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Rhode Island Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

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

Rhode Island Reciprocity Map

Last Updated on March 12, 2024

Rhode Island Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

1M

STATE POPULATION

2K

LICENSES ISSUED

0.2%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

0

STATES HONORED

21

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

4

YEARS LICENSE VALID

26

RECIPROCATING STATES

NO

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

TBA

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

Know Your Rights as a Gun Owner in Rhode Island

If you are a gun owner in Rhode Island, it is your responsibility to know the gun laws in your state and how they apply when you cross state lines. These Rhode Island gun laws are subject to change, so it is essential that you remain up-to-date.

Rhode Island is home to one million people. About 2000 people, or 0.2% of the population, have a Rhode Island concealed carry permit. The minimum age to carry a concealed firearm is 21, and licenses are good for four years.

In order to acquire a Rhode Island concealed carry permit, the state requires you to take a firearms training course that includes a live-firing test. At Concealed Coalition, we have trained more than a million U.S. citizens in firearm safety. Contact us today to find the training you need to get your permit in Rhode Island.

Summary of Rhode Island Gun Laws

Your Rhode Island Gun Rights

In Rhode Island, you can obtain a License to Carry Concealed Weapons (LCCW) one of two ways: by submitting an application to local law enforcement agents, or by submitting it through the attorney general’s office.

When you submit your application through local law enforcement, it is on a shall-issue basis, meaning as long as you meet the requirement, you will be issued a Rhode Island license to carry. Applications submitted through the attorney general’s office are issued on a may-issue basis, meaning they have some discretion as to whether or not to approve your application. In both cases, you must present the reason that you need a firearm in order to be approved.

Open Carry in Rhode Island

The minimum age to open carry is 21, and you must have a Rhode Island LCCW issued by the attorney general, not one issued by the local police. You must take a training course with a live-fire test and explain why you need a firearm to be issued one.

Concealed Carry in Rhode Island

Per Rhode Island concealed carry laws, you must have an LCCW issued by the attorney general or local authorities in order to conceal and carry. The attorney general may issue LCCW to non-residents whether or not they have permits in their own state. Federal buildings, state parks, and certain other areas are off-limits.

Self Defense Laws in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a castle doctrine state with no duty to retreat in your own home. However, you do have a duty to retreat outside your home.

Use of Force

You may use force to protect yourself or another if you have the reasonable expectation that you are faced with imminent bodily harm. However, you have a duty to retreat outside the home if it is safe to do so.

Use of Deadly Force

You may only use deadly force if you have the reasonable expectation that deadly force is about to be used against you or another person, and you are unable to retreat safely.

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

There are many factors that go into whether or not your actions will be viewed as self-defense under Rhode Island state law. Ultimately, a judge or jury will determine whether or not you should be convicted of a crime.

That is why it is so important to work with the right training partner when you are working towards getting your certification. At Concealed Coalition, we can teach you how to determine when the use of force is necessary and when to retreat.

Rhode Island Gun Laws by Statute

It’s essential for Rhode Island firearm owners to remember that the following 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 (401) 213-1331 or email to discuss your Rhode Island concealed carry permit educational needs.

Quick Links

RHODE ISLAND CONCEALED CARRY - THE BASICS

QUESTION

ANSWER

What States Have Rhode Island Reciprocity?

The following states allow permitless carry or honor Rhode Island LCCWs: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Which States’ Permits Does Rhode Island Honor?

Rhode Island does not honor permits from any other state.

States That Have Restricted Rhode Island Reciprocity

The following states have restricted reciprocity with Rhode Island: Arizona, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Does Rhode Island recognize constitutional carry?

No, Rhode Island is not a constitutional carry state.

Is open carry permitted in Rhode Island?

Yes, but only with an LCCW issued by Rhode Island. Rhode Island does not recognize permits from any other state.

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

They are issued on a shall-issue basis by local law enforcement or a may-issue basis by the attorney general’s office.

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

You must be at least 21 to get a concealed carry permit in Rhode Island.

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

No, you may not.

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

No, both tasers and stun guns are illegal in Rhode Island.

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

You may be wondering, “Is pepper spray legal in RI?” The answer is yes, anyone over the age of 18 may use and carry pepper spray unless you are prohibited by law from doing so. You may also use it for self-defense of yourself or another person. Any other use is subject to a fine of up to $25.

Does Rhode Island have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No, there are no magazine restrictions in Rhode Island.

Does Rhode Island have ammunition restrictions?

Yes. You are not permitted to own armor-piercing ammunition.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN RHODE ISLAND

QUESTION

ANSWER

Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Rhode Island?

Yes, as long as you hold a concealed carry permit from Rhode Island, you may carry a concealed firearm. You may also transport a firearm as long as you are just transporting that firearm and are not intending to stay in the state.

If you do not have a valid permit, your firearm must be unloaded and stored separately from the ammunition in an area that is not readily accessible. Acceptable locations in a trunk or locked box attached to the vehicle.

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

As long as you have an LCCW, you are permitted to carry at a rest stop.

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

No, this is not permitted.

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

Yes, as long as you have an LCCW and are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

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

That is up to the discretion of the hotel, and the establishment is allowed to remove guests who possess firearms or other items that may pose a danger to others.

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

Rhode Island does not have a law that specifically outlines the storage of firearms in a private vehicle stored on employer property.

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN RHODE ISLAND

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

You do not have a duty to inform an officer that you are carrying a concealed firearm.

Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Rhode Island? 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, they are not enforceable by law.

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

In most cases, Rhode Island has preemption. However, local municipalities may impose ordinances in regard to public safety.

Does Rhode Island have a red flag law?

Yes. A law enforcement agency is allowed to file a petition to enjoin a person from possessing, purchasing, or attempting to possess or purchase a firearm while the court order is in effect.

