Wisconsin is a shall-issue state. Wisconsin gun laws operate at the state level with concealed carry weapons (CCW) licenses issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual.
Open carry is legal for any person that is 18 years or older and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state and federal laws.
Concealed carry is legal for residents with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License (CWL) and for non-residents with a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors. CWLs are only issued to residents and military personnel stationed in Wisconsin. Applicants must be 21 or older, have completed a firearms training course and meet other criteria. In terms of reciprocity, Wisconsin will honor permits from states they have reciprocity agreements with, as well as states that require a background check comparable to the check conducted under Wisconsin law.
Where can I carry with my Wisconsin permit?
Yes
Yes, Constitutional Carry
Yes, Other Restrictions
No
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Important Firearm Laws
non-resident permitting?
Yes, but only issued to military personnel stationed in Wisconsin.
duty to inform officer you're carrying?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm unless the officer asks.
brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Wisconsin law. However, anyone who endangers another's safety by the negligent operation or handling of a dangerous weapon, or intentionally points a firearm at or toward another shall be charged.
Whoever, in a public or private place, engages in violent, abusive, indecent, profane, boisterous, unreasonably loud or otherwise disorderly conduct under circumstances in which the conduct tends to cause or provoke a disturbance shall be charged.
preemption?
Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Wisconsin, except cities may:
driver's license linked to carry license?
No. Your Wisconsin driver’s license is not linked to your Wisconsin concealed weapons license. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry license holder immediately when they run your driver’s license. However, LEOs may have access to other databases where they can obtain this information.
red flag law?
Wisconsin does not have a red flag law.
public access to concealed carry registry?
No. Wisconsin concealed carry data is not public record.
"no weapons allowed" signs enforced?
Yes. Whoever enters or remains in any of the following areas once notified not to enter or remain while carrying a firearm is subject to a Class B forfeiture:
These restrictions do not apply to firearms that are in vehicles driven or parked in parking facilities on these properties.
carry while using alcohol or controlled substances?
Not while consuming or under the influence or while the person has a detectable amount of a restricted controlled substance in his or her blood. Under the influence of an intoxicant means that the actor's ability to operate a vehicle or handle a firearm or airgun is materially impaired because of his or her consumption of an alcohol beverage, hazardous inhalant, a controlled substance, controlled substance analog, or any combination of those things.
[Wis. Stat. §§ 941.20, 941.237 and 939.22(42)]
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
weapons other than handguns allowed?
Yes. “Weapon" means a handgun, an electric weapon, or a billy club.
“Electric weapon" means any device which is designed, redesigned, used or intended to be used, offensively or defensively, to immobilize or incapacitate persons by the use of electric current.
A handgun does not include a machine gun, a short barreled rifle or a short barreled shotgun. Wis. Stat. 175.60(1)(bm).
Long guns (rifles, shotguns) may not be carried concealed.
constitutional carry?
No. Wisconsin is not a constitutional carry state.
ammunition restrictions?
Yes. Wisconsin prohibits the possession or use of an armor-piercing bullet during the commission of a crime.
open carry permitted?
Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm can open carry. However a concealed carry license is required to conceal a loaded handgun within reach in a vehicle.
gun permit licensure?
Wisconsin grants concealed carry licenses on a shall-issue basis.
minimum age for concealed carry?
You must be at least 21 to carry in Wisconsin.
magazine limits for handguns?
No. Wisconsin does not limit the maximum size of handgun magazines.
non-lethal weapons?
STUN GUNS AND TASERS - A concealed carry license is required to carry a stun gun or Taser, except in an individual’s dwelling, place of business or on land that he or she owns, leases, or legally occupies. The minimum age for possession is 18 years old. Transporting a stun gun is allowed without a license if the stun gun is enclosed within a carrying case. It is illegal to carry or use a stun gun on school premises.
[Wis. Stat. § 941.295][Wis. Stat. § 948.61]
PEPPER SPRAY - Legal for self-defense purposes. Wisconsin imposes no restricitions on size or concentration.
TEAR GAS - Legal for self-defense but subject to general misuse laws.
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 Wisconsin. Batons are not classified as "dangerous 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 Wisconsin law. Brass knuckles are classified as "dangerous 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 Wisconsin law.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
wisconsin license exempts from background check?
No.
minimum age to possess and transport?
