Arizona is a shall-issue, permitless carry state with concealed weapons permits issued at the state level by the Department of Public Safety.
There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual. A purchaser must be at least 18 years old to buy a gun from a private individual. The minimum age to purchase a handgun from a federally licensed dealer is 21.
Open carry is legal in Arizona for any person who is at least 18 years old and who can legally possess a firearm. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and liquor stores that have posted “no weapons” signs.
Anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm, may concealed carry a firearm without a permit. Arizona Concealed Weapons Permits (CWP) are issued to residents and non-residents at least 21 years old or 19 for active military and veterans and require a firearms training course that has been state-approved, although there are training exemptions that may apply to law enforcement and members of the military, to name a few. In terms of reciprocity, since Arizona has permitless carry, any person 21 years of age and older who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm on his or her person without a license or permit.
Where can I carry with my Arizona permit?
Yes
Yes, Constitutional Carry
Yes, Other Restrictions
No
49 States Honored | 37 Reciprocating States
Switch State:
Select State to View Reciprocity with Arizona:
| Key Gun Laws | GO |
| Concealed Carry FAQ | GO |
| Concealed Carry License | GO |
| Concealed Carry Locations | GO |
| Self-Defense Laws | GO |
| Recent Law Changes | GO |
Important Firearm Laws
public access to concealed carry registry?
No, however the information is available to criminal justice agencies.
"no weapons allowed" signs enforced?
Yes. A person commits misconduct involving weapons by knowingly entering any public establishment, or attending any public event, carrying a deadly weapon after a reasonable request by the operator, sponsor or the sponsor's agent to remove his or her weapon and place it in the custody of the operator or sponsor for temporary and secure storage of the weapon. Misconduct involving weapons is a class 1 misdemeanor.
[Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102 & 13-3102.01]
Additionally, Arizona law permits private business owners (or their designates) to prohibit weapons from being brought onto their property, whether signs are posted or not. Failure to obey the request can result in your arrest for trespassing (ARS 13-1502/ARS 13-1503).
carry while consuming alcohol?
No consumption allowed.
[Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 4-244(31)]
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
duty to inform officer you're carrying?
No. You have no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a concealed weapon unless the officer asks.
preemption?
Yes. There is full state preemption of all gun laws. In addition, Section 13-3108 provides that if a court determines a political subdivision has knowingly violated the preemption law, the court may assess a civil penalty of up to $50,000, and if a court determines that a state official enacting a law or rule knowingly violated the preemption law, that person's term may be subject to termination.
driver's license linked to permit?
No. Your Arizona driver’s license is not linked to your Arizona concealed weapons permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry permit holder immediately when they run your driver’s license. However, LEOs may have access to other databases where they can obtain this information.
non-resident permitting?
Yes.
red flag law?
No. Arizona does not have a red flag law.
brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Arizona law. However, a person commits the crime of disorderly conduct if they recklessly handle, display or discharge a deadly weapon. Defensive displays of a firearm without justification could also be charged as aggravated assault. Defensive displays include actions such as putting your hand on a firearm while it is concealed in a pocket, sweeping the jacket to expose the firearm, or saying you have a firearm without drawing or waving it.
However, Arizona statutes specifically allow defensive displays and protect a citizen against being prosecuted for it when it is justified.
Carry Basics
public access to concealed carry registry?
No, however the information is available to criminal justice agencies.
magazine limits for handguns?
No.
minimum age for concealed carry?
21.
gun permit licensure?
Shall issue.
ammunition restrictions?
No.
weapons other than handguns allowed?
Yes. A permit allows for the carry of firearms, both loaded and unloaded, as well as deadly weapons which includes anything that is designed for lethal use.
permitless carry?
Yes.
open carry permitted?
Yes, without a permit. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry.
non-lethal weapons?
STUN GUNS and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit. A government issued identification is required for purchase.
PEPPER SPRAY - Legal for self-defense. There are no specific restrictions on size or concentration, but misuse may result in criminal charges.
TEAR GAS - Legal for self-defense purposes but subject to general misuse laws.
BEAR SPRAY - Legal in Arizona and recommended for self-defense against wildlife, particularly in bear country. It must be EPA-approved for effectiveness and safety.
BLUDGEONS AND BATONS - Collapsible or expandable batons are legal to own and carry in Arizona. Open carry is allowed for individuals aged 18 and older, while concealed carry is restricted to those aged 21 and older. Batons can be used for self-defense purposes as long as their use adheres to the principle of proportionality. Excessive or reckless use may lead to legal consequences.
