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Georgia Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

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

Georgia Reciprocity Map

Last Updated: 2023

Georgia Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

10.7M

STATE POPULATION

1.27M

LICENSES ISSUED

11.9%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

32

STATES HONORED

21

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

5

YEARS LICENSE VALID

33

RECIPROCATING STATES

YES

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

XX

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

Being fully aware of your gun rights and state laws is the first step toward responsible firearm ownership. The next is understanding how those gun laws translate across state lines.

Georgia is one of America’s most populated states. It is home to 10.7 million people, with 11.9% of the population being licensed to concealed carry (CC). The minimum age to do so is 21 (or 18 for members of the military), and the license is valid for five years.

Anyone interested in obtaining a GA concealed carry permit needs an education partner they can trust. Concealed Coalition has trained over a million U.S. citizens on how to carry their weapons safely and effectively. Contact us to find online or local training to get your CC license.

Summary of Georgia Gun Laws

Your Georgia Gun Rights

Each state has its own take on gun laws, and that can make it challenging to keep those for your home area straight. Georgia CCW reciprocity extends to 33 states (see the Georgia reciprocity map above), for example, while acknowledging some state-specific exceptions. It is recommended to refer regularly to the website of the Georgia Department of Public Safety for the latest firearms information.

The “shall-issue” status of Georgia means that any individual who meets the legal requirements can own a handgun. The right to Georgia conceal carry comes after applying for a Weapons Carry License (WCL), which you can obtain through probate court in the applicant’s county of residence and following successful completion of a criminal background check and an interview. Purchasing a firearm from a private individual does not require a background check, firearms registrations, or a license.

Here is a summary of existing laws:

Open Carry in Georgia

Georgia open carry is legal in the state for residents as long as they are eligible for a weapons carry license under Georgia law (whether or not they have a license). Non-residents must be licensed to carry a weapon in their state in order to open carry.

Constitutional Carry in Georgia

Georgia is a constitutional carry state. Regarding Georgia reciprocity, non-residents may carry a firearm in Georgia if they are licensed in their own state.

Self Defense Laws in Georgia

A Georgia CCW license is a powerful way to protect yourself and others. It is crucial to know where the line is when it comes to self-defense under the law to avoid excessive action.

Use of Force

Georgians have no duty to retreat, and use of force is permitted in defense of self or others to prevent an aggressor from committing a forcible felony defined in item (a)(2)(e). It is also permitted in defense of habitation (dwelling, vehicle, or place of business) or other premises belonging to immediate family. It is also allowed by someone with a legal duty to protect someone or something.

Use of Deadly Force

This is permitted in defense of habitation or applicable property only when under the belief that it will protect you or others from death, great bodily harm, or a forcible felony from an illegal entry.

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

Reasonable belief of harm is the only legal protection you have against threatening or using force or deadly force. Force will not be deemed justified if you provoked a confrontation. Georgia courts are willing to receive expert testimony on your behalf or evidence of past abuse as evidence if you have been victimized by someone on whom you used firearm force.

Firearms training is an excellent way to gain the skills necessary to responsibly gauge any potential threat levels. Concealed Coalition has trained over a million people to become responsible, certified gun owners. Classes are available locally and online.

Georgia 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 (404) 793-3424 to discuss your concealed carry permit educational needs..

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GEORGIA CONCEALED CARRY LAWS - THE BASICS

QUESTION

ANSWER

Does Georgia recognize constitutional carry?

YES.

Is open carry permitted in Georgia?

Open carry is legal in Georgia with a state issued Open Carry permit.

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

Georgia is a shall-issue state with concealed weapons licenses issued at the county level and filed with the probate court in the county of residence. You must be 21 years of age.

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

21 years old (or 18 for members of the military on active duty that have completed basic training or that have been honorably discharged).

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

Those with a WCL or reciprocal permit may carry blades of 12 inches or longer.

(Note: USCCA saves the mention of proximity to school grounds for carrying a taser or stun gun.)

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

In Georgia, it is legal for most people to buy and carry a taser gun without a license for use in self-defense provided they are not near a school, its grounds, or its transportation.

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

Georgia has no laws prohibiting people from carrying or using pepper spray.

Does Georgia have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No.

Does Georgia have ammunition restrictions?

No.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN GEORGIA

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

One area of confusion in many places is where the law allows and prohibits CC. Georgia law prohibits carrying a concealed weapon in many places, including:

Public gatherings
Sporting and athletic events
Churches or church functions
Political rallies or functions
Buildings that are publicly owned or operated
Courthouses
Secured airport areas
Schools, their functions, or associated transportation
Some areas of higher education
Government buildings
Buildings that house government entities
State mental health facilities
Nuclear power facilities
Within 150 feet of any polling place
Parking facilities at these prohibited locations

It is always prudent to ask ahead of time if you have any doubts before entering premises where you are unsure of state, federal, or private ownership rules. This proactive approach will help you and those around you avoid unpleasant situations.