Does Rhode Island state law define brandishing?

No, the law does not define brandishing. However, you may be charged and convicted of disorderly conduct if you intentionally engage in fighting, violence, or in a tumultuous manner.

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

You may not carry a concealed firearm while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Does Rhode Island issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Yes, to both non-residents and non-US citizens with or without a concealed carry permit from another state. However, if you do not have a concealed carry permit from another state, you must apply through the attorney general’s office.

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

No, the public does not have access to that, and it is not considered an open public record.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN RHODE ISLAND

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Rhode Island?

You must have either valid LCCW to purchase a firearm, or you must complete a two-hour handgun safety course administered by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and present your DEM-issued certificate. You must be at least 21 in either of these scenarios.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Rhode Island?

Yes. Both private unlicensed sellers and licensed dealers must perform a background check on anyone wishing to purchase a handgun. These background checks are to be conducted through the local chief of police or the state police. Buyers must complete an application authorizing said background check, and the authority has seven days to verify the background check. Full-time members of the state marshal’s office, correctional officers, and state and local police officers are exempt.

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

No, your LCCW does not exempt you from undergoing a background check in Rhode Island.

Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Rhode Island?

Yes, there is a seven-day waiting period in Rhode Island.

Do handguns need to be registered in Rhode Island?

No, firearms do not need to be registered in the state of Rhode Island.

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

The minimum age to transport a firearm in Rhode Island is 18. Additionally, you do not need an LCCW if you are merely passing through the state with no intent to stay.

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

Yes, you do not need to have an LCCW to carry in your own dwelling, land, or place of business as long as you are legally allowed to possess a firearm.

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Rhode Island

Quick Links

RHODE ISLAND CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Rhode Island

An applicant must:

Meet all federal requirements
Be at least 21
Be a resident or own a business in the town in which you are applying if applying through local law enforcement OR be a resident of the United States with a valid concealed carry permit or license from another state or submit your application to the attorney general if you do not have a concealed carry permit in another state. Residents who are not legal U.S. citizens may also apply and be approved through the attorney general’s office.
Not be prohibited from possessing a handgun in any other state or by court order
Provide proof of qualification in front of a certified weapons instructor within a year of your application.
Prove that you are suitable to be licensed under Rhode Island state law.
Provide a proper reason to be licensed, has reason to fear for their personal safety or property.

Fees:

There is a $40 fee for initial license applications and renewals.

Valid For:

Your license will be valid for four years.

Processing Time:

There is a processing time of up to 90 days.

Applications:

You can find an application here.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Non-residents may apply to local law enforcement or attorney general if they have a concealed carry license or permit from another state. They must apply to the attorney general if they do not have a permit from another state.

Name & Address Changes:

To request a name change, you may either contact your local authorities or the attorney general’s office.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

If you lose your license or believe it was stolen, you must contact the issuing authority or attorney general’s office, and they will be able to issue you a duplicate.

Residency Changes:

If you are moving out of Rhode Island, your LCCW may be valid until it expires. If you are moving to Rhode Island and you have a concealed carry permit from another state, you may apply to local authorities at any time or the attorney general’s office if you do not.

RHODE ISLAND CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

Step One:

Obtain your firearms qualification within 1 year of submitting your application.

Step Two:

Download the application. Complete the form and have it notarized. You will need 3 typed, signed and dated notarized reference letters.

Step Three:

Have passport-style photographs taken. You will need 2 photos.

Step Four:

If applying through the attorney general, the application must be signed or stamped by the local police chief or a city hall official in the city or town of the applicant’s residence.

Step Five:

In addition to the notarized application and reference letters, you will need to submit the following documents:

2 FBI fingerprint cards;
2 forms of identification, signed and dated by a Notary Public;
2 passport-style photographs;
2 copies of your birth certificate or passport;
Firearms training certificate along with a copy of the instructor’s NRA/FBI firearms instructor certification;
All non-residents applying through local authorities must include a copy of their home state permit;
If the license is to be used for employment, a typed and signed letter of explanation must be submitted on company letterhead along with a copy of the business license as proof that the business exists; and
If the license is NOT for employment, a typed and dated letter must be submitted by the applicant stating the reasons why a license is needed on a full-time basis.

Pay the fees.

Step Six:

You will be notified by mail of approval or denial of license. If approved, you must appear in person to pick up license.

RHODE ISLAND CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step One:

Obtain your firearms qualification within 1 year of submitting your application.

Step Two:

Download the application. Complete the form and have it notarized.

Step Three:

Have passport-style photographs taken. You will need 2 photos.

Step Four:

If applying through the attorney general, the application must be signed or stamped by the local police chief or a city hall official in the city or town of the applicant’s residence.

Step Five:

In addition to the notarized application, you will need to submit the following documents:

2 forms of identification, signed and dated by a Notary Public
2 passport-style photographs
2 copies of your birth certificate or passport
Firearms training certificate along with a copy of the instructor’s NRA/FBI firearms instructor certification
All non-residents applying through local authorities must include a copy of their home state permit
If the license is to be used for employment, a typed and signed letter of explanation must be submitted on company letterhead along with a copy of the business license as proof that the business exists
If the license is NOT for employment, a typed and dated letter must be submitted by the applicant stating the reasons why a license is needed on a full-time basis.

Pay the fees.

Step Six:

You will be notified by mail of approval or denial of license. If approved, you must appear in person to pick up license.

Get Certified for a Rhode Island Concealed Carry Permit Today

If you wish to obtain an LCCW in the state of Rhode Island, you will need to complete an approved gun safety training course with live fire. At Concealed Coalition, we have helped more than one million people obtain the training they need to successfully apply for such a permit.

Contact us today to find a training course that is near you. We look forward to answering any questions.

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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