For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Louisiana's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
Permitless (Constitutional) Carry State
Louisiana allows eligible residents to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. A voluntary permit is still available and provides reciprocity benefits in other states. Effective July 4, 2024 (HB 1). Applies to Louisiana residents 18+ legally eligible to possess a firearm.
CCW Permit Guide
Louisiana Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Louisiana concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Louisiana enacted permitless carry in 2024 (HB 1). Eligible residents 18+ may carry a handgun without a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). A voluntary CHP is still available for reciprocity benefits.
Permitless Carry
Shall-Issue State
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$125
Optional permit
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
8 Hours
8 hours training including live fire for voluntary CHP
Processing
90
typical processing time
Permit Details
Louisiana CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Louisiana concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Louisiana State Police (Concealed Handgun Permit)
— Official Site
Permitless Carry
Constitutional Carry — eligible residents may carry without a permit
Effective July 4, 2024 (HB 1). Applies to Louisiana residents 18+ legally eligible to possess a firearm.
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
$125.00
Permit Valid
5 years from issuance date — renewal required
Minimum Age
18 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
Louisiana CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Louisiana requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Minimum training time: 8 hours. Approved training types: 8 hours training including live fire for voluntary CHP.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Louisiana Honors
Louisiana recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (34 states):
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Louisiana
Schools and school grounds, law enforcement facilities, courthouses, correctional facilities, polling places, places of worship during services (unless authorized), establishments primarily serving alcohol, parades, demonstrations
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
Louisiana-Specific CCW Information
Louisiana enacted permitless carry effective July 4, 2024, with a minimum age of 18 — lower than most states at 21. Louisiana does not issue non-resident CHPs. The voluntary CHP fee of $125 is among the higher state fees.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Louisiana are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Louisiana State Police (Concealed Handgun Permit) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.