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

Oregon Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

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

Oregon State Seal

Oregon Reciprocity Map

Oregon Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

4.3M

STATE POPULATION

300K

LICENSES ISSUED

7%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

0

STATES HONORED

21

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

4

YEARS LICENSE VALID

25

RECIPROCATING STATES

NO

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

TBA

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

Becoming a responsible citizen and firearm owner depends on clearly understanding the gun rights and state laws that apply to you. Oregon is one of America’s fastest-growing states in terms of population and is home to 4.3 million people. The state had distributed around 300,000 concealed carry (CC) licenses as of August 2021. This means that 7% of the population is allowed to CC.

Understanding Oregon CCW reciprocity – how your gun rights translate across state lines – is also essential to Oregon concealed carry. A concealed weapons license from Oregon is honored in 22 states (see the Oregon CHL reciprocity map above), but Oregon does not recognize permits or licenses from any other state. The minimum age to CC in Oregon is 21, and the license is valid for four years.

Those interested in obtaining an Oregon concealed carry license need 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 Oregon CCW license.

Summary of Oregon Gun Laws

Your Oregon Gun Rights

Local county sheriff’s offices issue Oregon CHL permits. Oregon follows the “shall issue” model of firearms license dispensation, meaning that the state must issue a license to any applicant successfully meeting the state’s requirements for ownership (described in question three of Oregon’s License Questions FAQ).

Purchasing a firearm doesn’t require a license, but private transfers must be done through a licensed dealer who will record the sale and conduct a background check. House Bill 2005, passed in 2023, prohibits transferring certain firearms to individuals known or suspected to be under 21.

Gun rights can differ depending on where you are. This is what makes a working understanding of your home state’s rules so important. Oregon residents should always contact their local county sheriff’s office for the latest information on Oregon CCW laws. Here are the current firearms laws for Oregon:

Open Carry in Oregon

Oregon sets an age limit of 18 and up on open carry, which is legal without a license at the state level. Individual counties and cities can set their own rules on who may CC and where, however.

Concealed Carry in Oregon

CC documentation in Oregon is called a CHL, or Concealed Handgun License. CC is only legal when possessing a CHL, being at least 21 years old, and having completed a state-approved firearms competency course or other qualifying criteria (detailed below).

Self Defense Laws in Oregon

Oregon statute has strict rules on what constitutes the various uses of force, including where and how they can be applied. This is critical knowledge for all firearms owners to help them act more confidently within the limits of the law.

Use of Force

Oregon allows the use of physical force for those defending themselves or someone else when under the belief that it will prevent unlawful use of force from an aggressor. They may also use it in defense of premises and property.

Use of Deadly Force

Deadly force is legal only under three circumstances: to prevent an aggressor from committing or attempting to commit either a felony of force, a burglary in a dwelling, or use of deadly force against a victim.

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

It’s vital to be aware of the legal definitions of acceptable use of force before acting against an aggressor. Understanding Oregon’s Choice of Evils will put you in a stronger position to do so.

Firearms training is a reliable way to gain the situational and legal awareness that helps you judge when to apply force of any kind. Concealed Coalition has trained people nationwide to become responsible, certified gun owners. Classes are available locally and online.

Oregon 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 (503) 825-8225 or email to discuss your concealed carry permit educational needs..

Quick Links

OREGON CONCEALED CARRY LAWS - THE BASICS

QUESTION

ANSWER

Does Oregon recognize constitutional carry?

No.

Is open carry permitted in Oregon?

Is Oregon open carry? Yes, without a license. However, local governments can prohibit open carry for persons who do not have an Oregon concealed handgun license and are carrying a loaded handgun in public places (inside of vehicles are considered public places). For instance, the cities of Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Oregon City, Salem and Independence, plus the entirety of Multnomah County, prohibit open carry of loaded firearms. All public buildings are off-limits for those that open carry without an Oregon concealed handgun license.

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

Oregon is a shall-issue state with concealed carry applications processed at the county level by the local sheriff’s office.

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

The minimum age is 21 for handgun possession in Oregon.

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

Yes. No permit is necessary.

Is pepper spray legal in Oregon for purchase or use?

Yes.

Does Oregon have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No.

Does Oregon have ammunition restrictions?