Weapons such as blackjacks, slapjacks, billy clubs, sandbags, and sandclubs are illegal to own or carry in Arizona.
BRASS KNUCKLES - Legal to own and carry in Arizona. However:
byrna's?
Yes. It is legal for purchase and possession by civilians. Byrna guns are not classified as firearms under Arizona law. They can be carried openly or concealed without a permit. Misuse or use during criminal acts may result in charges.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
minimum age to possess and transport?
18 years old.
A person who sells or gives to a minor, without written consent of the minor's parent or legal guardian, a firearm, ammunition or a toy pistol by which dangerous and explosive substances may be discharged is guilty of a class 6 felony.
The temporary transfer of firearms and ammunition by firearms safety instructors, hunter safety instructors, competition coaches or their assistants shall be allowed if the minor's parent or guardian has given consent for the minor to participate in activities such as firearms or hunting safety courses, firearms competition or training. With the consent of the minor's parent or guardian, the temporary transfer of firearms and ammunition by an adult accompanying minors engaged in hunting or formal or informal target shooting activities shall be allowed for those purposes.
arizona permit exempts from background check?
Yes.
purchase permits?
No.
handgun registration?
No.
background checks for private gun sales?
No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun.
waiting period?
No.
possess a handgun on my private property without a permit?
Yes. Permitless carry is allowed in Arizona for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm.
Top Gun Laws & Concealed Carry Permit Information For Arizona Residents
Concealed Carry Basics Faq
what are the knife laws in arizona?
Most types of knives are legal and can be carried concealed, except in a vehicle when committing a serious offense, violent crime or felony. There is a duty to inform if asked by law enforcement. It is illegal for anyone under 21 to carry a concealed knife in a vehicle. Deadly weapons may not be possessed in a polling place on any election day or on school grounds.
hunter harassment law?
Yes. It is illegal to intentionally interfere with, prevent or disrupt the lawful taking of wildlife by another person.
carry while bow hunting?
Yes. See references in previous section.
carry while gun hunting?
Yes. The possession of legal weapons, devices, ammunition or magazines, which are not authorized to take wildlife, is not prohibited while hunting if the weapon or device is not used to take wildlife.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, any person may take wildlife in self-defense or in defense of another person if it is immediately necessary to protect oneself or to protect the other person.
wear a covid mask & carry?
While Arizona has no known mask restriction laws relating specifically to the carrying of firearms, masks may be considered an aggravating circumstance if charged with another crime.
Application:
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits:
Arizona doesn't distinguish between resident and non-resident for permits, so the process is the same for everyone. It should be noted that there is no requirement for out-of-state applicants to obtain training in the state of Arizona or apply in person. If the applicant can demonstrate competence with a handgun through one of the approved methods identified in the training requirements section in their home state, they may request an application through email and submit it via the mail.
Processing Time:
75 calendar days
Residency Changes:
Moving to Arizona and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply? Is your concealed carry permit from your former state transferable?Arizona doesn't distinguish between resident and non-resident permits, so you can apply for your permit at any time. You may carry concealed utilizing another state's permit as long as that permit is valid and in good standing. Although your permit isn't transferable, you may be able to use it as proof of firearms competence when applying for an Arizona permit. Contact the permit unit for additional information.
Moving from Arizona and have an Arizona resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Arizona permit remains valid?If a person with an Arizona concealed weapon permit establishes residency in another state, the permit is valid until it expires provided that individual submits the above referenced name/address change form.
Valid For:
5 years
Fees:
New Permit $60Permit Renewal $43Replacement Permit (lost, stolen or name change) $10
Requirements:
An applicant must:
*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 Arizona.
Lost/Stolen Permits:
For lost or stolen permits, print the Change Name/Address form, complete the appropriate section(s) and mail the form and required fee to the permit unit at the address listed on the form. A replacement permit, with a new permit number, will be generated and mailed to you.
Name/Address Changes:
For changes of address, name changes or errors, fill out the Change Name/Address form. A replacement permit will be generated and mailed to you.
Step 1:
STEP 2:
Complete a firearms safety training course, or meet one of the exemptions outlined in the Training Requirements Section.
STEP 3:
Submit the following:
Step 4:
Return the application with two sets of fingerprints, proof of training and the fee.
STEP 5:
You will be notified if your application has been approved.
carry in vehicle?
Yes, without a permit for anyone that is 21 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm. Firearms must be in plain view from outside the vehicle for anyone that is under 21 years old.
carry/possess at a hotel?