Where can I carry a concealed firearm in Georgia?

Georgia law states that any public place not listed in the prohibited locations is cleared for CC. It is permitted under Article (g) with possession of a WCL in and on:

All parks
Historic sites
Recreational areas
Publicly owned buildings in the above locations and wildlife-management parks
Public transportation (except where prohibited by federal law)
In your vehicle or with permission from the vehicle’s owner

The law further states that any person who is not prohibited by law from possessing a handgun or a long gun may have or carry on their person a weapon or a long gun on their property or inside their home, motor vehicle, or place of business.

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

You can carry a handgun anywhere in the car, loaded or unloaded, openly or concealed. This applies to anyone traveling in Georgia, too. And remember that Georgia recognizes the weapons permits and licenses from 32 other states.

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

Yes, carrying a concealed firearm at rest areas in Georgia is allowed.

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

Yes, concealed firearms are allowed in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Georgia.

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

Yes.

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

Check with the hotel before entering the premises.

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

The law permits Georgia employees with a valid WCL to keep their firearms securely locked and out of sight in their vehicle. This is superseded if the employer is also the private owner of the property and does not allow guns.

These are some of the more common questions for CC in Georgia, but it’s always best to speak to your local authorities for the latest Georgia CCW laws. Receiving firearms training from pros familiar with your area’s rules is another great way to gain self-assurance and protect yourself while respecting the law.

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN GEORGIA

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

Georgia residents have no duty to disclose, but it is highly recommended to voluntarily let an officer know that you are CC licensed and if you have it with you.

Are "No Weapons Allowed? signs enforced in Georgia? 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, however, private property owners are free to set their own rules as to the acceptance or prohibition of firearms on their land or premises.

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

Yes, but with some exceptions.

Does Georgia have a red flag law?

No.

Does Georgia state law define brandishing?

Not in statute, but it is illegal to act in a threatening or violent manner or to intentionally point a firearm (loaded or unloaded) at someone without legal justification.

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

Yes. This is not allowed while under the influence of alcohol (BAC of 0.08 or greater) or any drug or combination of alcohol and drugs to the extent that it is unsafe for the person to discharge such firearm except in the defense of life, health, and property. In addition, any amount of marijuana or a controlled substance, as defined in GA Code § 16-13-21, present in the person’s blood or urine, or both, including the metabolites and derivatives of each or both without regard to whether or not any alcohol is present in the person’s breath or blood, is illegal.

Does Georgia issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Only military personnel with a permanent Georgia stationing.

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

Only law enforcement can access this data in Georgia.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN GEORGIA

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Georgia?

Georgia does not require a permit to purchase handguns.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Georgia?

Federal law requires federally licensed firearms dealers (but not private sellers) to initiate a background check on the purchaser prior to sale of a firearm. As a result, concealed weapons permit holders in Georgia are exempt from the federal background check requirement.

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

Yes.

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

There is no waiting period to buy guns in Georgia. However, there. isa 60-day waiting period for a license to carry a handgun.

Do handguns need to be registered in Georgia?

No, Georgia does not require anyone to register their firearms.

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

Georgia law states that is unlawful for any persons under the age of 18 to possess or transport a firearm.

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

No license is needed to carry a handgun in a person’s home, vehicle, place of business, while fishing or hunting, or unloaded in a case.

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Georgia

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GEORGIA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Georgia

An applicant must:

Meet at least one of these age-related requirements:
- Be 21 or older
- Be 18 or older if you are in the military, have completed basic training, and can provide proof that you are either on active duty or have been honorably discharged
Be a Georgia resident
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Have no felony convictions or pending criminal proceedings
Have no drug convictions (Examples: using or possessing drugs, making drugs, distributing a controlled substance)*
Have no other disqualifying convictions (Examples: carrying a concealed weapon without a license, domestic violence)*
Have not been in a mental hospital or drug or alcohol treatment center within the last 5 years*
Have not been committed to a mental hospital against your will

*In some situations, you can ask for approval from the county probate judge. Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Georgia.

Fees:

The initial license fee for a Georgia concealed carry permit is $75, but this varies by county. If applying for a renewal within the renewal period, the fee is approximately $35.

Valid For:

5 years.

Processing Time:

60 days.

Applications:

Download and complete this application form. Please note that some counties may not be listed as they require an in-person appointment.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Yes, but only to members of the military permanently stationed in Georgia. The process is the same as for residents.

