

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

No. Local authorities and municipalities are allowed to make their own laws and ordinances regulating both ammunition and firearms.

Does Connecticut have a red flag law?

Yes. Any two police officers or the state’s attorney may file a complaint against an individual requesting a seizure of their ammunition or firearms. Social workers, healthcare workers, clergy, family members, and other members of the community are also allowed to file a request to seize a person’s firearms if they have threatened to commit acts of violence against themselves or another person.

Do Connecticut gun laws define brandishing?

No, Connecticut does not have a law that defines brandishing. However, it does have laws regarding disorderly conduct in which an individual participates in behavior intending to alarm, annoy or inconvenience another person or behave in a reckless manner that puts others at risk. This includes threatening or violent behavior and fighting.

While brandishing is not officially defined in Connecticut’s HB06491(2021), the law does day you can’t intentionally show off your firearm in public.

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

Yes. It is illegal to consume drugs or alcohol while carrying a firearm.

Does Connecticut issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Yes, Connecticut allows non-residents with a valid permit from their own state to apply for a permit.

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

No, but it is available to police officers and law enforcement agents.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN CONNECTICUT

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Connecticut?

Yes, a buyer must have either a Certificate of Eligibility for Pistols and Revolvers or a CTPP. They must also complete an approved safety course like the ones offered by Concealed Coalition, pass a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check and have a mental health records check.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Connecticut?

Yes, and such transfers must be performed through a federally licensed dealer.

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

No, you will not be exempt.

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

No, there is no waiting period.

Do handguns need to be registered in Connecticut?

Yes, the DESPP maintains a registry of all firearms sold in the state, including private sales. This does not apply to firearms purchased outside the state.

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

You must be twenty-one, with the exception of certain recreational activities supervised by an adult.

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

Yes, anyone who is legally allowed to possess a firearm may do so in their own dwelling but are required to have one for possession outside the dwelling, even on one’s own property.

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Connecticut

Quick Links

CONNECTICUT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Connecticut

An Applicant Must:

Meet all federal requirements for gun ownership
Be at least twenty-one years old.
Be a legal resident of the United States
Have a residence or business in the jurisdiction or area in which they are applying
Be willing to only use your handgun or firearm for purposes approved by law
Pass a background check
Have completed an approved firearm safety course that includes live fire
Be a “suitable person” as determined by the issuing authority
Not have been confined in a hospital for a psychiatric disability
Not have been voluntarily admitted to a hospital for a psychiatric disability on or after October 1, 2013, within the preceding twelve months by order of a probate court
Not have been convicted for a serious offense as a juvenile
Not have been found not guilty of a crime by reason of mental disease or defect in the past twenty years
Not have been convicted of a felony
Not have a restraining or protective order issued against them by a court following the threatened, attempted, or use of actual force against the person who was granted a restraining order.
Not be subject to a firearms seizure order issued after a hearing that found the applicant posed a risk of injury to others or themselves.
Not have been convicted of:
- Third-degree assault
- Criminal possession of a narcotic substance
- Criminally negligent homicide
- First-degree reckless endangerment
- First-degree riot
- Second-degree stalking
- Second-degree unlawful restraint

Fees:

Total fees: $105 plus additional fees for fingerprinting and background check

$35 for a temporary state permit to carry pistols or revolvers (state residents and non-residents)
$70 for a permanent permit

Renewals are $70

Valid For:

A permanent license is valid for five years.

Processing Time:

Processing time is up to 60 days.

Applications:

You can find the application for a temporary permit here.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Individuals who hold a valid license or permit in another state or the United States jurisdiction may apply for a concealed carry license. You may complete the process by mailing your paperwork and documentation to the DESPP at:

Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Division of State Police Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
1111 Country Club Road
Middletown, CT 06457

Name & Address Changes:

Permanent address changes must be reported to the issuing authority within two business days of your move. You may call or email the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU) with the address change or mail a letter to:

Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Division of State Police, Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
1111 Country Club Road,
Middletown, CT, 06457

In your email or letter, you should include your:

Permit number,
Former address
New/current address

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

If you have lost your permit or believe it was stolen, you must file a police report near the location where you believe it was lost. You also must contact the authority that issued you the permit and report that you lost your permit. Once the loss is reported, you may go to either the state police headquarters or find a troop location where they are able to process permits. There is a $5.00 fee for your duplicate permit.

Residency Changes:

If you are moving into Connecticut, you may apply for a permit right away, as Connecticut grants permits to non-residents who have a valid permit from another state or jurisdiction in the United States.

If you are moving out of Connecticut, your permit is still valid as long as you notify the state of a change in address. It may remain valid until it expires or as long as you continue to renew it.