Arizona statutes don't specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and the individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
carry at roadside rest areas?
Yes.
carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
Arizona's statutes are contradictory as ARS§ 4-229(A) indicates no permit is required to concealed carry in a bar/restaurant that serves alcohol while 4-244(29) and (30) indicate concealed carry is legal with or without a permit, unless posted and provided you don’t consume any alcohol.
[Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§ 4-229(A), 4-244(29)(c), (30)(c) and 4-244(31)]
store in a vehicle in an employee parking lot?
Firearms can legally be carried in a case, holster, scabbard, pack or luggage that is carried within a means of transportation or within a storage compartment, map pocket, trunk or glove compartment of a means of transportation.
A property owner, tenant, public or private employer, or business entity shall not establish, maintain or enforce a policy or rule that prohibits a person who can legally possess a firearm from lawfully transporting or lawfully storing any firearm that is both:
1. In the person's locked and privately owned motor vehicle or in a locked compartment on the person's privately owned motorcycle; and
2. Not visible from the outside of the motor vehicle or motorcycle.
This section does not apply if, in part:
The property owner, tenant, public or private employer or business entity provides a parking lot, parking garage or other area designated for parking motor vehicles, that:
carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and wildlife management areas (wmas)?
Yes, although firearms are not allowed in any building where a Federal or state office is located. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Arizona.
tribal lands?
AK-Chin Indian Community - ONLY with permission from the tribal authorities
Cocopah Indian Tribe - NO. Possession of rifles and handguns is prohibited.
Colorado River Indian Tribes - ONLY with permission from the tribal authorities A3-sec345
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation - ONLY with permission from the tribal authorities Sec6-123
Fort Mohave Indian Tribe - NO
Gila River Indian Community - NO 5.1301
Havasupai Tribe - NO - Regulations
Hopi Tribe - Mandates a permit issued by the judge of the Hopi Trial Court 3.11.1
Hualapai Tribe - NO - Regulations
Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians - NO
Navajo Nation - YES, With a valid Arizona permit Section 320
Pascua Yaqui Tribe - NO - Section 490
Pueblo of Zuni - NO
Quechan Indian Tribe - A permit is required for concealed carry
Salt River Pima - Maricopa Indian Tribe - NO - Sec. 6-151
San Carlos Apache Tribe - ONLY with permission from the tribal authorities
Tohono O'odham Nation - NO - Section 14.1
Tonto Apache Tribe - NO
White Mountain Apache Tribe - A permit is required for concealed carry Sec. 2.18
Yavapai-Apache Nation - NO
Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe - NO
Use of Force in Crime Prevention
A person is justified in threatening or using both physical force and deadly physical force if and to the extent the person reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to prevent a number of violent felonies, including murder and sexual assault.
Use of Physical Force in Defense of Property
A person is justified in using physical force when and to the extent that a reasonable person would believe it necessary to prevent theft or criminal damage involving tangible movable property. A person may use deadly force only in the defense of himself or a third person.
Use of Force
A person is justified in threatening or using physical force when and to the extent a reasonable person would believe that physical force is immediately necessary to protect himself or a third party against the other’s use or attempted use of unlawful physical force.
Civil Immunity
Use of Deadly Force
A person is justified in threatening or using physical force or deadly force against another:
Use of Physical Force in Defense of Premises
A person in lawful possession or control of premises is justified in threatening to use physical force when and to the extent that a reasonable person would believe it immediately necessary to prevent or terminate criminal trespass in or upon the premises. A person may use deadly force only in the defense of himself or a third person.
“Premises” means any real property and any structure — movable or immovable, permanent or temporary — adapted for both human residence and lodging whether occupied or not.
Self-Defense
Arizona is a Castle Doctrine state and state laws effectively allow people to stand their ground. There is no duty to retreat before defending yourself if you are in a place where you may legally be and you are not engaged in an unlawful act.
Arizona Gun Law Updates
DateDetails
2025-03-31
Non-lethal weapons added to Carry Basics section.
2024-11-13
Added Tribal Land sections to map
2021-05-17
Added info on driver's license link to permit in Key State Laws
2020-11-10
Added information on training exemptions in the Training Section
Related Blog Posts
Arizona Gun Laws: What You Should Know
As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it may be to stay up to date on your state’s gun laws… Arizona residents, you’re in luck. We’ve accumulated some of the most frequently asked questions about Arizona gun laws and are now bringing you the answers! (Not from Arizona? Find your state and […]