Pennsylvania is a shall-issue state with concealed weapons licenses issued at the county level by the sheriff’s office or if a resident of a city of the first class, with the chief of police of that city.
There is no permit required to purchase firearms and although there is no comprehensive firearms registration, the state police maintain a database of all handgun buyers. Private-party transfers of handguns must be conducted through a licensed dealer or at a county sheriff’s office, and a background check is required. These requirements do not apply to transfers between spouses, parents and children, or grandparents and grandchildren.
Open carry is legal in Pennsylvania for anyone 18 or older who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. Be aware that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court a decision in Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Darren Montgomery, 234 A.3d 523 (PA 2020), holding that sometimes a visible firearm is a concealed firearm. This decision has created uncertainty about the definition of open carry. You will need a Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms (LTC) or a permit/license from a state with which PA has reciprocity in order to open or conceal carry in a vehicle and to open carry in the city of Philadelphia. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and courthouses. A district court ruled that the law banning the carry of firearms in a vehicle without a permit was unconstitutional. He enjoined Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Col. Christoper Paris from enforcing these provisions. In September of 2024, a judge issued a stay on this ruling, again, making it ILLEGAL to carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle unless you have a valid permit.
Pennsylvania LTCs are issued to residents and non-residents that are at least 21 years old. Non-residents must already have a permit to carry in their home state in order to obtain a Pennsylvania license. There is no training requirement. In terms of reciprocity, Pennsylvania only honors resident CCW licenses from states with which it has a reciprocity agreement.
*On January 15th, 2024, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that laws barring 18-20 year olds were unconstitutional.
**On October 15th, 2024, The Supreme Court overturned the Circuit Court of Appeals decision that allowed 18-20 year olds to acquire a permit.
Pennsylvania is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. There is no duty to retreat in your residence or any place where you have a legal right to be if confronted with a deadly weapon or an object that appears to be one. Under the law, the use of force against another person is justifiable if the person who acts in self-defense believes that the use of force is: “immediately necessary for the purpose of protecting himself [or herself] against the use of unlawful force by such other person on the present occasion.”
Use of Force for the Protection of Property The use of force is justifiable when the actor believes that such force is immediately necessary:
Use of Force in Self-Protection or the Protection of Others The use of force is justifiable when the actor believes that such force is immediately necessary for the purpose of protecting himself or herself or a third party against the use of unlawful force. Deadly force is only justifiable if an actor believes it is necessary to protect one’s self or a third party against death, serious bodily injury, kidnapping or sexual assault. However, such force is not justified if the actor knows that he or she can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety by retreating; except the actor is not obliged to retreat from his or her dwelling or place of work, unless he or she was the initial aggressor or is assailed in the place of work by another person whose place of work the actor knows it to be.
An actor is presumed to have a reasonable belief that deadly force is immediately necessary to protect himself or herself against death, serious bodily injury, kidnapping or sexual intercourse compelled by force or threat if both of the following conditions exist:
Where can I carry with my Pennsylvania permit?
Yes
Yes, Constitutional Carry
Yes, Other Restrictions
No
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Important Firearm Laws
non-resident permitting?
Yes. Non-residents who possess a current license or permit or similar document to carry a firearm issued by their home state (if a license is provided for by the laws of that state) may apply for a non-resident permit.
duty to inform officer you're carrying?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Pennsylvania unless the officer asks.
brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Pennsylvania law. However, a person is guilty of disorderly conduct if, with intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof, he engages in fighting or threatening, or in violent or tumultuous behavior; or creates a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act which serves no legitimate purpose of the actor.
preemption?
Yes. The authority to regulate firearms is reserved to the state, except local municipalities may regulate the discharge of firearms within the cities boundaries. This has been reinforced by the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas decision against the City of Pittsburgh in Anderson v. City of Pittsburgh. The court found that Pittsburgh's attempt to impose local gun control measures was a clear violation of state preemption law.
public access to concealed carry registry?
No. The Pennsylvania concealed carry registry is not accessible to the public.
red flag law?
Pennsylvania does not have a red flag law.
"no weapons allowed" signs enforced?
No. Pennsylvania does not recognize "No Weapons" signs.
driver's license linked to carry license?
Yes. Your Pennsylvania driver’s license is linked to your Pennsylvania license to carry firearms. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.
carry while using alcohol or drugs?
Not addressed in state statutes.
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.
Carry Basics
constitutional carry?
