For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Connecticut's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Connecticut concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Connecticut is a shall-issue state requiring a Pistol Permit to carry a handgun concealed or openly. A temporary permit is issued by the local police chief, then a state permit is issued by DESPP. No permitless carry.
Shall-Issue State
Non-Resident Permits Available
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$70
Required for concealed carry
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
8 Hours
NRA-approved pistol safety course or equivalent; live fire component required
Processing
60
typical processing time
Permit Details
Connecticut CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Connecticut concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
— Official Site
Permitless Carry
Permit Required — a permit is required to carry concealed
Issue Standard
Shall Issue — the issuing authority must issue a permit to any qualified applicant who meets the requirements
Open Carry
Allowed
— permit required for open carry
Resident Fee
$70.00
Non-Resident Fee
$70.00
Permit Valid
5 years from issuance date — renewal required
Minimum Age
21 years old (resident permit)
Background Check
Required — FBI NICS background check required for permit application
Processing Time
60
Duty to Inform
No Requirement — no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Connecticut CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Connecticut requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Minimum training time: 8 hours. Approved training types: NRA-approved pistol safety course or equivalent; live fire component required.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Connecticut Honors
Connecticut recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (21 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMOMTNENMNCNDOKSDTNTXUTWVWY
Always verify current reciprocity status directly with Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection before traveling. Agreements change.
Out-of-State Recognition
States That Honor the Connecticut Permit
Your Connecticut concealed carry permit is recognized in the following states (21 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMOMTNENMNCNDOKSDTNTXUTWVWY
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Connecticut
Schools, courthouses, police stations, licensed liquor establishments, any place of public accommodation that prohibits weapons, government buildings, correctional institutions
Note: Federal law also prohibits carry in federal facilities, federal courthouses, and other locations regardless of state law. Always check both state and federal restrictions.
Important Notes
Connecticut-Specific CCW Information
Connecticut's two-step permitting process: apply to local police chief for a 60-day permit, then to DESPP for the permanent 5-year permit. Both open and concealed carry require the permit. Non-resident permits are available at the same $70 fee.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Connecticut are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.