Name & Address Changes:

If you have changed your address and would like an updated license with the new address from another county in Georgia, you must attach the following:

1. Affidavit for Name Change or Address Change to Another County
2. Supporting Documents

For Address Change
- A Copy of your Georgia driver’s license listing new county of residence; or
- documents linking your name to the new physical address. One must be directly associated with residence (i.e., a copy of lease, utility bill, etc.)
For Name Change
- A Copy of your Georgia driver’s license noting new name; or
- A court order or marriage licenses showing new name.
Fees — The fee for an updated license with address change and/or name change is $6.00. (Payable by check with check number 500+ made payable to Henry County Probate Court or money order.)
Current Henry County Weapons Carry License.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

Report it to the judge of the probate court of the county in which it was issued within 48 hours of the time the loss or damage becomes known. The judge of the probate court will issue a cancellation order and provide a replacement license. A replacement fee will be charged.

Residency Changes:

Georgia issues licenses to residents and members of the military only. You can apply for your license to the sheriff of your county once you have established your residence in that county. If you have a valid concealed carry license in any other state that recognizes a Georgia weapons carry license, you may carry a weapon in Georgia for 90 days after you become a Georgia state resident provided, however, you carry the weapon in compliance with Georgia laws and you submit a weapons carry license application as soon as practicable, and that you remain licensed in the other state until you obtain your Georgia weapons carry license.

If a person with a Georgia weapons carry license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

GEORGIA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

Step One:

Complete a firearms safety and training course with a state certified instructor.

Step Two:

Complete the application online or, if not listed online, make an appointment with the probate court in your county.

Step Three:

You will need the following documents in order to submit your application;

Completed application form;
Copy of birth certificate or U.S. passport; and
Drivers license or state ID card.

Pay the fee.

Step Four:

You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.

GEORGIA CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Overview

CC renewal applicants are recommended to return to probate court at least two months before their WCL expires. They can download forms online or obtain them at probate court. Completed forms must be filed along with the fee, a copy of your birth certificate or U.S. passport, and driver’s license or state ID. Some facts to keep in mind:

The example of Gwinnett County requires that renewal applicants be 21 years or older (18 with military service) and a valid U.S. resident or in possession of employment authorization.
A Georgia hunting license is necessary in some situations.
Applicants must show a valid WCL from any Georgia county, including an original letter from the dispensing probate court that is not more than 10 days old.
They must typically reapply 90 days or less before license expiration and no more than 30 days following it.

A Governor’s order currently allows renewal applications 120 days after license expiration. Cost is $30, which is reduced to $7 for RLEOs who worked 10 of the 12 years before retirement. Contact your local probate court to be certain of the renewal process.

Step Two:

Complete the application online or pick one up from the probate court in your county.

Step Three:

You will need the following documents in order to submit your application;

Completed application form;
Copy of birth certificate or U.S. passport; and
Drivers license or state ID card.

Pay the fee.

Step Four:

You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.

Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers and Retired LEOs

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) permits active and retired law enforcement officers to CC anywhere in the United States or its territories, regardless of local or state laws. Some exceptions apply for government property and any private property where the owners have prohibitions on firearms.

Georgia code grants LEOs and RLEOs exemption from sections 16-11-126 and 16-11-127.2 of the state’s CC law. It is required, however, that RLEOs meet the annual firearms qualification and receive at least three hours of firearms training annually from an instructor certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST).

Firearms Training & Competency

The certified instructors at Concealed Coalition will teach you the applicable laws for your state and how to carry and fire a firearm safely. Training is available across the U.S. and online, so contact us with any questions or to sign up.

Georgia citizens are not required to take a class or undergo firearms training before applying for their WCL. It must be stressed, however, that proper firearms training is invaluable for any individual with the right to carry a gun, especially those who do not receive training as part of their employment. Firearms awareness and legal knowledge are available from numerous providers, including:

A Firearms Training Course With a State-Certified Instructor

Concealed Coalition offers firearms training to help you gain a CC license. Our highly specialized instructors provide actionable lessons based on their extensive practical experience to ensure you gain tested and reliable skills.

NRA Training

The National Rifle Association offers several types of training at a wide range of locations. Use its local training locator to find local classes and specific lessons by selecting any course and entering your state at the bottom of the page.

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

The military issues document DD 214 when a service member performs active duty or has completed at least 90 consecutive days of active-duty training. Recipients may get an official copy of their DD 214 through the Georgia DVS. Some counties, such as Paulding County, suggest that any party younger than 21 seeking their WCL submit a DD 214 if they have earned one. Check with your county authorities to see if you need this form to proceed.

Hunter Safety Courses

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources offers hunter education, which is compulsory for residents and nonresidents born on or after January 1, 1961, who are seeking their hunting license. Hunter education courses issued by any other state or Canadian province are acceptable. Some resources are free, but all provide valuable insight into the use of firearms.

Get Certified for a Georgia Concealed Carry Permit Today

It can be challenging to sort through all the various Georgia reciprocity gun laws, but there’s a better way. Concealed Coalition has certified instructors qualified across multiple states, and our online or local training classes provide convenient learning environments run by instructors who care.

Our team is dedicated to dispelling the myths surrounding gun ownership and promoting a culture of understanding, responsibility, and confidence. Contact us today to discuss your concealed carry permit educational needs.

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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