CONNECTICUT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

Overview

Connecticut has a two-step permitting process: a 60-day temporary permit issued by local authorities followed by a 5-year regular permit issued by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). Local law enforcement has discretion in determining whether or not to issue a permit to carry a handgun to an applicant based on a “suitability clause”. The suitability clause applies both to the issuance of new permits and revocation of existing permits.

A temporary state permit to carry pistols or revolvers entitles the holder to purchase a firearm and transport same to their residence or place of business. It does not entitle the holder to carry a pistol or revolver on their person. Issuance of a temporary permit is technically not a prerequisite to apply for a regular permit, but in practice an applicant must await a decision from local authorities on the temporary permit application before applying to DESPP for the regular permit.

Step One:

Complete a handgun safety course with Concealed Coalition.

Step Two:

Download the application (DPS-799-C).

Step Three:

Take the unsigned, completed application to the local chief of police, city or town hall or first selectman of your town. (Non-residents apply to the DESPP.) You will sign it in the presence of an official and need the following documents:

Two fingerprint cards for a criminal history check;
Two copies of your birth certificate or passport; and
Firearms training certificate.

Pay the fees.

Step Four:

Upon approval, the local authority will issue a Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers/Eligibility Certificate effective for 60 days.

Step Five:

Within the 60 day period, go to a DESPP, Division of State Police, pistol permit location and complete the State Application to Carry Pistols and Revolvers. You will need the following:

The Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers issued by the local authority;
Proof you are legally and lawfully in the United States (e.g., certified copy of birth certificate, U.S. passport, etc.); and
Valid state-issued photo ID card.

Pay the fee.

Your photograph will be taken.

Step Six:

Upon approval, your permit will be issued.

CONNECTICUT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step One:

Renewals are the responsibility of the permittee. Ninety days prior to the expiration of your permit, the issuing authority will mail out a renewal letter to your last known address. All pistol permits may be renewed by mail or in person at DESPP Headquarters 90 days prior to expiration or up to 90 days after expiration. No permit can be renewed after the 90 day grace period following the expiration date.

Step Two:

Confirm the accuracy of the information on DPS-129-C or, if one wasn’t received, download the form. If corrections are required, draw a single line through any incorrect information and write in the correct information.

Step Three:

For in-person renewals, present the corrected form to DESPP. Unless the Place of Birth section on the DPS-129-C states, “VERIFIED”, provide proof of being legally and lawfully in United States: U.S. Passport, Birth Certificate or Permanent Resident ID issued by I.C.E. or Naturalization Certificate. Your photograph and signature will be taken at DESPP.

For mail-in renewals, sign the corrected form in the presence of a notary prior to mailing. Using transparent tape, attach a color passport photo, taken within the previous 6 months, in the box provided. Proof of legal and lawful presence in the United States is required. Acceptable forms of proof include a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or documentation of permanent residence from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Include payment.

Step Four:

Upon approval, your permit will be issued.

Get Certified for a Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit Today

If you are interested in getting a concealed carry permit in Connecticut, it is essential to work with the right firearms training partner. Contact Concealed Coalition today to get certified and take the next step to obtain your permit.

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.

Connecticut Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Prepare for Your Concealed Carry Permit and Learn the Gun Laws and Regulations of Connecticut.

Connecticut Reciprocity Map

Connecticut Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

What You Need to Know as a Gun Owner in Connecticut

Summary of Connecticut Gun Laws

Your Connecticut Gun Rights

Open Carry in Connecticut

Concealed Carry in Connecticut

Self Defense Laws in Connecticut

Use of Force

Use of Deadly Force

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

Connecticut Gun Laws by Statute

CONCEALED CARRY IN CONNECTICUT - THE BASICS

In What States Can I Carry My Gun With a CT Permit?

Which States’ Permits Does Connecticut Honor?

States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Connecticut

Does Connecticut recognize constitutional carry?

Is open carry permitted in Connecticut?

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

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

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

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

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

Does Connecticut have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

Does Connecticut have ammunition restrictions?

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN CONNECTICUT

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

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

Do CT concealed carry laws allow you to carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Connecticut?

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

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

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

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN CONNECTICUT

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

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

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

Does Connecticut have a red flag law?

Do Connecticut gun laws define brandishing?

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

Does Connecticut issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

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

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN CONNECTICUT

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Connecticut?

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Connecticut?

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

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

Do handguns need to be registered in Connecticut?

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

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

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Connecticut

CONNECTICUT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Connecticut

CONNECTICUT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

CONNECTICUT CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Get Certified for a Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit Today

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

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