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Wisconsin.
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. Wisconsin law does not require a waiting period for handgun sales.
handgun registration?
No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Wisconsin.
possess a handgun on my private property without a license?
Yes. Anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a license in his or her own dwelling, place of business or on land that he or she owns, leases, or legally occupies.
purchase permits?
No. A special permit is not required when purchasing a handgun in Wisconsin.
Top Gun Laws & Concealed Carry Permit Information For Wisconsin Residents
Concealed Carry Basics Faq
wear a covid mask & carry?
One statute was identified Wisconsin, which refers to individuals concealing their identity with the intention to commit illegal acts or to specifically hide their identity. It does not address wearing a mask while legally carrying a concealed firearm. In addition, Deputy City Attorney Marci Paulson stated she doesn’t know of any statutory or regulatory prohibition that would affect a concealed carry license while complying with the order to wear a mask.
carry while gun hunting?
Yes, with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License or a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors, except when shining. In addition, a person who owns, leases or is the legal occupant of land and who is at least age 18, will be allowed to possess a concealed handgun while hunting on those lands without the need for a license to carry a concealed weapon. To use the concealed handgun for hunting purposes, the handgun must be a legal size and caliber for the species being hunted.
what are the knife laws in wisconsin?
Knives are not listed as dangerous weapons in Wisconsin, so knives may be carried openly or concealed. Anyone who is prohibited from possessing a firearm is prohibited from carrying a concealed knife. Knives are prohibited at K -12 schools, which includes buildings and grounds, athletic fields, recreation areas and any other property used or operated for school administration. Local governments may also restrict the possession of knives at government facilities.
[Wis. Stat. §§ 939.22(10), 941.231 and 948.61]
carry while bow hunting?
Yes. Individuals with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License or a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors, or qualified former law enforcement officer may possess the type of firearm they qualified with and which is indicated on their certification card, may concealed carry in a wildlife refuge, a Wisconsin state park or state fish hatchery. However this does not allow such persons to hunt or discharge their firearm in the refuge, state park or state fish hatchery, nor does it allow bringing the firearm inside state owned buildings on these properties which are posted with signs that provide notice that firearms are not allowed in the building. In addition, a person who owns, leases or is the legal occupant of land and who is at least age 18, will be allowed to possess a concealed handgun while hunting on those lands without the need for a license to carry a concealed weapon.
hunter harassment law?
Yes. No person may interfere or attempt to interfere with lawful hunting, fishing, or trapping with the intent to prevent the taking of a wild animal, or intentionally interfere with or intentionally attempt to interfere with an activity associated with lawful hunting, fishing, or trapping.
Residency Changes:
Moving to Wisconsin and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?Wisconsin issues license to residents and military personnel stationed in Wisconsin only. You can apply for your license to the sheriff of your county once you have a current and valid Wisconsin driver’s license or identification card.
Moving from Wisconsin and have a Wisconsin resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Wisconsin license remains valid?If a person with a Wisconsin concealed weapons license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.
Lost/Stolen Licenses:
If your license was damaged and are requesting a new card with your existing License Number you must complete the Replacement License Request Form and submit your request through the mail and return your damaged card.
You may use the online system to request to have your lost or stolen CCW license replaced. A new License number will be assigned. The cost for a replacement license is $12 and will require a new background check.
Name/Address Changes:
To apply for a replacement license due to a name and/or address change, you can use the online system to Request a Replacement License and pay the fee. There is no charge for address changes if no new card is requested.
Application:
Valid For:
5 years
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:
Only issued to military personnel stationed in Wisconsin. The process is the same as for residents.
Processing Time:
21 days
Fees:
Initial License $40
Renewals $22
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 Wisconsin.
Step 1:
Complete a firearm training course if required.
Step 2:
For mail applications, download the application from the website or complete the online application.
Step 3:
The following documents are required:
Pay the fee.
Step 4:
Submit the form online or mail the application to the Wisconsin Department of Justice along with $40 payment.
Wisconsin Department of Justice, Attn: Firearms Unit, P.O. Box 7130, Madison, WI, 53707-7130
Step 5:
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.
carry/possess at a hotel?
