For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with North Carolina's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit 2026
North Carolina concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
North Carolina is a shall-issue state requiring a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) issued by the county sheriff. A Pistol Purchase Permit is also required to purchase handguns. No permitless carry.
Shall-Issue State
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$90
Required for concealed carry
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
8 Hours
Firearms safety course with live fire; NRA Basic Pistol, law enforcement training, military service accepted
Processing
90
typical processing time
Permit Details
North Carolina CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a North Carolina concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
County Sheriff (Concealed Handgun Permit)
— 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
$90.00
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
90
Duty to Inform
Yes — Required — you must immediately notify law enforcement officers that you are carrying when contacted
Training Requirements
North Carolina CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
North Carolina requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Minimum training time: 8 hours. Approved training types: Firearms safety course with live fire; NRA Basic Pistol, law enforcement training, military service accepted.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits North Carolina Honors
North Carolina recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (22 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMSMOMTNEOHOKSCSDTNTXUTVAWVWY
Always verify current reciprocity status directly with County Sheriff (Concealed Handgun Permit) before traveling. Agreements change.
Out-of-State Recognition
States That Honor the North Carolina Permit
Your North Carolina concealed carry permit is recognized in the following states (22 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMSMOMTNEOHOKSCSDTNTXUTVAWVWY
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in North Carolina
Schools, law enforcement facilities, courthouses, correctional facilities, state/federal buildings, financial institutions, premises posted prohibiting carry, places of worship during service, parades, funerals, 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
North Carolina-Specific CCW Information
North Carolina requires both a Pistol Purchase Permit (PPP) for handgun purchases AND a CHP for concealed carry. Duty to inform: must notify law enforcement officer of CHP status when approached. NC does not issue non-resident CHPs.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in North Carolina are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with County Sheriff (Concealed Handgun Permit) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.