Possession of Teflon-coated or similarly treated ammunition is illegal if the ammo is intended for soft-armor penetration in a felony act.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN OREGON

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

Oregon concealed carry rules prohibit concealed carry in Oregon in:

  • Any location prohibited by federal law
  • Private property or private businesses
  • State colleges, community colleges, and universities (and their attendant properties) if they’ve posted prohibiting signs and given online notice
  • Court facilities, unless with a judge’s permission
  • Racetracks
  • Correctional facilities
  • Secured airport areas
  • The Capitol
  • Public buildings
  • Indian property and reservations
  • National forests or parks with prohibiting signs
  • Any Commission for the Blind property

Never consider any list of restricted locations exhaustive. Call ahead to ask about an intended location’s firearms policy.

Where can I carry a concealed firearm in Oregon?

Concealed carry Oregon licensees may carry in places of worship if permitted by the owners and on certain education premises if allowed by that body. Other accepted locations are covered later in this FAQ.

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

Yes, with a CHL, but localities may have provisions against this. Unlicensed carriers may not have a concealed weapon anywhere that’s readily accessible; it must be securely locked away onboard.

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

Yes, as long as you have a CHL.

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

Yes, with your CHL. Call the location in advance to be certain of current Oregon concealed carry requirements and restrictions.

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

Yes, but only with your Oregon CHL.

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

Hotels are private businesses and can set their own rules. Concealed carry Oregon licensees should always check with the hotel to clarify their position in advance.

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

This is not defined under Oregon law, making it essential to consult with your employer before attempting to do so.

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN OREGON

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

There is no duty to inform an officer, but it’s considered good conduct to volunteer the information without being asked.

Are "No Weapons Allowed? signs enforced in Oregon? 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, but the wishes of a private property owner that any CC licensee leave their premises must be respected to avoid committing trespassing.

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

Yes, but localities may enforce their own rules regarding possession and discharge.

Does Oregon have a red flag law?

Yes. which can be read on the DOJ site.

Does Oregon state law define brandishing?

Not specifically. Adjacent rules apply to intent to use, pointing, and menacing conduct.

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

It’s not specifically addressed.

Does Oregon issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Yes, if they can display demonstrated need, such as a business interest in the state (item 8).

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

No.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN OREGON

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Oregon?

No.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Oregon?

Yes. Private sales must be conducted by or processed through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) pursuant to a background check.

Does my current Oregon 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 Oregon?

No.

Do handguns need to be registered in Oregon?

Not by the buyer, but any individual conducting a trade or sale, such as a gun store owner, is required to keep a record of the sale.

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

The minimum age is 18.

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

Yes.

OREGON CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Oregon

An applicant must:

  • Be at least 21 years of age
  • Demonstrate competence with a handgun
  • Provide proof of residency (Oregon driver’s license, voter registration card, etc.)
  • Have a current address on his or her driver’s license
  • Be a citizen of the U.S.
  • Not have been convicted of a felony or found “guilty, except for insanity” of a felony
  • Not have been convicted of a misdemeanor or found “guilty, except for insanity” of a misdemeanor within the 4 years prior to the application
  • Not have been committed to the Oregon Health Authority
  • Not have been found to be mentally ill and not be subject to an order that the person be prohibited from purchasing or possessing a firearm as a result of that mental illness
  • Have no outstanding warrants for his or her arrest
  • Not have been convicted of an offense involving controlled substances or have participated in a court-supervised drug diversion program including a misdemeanor conviction for the possession of marijuana (unless it is the person’s first conviction or drug diversion)
  • Not be on any form of pretrial release;
    Not be registered as a sex offender in any state
  • Not have been discharged from the jurisdiction of a juvenile court in the previous 4 years if under such jurisdiction for committing an act which, if committed by an adult, would have constituted a felony or a misdemeanor
  • Not have received a dishonorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces
  • Not be subject to a citation for stalking or a protective order issued pursuant to certain statutory provisions

Fees:

  • Initial License $100 plus $15 for background check
  • Renewals $75

Valid For:

4 years.

Processing Time:

45 days.

Applications:

There is no single Oregon concealed carry application; each county has its own application.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Sheriffs “may issue” licenses to residents of contiguous states with compelling business interest or other legitimate demonstrated need. The process is the same as for residents.