Any business may prohibit individuals from entering the premises with a firearm, if the property is posted or verbal notice is given, though weapons can be stored in vehicles in parking areas. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. Handguns are prohibited from hotel taverns for anyone without a concealed carry license, provided the licensee does not consume alcohol. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
[Wis. Stat. §§ 943.13 (1m)(c), 943.237(2), (3)(cx) and (3)(i)]
carry at roadside rest areas?
Yes, with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License or a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors.
store in a vehicle in an employee parking lot?
An employer may not prohibit a licensee, as a condition of employment, from carrying or storing a concealed weapon, a particular type of concealed weapon, or ammunition in the licensee’s own motor vehicle, regardless of whether the motor vehicle is used in the course of employment or whether the motor vehicle is driven or parked on property used by the employer.
carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and wildlife management areas (wmas)?
Yes, with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License or a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors.
carry in vehicle?
Yes, with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License or a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors, but not in or on the grounds of a school. The Wisconsin Supreme Court on 4/10/18 ruled that a person must have a license that is valid in Wisconsin to carry a concealed loaded handgun within reach in a vehicle.
Without a license, a loaded handgun must not be concealed in any manner, including on a car seat. Based on the Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruling in State v. Walls (1994), in order to be considered openly carried in a vehicle, the handgun must be discernible from the ordinary observation of a person located outside and within the immediate vicinity of the vehicle. Some interpret this to mean above the window line of the vehicle.
carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, with a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License or a license/permit from a state that Wisconsin honors, unless posted and provided you consume no alcohol.
tribal land
Forrest County Potawatomi Community - NO
Ho-Chunk Nation - NO
Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians - Unable to find any statutes pertaining to concealed carry. Please call tribal authorities before carrying a firearm.
Oneida Tribe - NO
Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewas - No statute found. Please call tribal authorities before carrying a firearm.
Stockbridge Munsee Community - NO
Menominee Indian Tribe - If you possess a valid Wisconsin permit or have a permit from a reciprocal state, you can apply for a carry permit with the tribe.
Self-Defense and Defense of Others
A person is privileged to threaten or intentionally use force against another only if the actor reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent or terminate the interference. The actor may not intentionally use deadly force unless the actor reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to himself or herself.
A person is privileged to defend a third person from real or apparent unlawful interference under the same conditions and by the same means as those under and by which the person is privileged to defend himself or herself from real or apparent unlawful interference, provided that the person reasonably believes that the facts are such that the third person would be privileged to act in self-defense and that the person’s intervention is necessary for the protection of the third person.
If an actor intentionally used deadly force, the court may not consider whether the actor had an opportunity to flee or retreat before he or she used force and shall presume that the actor reasonably believed that the force was necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to himself or herself if either of the following applies:
“Dwelling” means any premises or portion of a premises that is used as a home or a place of residence and that part of the lot or site on which the dwelling is situated that is devoted to residential use. “Dwelling” includes other existing structures on the immediate residential premises such as driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, terraces, patios, fences, porches, garages and basements.
“Place of business” means a business that the actor owns or operates.
Defense of Property and Protection Against Retail Theft
A person is privileged to threaten or intentionally use force for the purpose of preventing or terminating what the person reasonably believes to be an unlawful interference with the person’s property. Only such degree of force or threat thereof may intentionally be used as the actor reasonably believes is necessary to prevent or terminate the interference. It is not reasonable to intentionally use deadly force for the sole purpose of defense of one’s property.
A person is privileged to defend a third person’s property from real or apparent unlawful interference under the same conditions and by the same means as those under and by which the person is privileged to defend his or her own property, provided that the person reasonably believes that the facts are such as would give the third person the privilege to defend his or her own property and that the third person whose property the person is protecting is a member of his or her immediate family or household or a person whose property the person has a legal duty to protect, or is a merchant and the actor is the merchant’s employee or agent. An official or adult employee or agent of a library is privileged to defend the property of the library in the manner specified in this subsection.
[Wis. Stat. §§ 939.48 & 939.49]
Self-Defense
Wisconsin is a Castle Doctrine state. There is no duty to retreat, and the law applies at a person’s residence, vehicle or business.
Wisconsin Gun Law Updates
DateDetails
2025-04-09
Added non-lethal weapons to Carry Basics section.
2024-12-27
Added tribal land information to carry location section
2021-05-19
Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2021-03-03
Removed reference to Florida non-resident permits issued after 2013 on the reciprocity map
2020-09-03
Added information on Self Defense in the Summary
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