For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Pennsylvania's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
Pennsylvania Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Pennsylvania concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Pennsylvania is a shall-issue state. A License to Carry Firearms (LTCF) is issued by the county sheriff. Notably, no training is required. Open carry is legal without a permit (except in Philadelphia). Fee is among the lowest in the country at $20.
Shall-Issue State
Non-Resident Permits Available
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$20
Required for concealed carry
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
Not Required
Training not mandated but recommended
Processing
45
typical processing time
Permit Details
Pennsylvania CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Pennsylvania concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
County Sheriff (License to Carry Firearms)
- 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
$20.00
Non-Resident Fee
$26.00
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
45
Duty to Inform
No Requirement - no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Pennsylvania CCW Training Requirements
No Mandatory Training
Pennsylvania does not require firearms training to obtain a concealed carry permit. However, voluntary training is strongly recommended for all carriers to improve safety and legal knowledge.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Pennsylvania Honors
Pennsylvania recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (31 states):
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Pennsylvania
Court facilities, schools and school grounds, any place prohibited by federal law, any property where owner has prohibited firearms
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
Pennsylvania-Specific CCW Information
Pennsylvania requires no firearms training for LTCF — one of the few states with no training mandate. Philadelphia requires a permit for open carry. Processing time varies widely by county — some counties process immediately, others take up to 45 days by law.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Pennsylvania are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with County Sheriff (License to Carry Firearms) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.