Name & Address Changes:

The process varies by county. Contact your county sheriff’s office. There is a $15 fee.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

ou should report the loss of your concealed handgun license to the law-enforcement agency in the city or county in which you lost your license. Per the passage of SB 554, as of September 25, 2021, gun owners are required to report a stolen firearm within 72 hours of noticing it is gone. The process varies by county, but you may be able to apply online for a replacement. There is a $15 replacement fee.

Residency Changes:

Moving to Oregon and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?
Oregon issues licenses to residents and residents of contiguous states with compelling business interests or other legitimate demonstrated needs only. You can apply for your license with the sheriff of your county once you provide proof of residency with your current address (Oregon driver’s license, voter registration card, etc.) or, if you are a resident of a contiguous state, once you provide a compelling business interest or other legitimate demonstrated need.

Moving from Oregon and have an Oregon resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Oregon license remains valid?
If a person with an Oregon resident concealed handgun license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

OREGON CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

OVERVIEW

IN-PERSON

Step One:

Complete a firearm training course if required.

Step Two:

Complete an application form at your local county sheriff’s office or download the application.

Step Three:

Take the completed application to the county sheriff’s office with the following:

  • Training course certificate
  • Stamped, self-addressed envelope in which to mail your license
  • 2 forms of ID. 

You will be fingerprinted.

Step Four:

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

OREGON CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step One:

Renewal forms can be found at your local sheriff’s office or online, depending on your county of residence, such as this example from Clackamas County. Other counties may allow applicants to mail in renewals, while others may only renew by appointment.

Renewal fees are typically $50 with an additional $15 fingerprint check. Contact your local sheriff to learn more about renewal options and if you’re required to submit more than your fingerprints, Oregon driver’s license, and expiring CHL. Senate Bill 554 increased the CHL renewal fee statewide after September 25, 2021, to $100 for initial renewals and $75 for subsequent renewals (page 11).

Step Two:

Obtain an application form at your local county sheriff’s office. Some counties have an application you can download.

Step Three:

Take the completed application to the county sheriff’s office with the following:

  • Your current/expired Concealed Handgun License
  • Your Oregon Driver’s License.

Pay the fee.

Step Three:

You may receive a new CHL the same day. If not, 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) allows both active and retired law enforcement officers (LEOs and RLEOs) to CC anywhere in the U.S. with some restrictions. Some form of LEOSA qualification is typically necessary for LEOs and RLEOs to CC, but Oregon statutes aren’t typical. Honorably retired law enforcement officers, along with many other classifications of law officers, may legally carry in the state under ORS 166.250.

RLEOs in good standing are not required to meet qualification requirements of federal law, but they must meet Oregon state standards of firearm training every 12 months. The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) gives more details

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 to sign up or ask any questions.

It’s necessary to complete a state-approved firearms training program for Oregon concealed carry or to have equivalent experience via other avenues. There are many ways to achieve your CC qualifications in the state, and these are:

NRA Training

The NRA offers many different kinds and levels of training at a wide range of locations, including classes focused on helping women gain firearm skills. Use the local training locator to find specific lessons, as handgun safety must be part of the course under Oregon CC requirements.

Hunter Safety Courses

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife offers hunter education courses through certified instructors who provide firearm safety information as part of the curriculum. Classes are available in person for $10 and online at varying costs, depending on the provider.

Firearms Safety Courses From Other Providers

Public and private institutions, individuals, colleges, or law enforcement agencies often provide firearms training. The Oregon government site publishes a list of firearms instructors but reminds readers that this is a courtesy list and not an endorsement. Your sheriff’s department will require any instructor to be certified by a law enforcement agency or the NRA.

A Firearms Training Course With a State-Certified Instructor

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

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

The military document DD 214 is issued when a service member performs active duty or has completed at least 90 consecutive days of active-duty training. Equivalent handgun experience through military training is sufficient to qualify for CC. Retired or former military applicants should submit a copy of their DD 214 when applying for their CHL for the first time.

Documents from Participation in an Organized Shooting Competition

Applicants who can present evidence of equivalent experience with a handgun through participation in an organized shooting competition may consider this sufficient proficiency to CC.

Get Certified for a Oregon Concealed Carry Permit Today

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

Get Certified For An Oregon Concealed Carry Permit with Concealed Coalition

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.

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