No. Pennsylvania does not allow constitutional carry.
magazine limits for handguns?
No. The Allegheny Court of Common Pleas decided against the City of Pittsburgh in Anderson v. City of Pittsburgh. The court found that Pittsburgh's attempt to impose local gun control measures was a clear violation of state preemption law.
weapons other than handguns allowed?
Yes. Pennsylvania concealed carry includes any pistol or revolver with a barrel length less than 15 inches, any shotgun with a barrel length less than 18 inches or any rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches, or any pistol, revolver, rifle or shotgun with an overall length of less than 26 inches. The barrel length of a firearm shall be determined by measuring from the muzzle of the barrel to the face of the closed action, bolt or cylinder, whichever is applicable.
minimum age for concealed carry?
The minimum age to concealed carry in Pennsylvania is 21 years old.
ammunition restrictions?
Yes. It is illegal for any person to possess KTW teflon-coated bullets or other armor-piercing ammunition with the intent to use the ammunition in a crime.
open carry permitted?
Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry. A license is required in a vehicle and in the city of Philadelphia.
Be aware that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court a decision in Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Darren Montgomery, 234 A.3d 523 (PA 2020), holding that sometimes a visible firearm is a concealed firearm. This decision has created uncertainty about the definition of open carry.
gun permit licensure?
Pennsylvania is a shall-issue state.
non-lethal weapons?
STUN GUNS and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm. A person may possess and use an electric or electronic incapacitation device in the exercise of reasonable force in defense of the person or the person's property if the electric or electronic incapacitation device is labeled with or accompanied by clearly written instructions as to its use and the damages involved in its use.
PEPPER SPRAY - Legal for self-defense purposes. Pennsylvania imposes no restricitons on size or concentration. Prohibited in schools, government buildings, and other restricted areas.
TEAR GAS - Legal for self-defense against wildlife. No specific state restrictions but misuse against humans could lead to legal consequences.
BEAR SPRAY - Legal for self-defense against wildlife. No specific state restrictions, but misuse against humans could lead to legal consequences.
BLUDGEONS AND BATONS - Expandable batons are legal to own and carry in Pennsylvania. Batons are not classified as "prohibited offensive weapons," so they can be carried openly or concealed without a permit.
Items such as billy clubs, slapjacks, and nightsticks are also legal unless used with criminal intent.
BRASS KNUCKLES - Illegal under Pennsylvania law. Brass knuckles are classified as "prohibited offensive weapons," and their possession, sale, or carry is prohibited.
byrna's?
Yes. These are legal for purchase and possession. Byrna guns are not classified as firearms under Pennsylvania law.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
purchase permits?
No. Pennsylvania does not require a special permit at time of handgun purchase.
background checks for private gun sales? exceptions?
Yes. Private party transfers of handguns must be conducted through a licensed dealer or at a county sheriff’s office. A background check is required. These requirements do not apply to transfers between spouses, parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren.
waiting period?
No. The state of Pennsylvania does not require a waiting time for handgun purchases.
pennsylvania license exempts from background check?
No.
possess a handgun on my private property without a license?
Yes. A License to Carry Firearms is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm in the person’s place of abode or fixed place of business.
handgun registration?
No. Handgun registration is not required in Pennsylvania.
minimum age to possess and transport?
18 years old is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Pennsylvania.
Top Gun Laws & Concealed Carry Permit Information For Pennsylvania Residents
Concealed Carry Basics Faq
hunter harassment law?
Yes. It is unlawful for another person at the location where the activity is taking place to intentionally obstruct or interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife.
what are the knife laws in pennsylvania?
It is legal to openly carry or conceal any type of knife in Pennsylvania. Knives are prohibited on the grounds of any K-12 school and in courthouse buildings. Municipalities such as Philadelphia, which prohibits cutting weapons in public places, may have additional restrictions.
[18 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 907, 908, 912 and 913]
wear a covid mask & carry?
There is no known statute in Pennsylvania making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. In addition, the Pennsylvania State Police have indicated, “There is no prohibition in Pennsylvania on license to carry permit holders wearing a mask during the ongoing COVID-19 mitigation efforts.”
carry while gun hunting?
Yes, with a LTC or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity.
carry while bow hunting?
Yes, with a LTC or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity.
Valid For:
5 years
Fees:
Initial License and Renewals $20
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 Pennsylvania.
