For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Delaware's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
Delaware Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Delaware concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Delaware is a shall-issue state following the Bruen decision. A Concealed Deadly Weapons License (CDWL) is required to carry a handgun concealed. Open carry is legal without a permit. Delaware has limited reciprocity.
Shall-Issue State
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$65
Required for concealed carry
Validity
3yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
Required
Firearms safety course with live fire component required
Processing
90
typical processing time
Permit Details
Delaware CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Delaware concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Delaware State Police (Concealed Deadly Weapons License)
— 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
— no permit required for open carry
Resident Fee
$65.00
Permit Valid
3 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
90
Duty to Inform
No Requirement — no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Delaware CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Delaware requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Approved training types: Firearms safety course with live fire component required.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Delaware Honors
Delaware recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (19 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMOMTNENCNDOKSDTNTXUTWVWY
Always verify current reciprocity status directly with Delaware State Police (Concealed Deadly Weapons License) before traveling. Agreements change.
Out-of-State Recognition
States That Honor the Delaware Permit
Your Delaware concealed carry permit is recognized in the following states (19 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMOMTNENCNDOKSDTNTXUTWVWY
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Delaware
Schools and school zones, courthouses, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, any place where prohibited by federal or state law
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
Delaware-Specific CCW Information
Delaware does not issue non-resident CDWLs. License valid for 3 years. Delaware was effectively may-issue prior to the Bruen decision in 2022. Processing time can vary significantly. Delaware's small population means relatively few permits issued annually.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Delaware are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Delaware State Police (Concealed Deadly Weapons License) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.