What states accept a North Carolina concealed carry permit?

Asked by: Kiarra Hudson  |  Last update: June 30, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (64 votes)

As of mid-2026, a North Carolina Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) is honored in over 35 states, including Alabama, Georgia, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. Many of these states also have permitless carry laws, allowing concealed carry for legal permit holders without needing to recognize the specific NC permit.

What states can I conceal carry with a North Carolina permit?

As of mid-2026, roughly 35–38 states recognize a North Carolina Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), though specific requirements for non-resident permits vary. Key states honoring NC permits include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. Always verify local laws, as some states only recognize resident permits or have specific restrictions.

Can I carry my pistol from NC to VA?

Virginia honors all valid out-of-state concealed carry permits issued to individuals who are at least 21 years old and are carrying a photo ID issued by a government agency.

Can I carry my firearm in my car in NC?

A: Yes, you can keep a gun in your car in North Carolina. However, it must be safely stored. Firearms must either be in plain view or secured in a locked container, such as a glove box or trunk. Concealing a firearm without a permit violates state laws and can lead to criminal charges for illegal firearm possession.

Can I carry my gun in all 50 states?

No, you cannot carry a gun in all 50 states under a single set of rules. While all 50 states allow some form of concealed carry, laws vary dramatically regarding permits, reciprocity, and prohibited areas. Over half of U.S. states allow permitless (constitutional) carry, but strict states like California, New York, and Hawaii do not honor out-of-state permits, requiring residents and visitors to adhere to strict local regulations.

2022 Gun Laws and Concealed Carry Reciprocity in North Carolina

44 related questions found

What does "Mexican carry" mean?

"Mexican carry" refers to the practice of carrying a handgun tucked into the waistband or pocket without a holster. It is generally considered unsafe because the trigger is left exposed, increasing the risk of accidental discharge, and the firearm is less secure, often used for maximum concealment.

What is the most gun-friendly state?

New Hampshire is frequently ranked as the most gun-friendly state in the U.S. due to its "constitutional carry" laws (no permit required to carry), lack of state sales tax, and minimal restrictions on firearm ownership. Other top contenders often cited for having the most permissive laws include Arizona, Idaho, Wyoming, and West Virginia.

Can you ride around with a gun in NC?

You can legally drive with a gun in your car's trunk, regardless of whether you hold a concealed weapon permit. Although the firearm is concealed, it must be locked and inaccessible to anyone inside the vehicle.

Where are you prohibited from carrying in NC?

For example, in North Carolina, concealed handguns may not be carried: In law enforcement or correctional facilities such as a prison. In any space occupied by state or federal employees, including state and federal courthouses. In schools or on school grounds.

Can I carry my gun without a permit in NC?

As of May 2026, you do not need a permit to openly carry a firearm in North Carolina, but you must have a valid Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) to carry a concealed handgun. While legislative efforts (SB 50) have aimed to allow permitless concealed carry, existing law still requires a permit for concealed weapons.

Can I take my gun on a road trip with a permit?

It depends on the laws of each state you're traveling through. You may carry a loaded firearm if the state recognizes your concealed carry permit or allows permitless (constitutional) carry for you.

What race had guns first?

The Chinese were the first to have guns, developing the earliest firearms in the 10th century following their invention of gunpowder.

Can I use my DD214 to get a concealed carry permit in NC?

CONCEALED CARRY WEAPON PERMIT

First time applicants should bring: Certificate of Completion from the required Firearms Course. North Carolina Driver's License. Former military personnel must bring a Certificate of Honorable Discharge or a copy of a DD-214.

What state honors the most CCW permits?

Alabama honors 48 states' permits, while residents can lawfully conceal and carry firearms in 32 other states with an Alabama CCW.

Is Publix allowing open carry in Florida?

As of May 2026, Publix has updated its policy to ask that customers not openly carry firearms in Florida stores, reversing a previous policy that allowed it. While Florida law allows open carry for permitted individuals, Publix now requests that only law enforcement officers openly carry firearms, following a, accidental discharge incident.

What states honor my CCW?

Montana Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

  • Alabama (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Alaska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Arizona (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • California (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Can I open carry in Walmart in NC?

No, you cannot legally open carry in a Walmart in North Carolina. While North Carolina is an open-carry state, Walmart policy prohibits the open carry of firearms in all its U.S. stores.

What states do not accept a North Carolina concealed carry permit?

Here is a list of states that do NOT honor North Carolina Permits:

  • California.
  • Connecticut.
  • Hawaii.
  • Illinois.
  • Maryland.
  • Massachusetts.
  • Minnesota.
  • New Jersey.

Can I open carry in NC in my car?

In North Carolina, you can legally open carry a handgun in a vehicle without a permit, provided it is fully visible and not concealed. The firearm cannot be hidden under seats, in the center console, or in the glove box unless you possess a valid Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).

Can I pocket carry in NC?

Yes, you can legally carry a handgun in your pocket, provided you have a valid concealed handgun permit.

Can you conceal carry in movie theaters in NC?

In North Carolina, you can legally conceal carry in a movie theater with a valid permit, provided the establishment does not display a "no-gun" sign. While NC law generally prohibits weapons at ticketed, paid-admission events, an update allows permit holders to carry in theaters unless the management prohibits it by posting signs.

Can you open carry in Walmart?

Open Carry of Firearms

Motivated by our desire to create a safe environment in our stores and clubs, we request that customers no longer openly carry firearms into Walmart or Sam's Club locations in states where open carry is permitted – unless they are authorized law enforcement.

Can I carry my gun from SC to NC?

If you keep your state of record (Not a resident of NC) and have a permit/license issued by any other state you can carry in NC with it as NC now honors all other states permit/licenses.

Can I own a handgun in NC without a permit?

No, you do not need a pistol purchase permit to buy a handgun in North Carolina as of March 29, 2023. The state repealed the law requiring a permit from the sheriff's office; however, a background check is still required at the time of purchase, and you must follow all federal laws.

Can you carry a gun in North Carolina state parks?

Guns and Fireworks

are prohibited, except: Individuals with a proper permit may possess a concealed handgun in permitted areas and under the requirements of N.C.G.S. § 14-415.11; and. other individuals as permitted by statute or rule.