Processing Time:
45 days
Name/Address Changes:
If you change your address or your name is legally changed, you need to go to your county/city Sheriff’s Office for the update. You will need an updated PA driver’s license or ID with the new address or name and $5.00. Your card will be issued for the balance of your time. If your expiration is within 60 days, you can renew with an application.
Residency Changes:
Moving to Pennsylvania and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?Pennsylvania issues licenses to residents and permit holders from other states. You can apply for your resident license to the sheriff of your county once you have been a resident of the county for at least 90 days.
Moving from Pennsylvania and have a Pennsylvania resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Pennsylvania license remains valid?If a person with a Pennsylvania resident license to carry firearms establishes residency in another state, the license may expire upon the establishment of residence in the other state. Contact your local issuing authority for details.
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:
Non-residents who possess a current license or permit or similar document to carry a firearm issued by their home state (if a license is provided for by the laws of that state) may apply for a non-resident license. The process is similar to that for residents.
*Please note that a Pennsylvania non-resident LTC is typically valid for 5 years, but is tied to your resident license. Therefore, if your resident permit expires or is revoked, your LTC is no longer valid. [18 Pa. Cons. Stat, § 6109(e)(ix) and (i)]
Lost/Stolen Licenses:
Go to your county/city sheriff’s office to have your Pennsylvania LTC replaced. You will need a valid driver’s license or state ID and $5.00. It will be issued for the balance of your time after a PICS check is completed. If your expiration is within 60 days, you can renew with an application.
Application:
Step 1:
Download the application on your county's website or go to your county sheriff’s office to obtain an application. Some counties, such as Lancaster, offer online applications (for residents only). Non-residents should verify that a county sheriff's office processes out-of-state licenses and the procedure they follow. Some counties require that applications be submitted in person and not all counties process out-of-state licenses.
Step 2:
Complete the application. The applicant must:
Take the completed application to your county sheriff’s office or the chief of police.
Pay the fee.
Your photo will be taken.
Step 3:
If your background check clears quickly, you may be able to leave with your license. Otherwise, you will be notified by mail within 45 days if your application has been approved.
store in a vehicle in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in Pennsylvania state law.
carry/possess at a hotel?
Pennsylvania 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 in vehicle?
Yes, with a LTC or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity. There are a number of exceptions identified in § 6106(b) where firearms may be carried either loaded or transported unloaded with ammunition stored in a separate container by individuals without a license. Exceptions include law enforcement officers, on-duty members of the military as well as a number of others.
carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and wildlife management areas (wmas)?
Yes, with a LTC or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity.
[34 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2525 & 58 PA Cons. Stat. § 135.41]
carry at roadside rest areas?
Yes, with a LTC or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity.
carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry with a LTC or permit from a state with which PA has reciprocity, unless posted.
Use of Force for the Protection of Property
The use of force is justifiable when the actor believes that such force is immediately necessary:
Self-Defense
Pennsylvania is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. There is no duty to retreat in your residence or any place where you have a legal right to be if confronted with a deadly weapon or an object that appears to be one. Under the law, the use of force against another person is justifiable if the person who acts in self-defense believes that the use of force is: “immediately necessary for the purpose of protecting himself [or herself] against the use of unlawful force by such other person on the present occasion.”
Use of Force in Self-Protection or the Protection of Others
The use of force is justifiable when the actor believes that such force is immediately necessary for the purpose of protecting himself or herself or a third party against the use of unlawful force. Deadly force is only justifiable if an actor believes it is necessary to protect one’s self or a third party against death, serious bodily injury, kidnapping or sexual assault. However, such force is not justified if the actor knows that he or she can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety by retreating; except the actor is not obliged to retreat from his or her dwelling or place of work, unless he or she was the initial aggressor or is assailed in the place of work by another person whose place of work the actor knows it to be.
An actor is presumed to have a reasonable belief that deadly force is immediately necessary to protect himself or herself against death, serious bodily injury, kidnapping or sexual intercourse compelled by force or threat if both of the following conditions exist:
[18 Pa. Cons. Stat, §§ 505, 506 & 507]
Pennsylvania Gun Law Updates
DateDetails
2025-04-08
Added non-lethal weapons to Carry Basics section.
2021-05-19
Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2021-04-13
Added court ruling regarding carry in schools in Location Restrictions section
2021-03-22
Updated info about grace period for LTC renewals due to COVID 19 in Summary section
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