Arkansas Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW): Gun Laws, Application, Requirements & Online Training
In the state of Arkansas, concealed carry laws have long been a topic of interest for residents and visitors alike. The Department of Public Security (DPS) is responsible for issuing concealed carry permits, and the state follows a shall-issue policy, making it accessible to law-abiding citizens. This article delves into the intricacies of Arkansas gun laws, the requirements for obtaining a concealed carry permit, CCW reciprocity agreements, and where firearms can and cannot be carried within the state.
Arkansas Gun Laws
Permit-less Concealed Carry
Arkansas allows permitless concealed carry for individuals aged 18 or older, eliminating the need for a license in this specific case. However, residents have the option to obtain a concealed carry permit if they wish to do so.
Obtaining a Concealed Carry Permit
For those who desire a concealed carry permit, Arkansas has certain requirements. Applicants must be legal residents and citizens of the United States, aged 21 or older. Non-residents, active-duty military members aged 18-20, and individuals with legal partners in the military may also apply.
Enhanced Concealed Carry Permit (E-CHCL)
The Enhanced concealed carry permit is a special permit that grants holders the ability to carry firearms in restricted places. However, this permit is not issued to non-residents of Arkansas.
Non-Resident Permit Restrictions
Non-residents seeking a CCW permit in Arkansas must have a permit from a state with a reciprocity agreement. They must also abide by the laws of the state where they are carrying their firearm.
Arkansas CCW Reciprocity
CCW reciprocity agreements play a crucial role in allowing concealed carry across state borders. Arkansas has reciprocity agreements with 37 states, meaning it honors permits from those states, and 57 states honor Arkansas CCW permits.
Concealed Carry Reciprocity with Other States
States that have concealed carry reciprocity with Arkansas allow Arkansas residents to carry their weapons in those states without requiring an additional permit.
Reciprocity of Other States with Arkansas
These states respect Arkansas concealed carry permits within their territory, allowing Arkansas residents to carry their weapons.
Restricted Reciprocity
States that have restricted reciprocity will only honor CCW permits issued by Arkansas to its residents.
States without a Permit
States without a permit requirement allow any law-abiding citizen from Arkansas, who is of legal age, to carry a concealed weapon within their borders.
It’s essential to understand the laws of each reciprocity state and adhere to them when carrying a firearm.
How to Get a Gun License in Arkansas
- Enroll For Training First, you must enroll for a firearm safety training program from a state-certified instructor or submit proof you completed a hunter education course within 5 years. Classes cover areas like legal issues, nonviolent responses, and basic firearm handling.
- Submit Application Complete the Firearms License to Carry a Concealed Handgun application and submit it to the Arkansas State Police along with a $137 license fee valid for 5 years.
- Get Fingerprinted and Pass Background Check All applicants must get fingerprinted and pass a state and federal criminal background check which can take up to 120 days to process.
- Meet Other Requirements You must meet other requirements including being a resident of Arkansas for at least 90 days and being at least 21 years old. You also must disclose information about mental health issues and criminal records.
- Receive License Once approved, you will receive your concealed carry license valid for 5 years allowing you to legally conceal carry firearms with required restrictions.
So by getting certified training, submitting proper documentation, passing checks, and meeting eligibility criteria, you can obtain an Arkansas concealed carry weapon license giving gun rights. The Arkansas State Police handles processing applications.
Requirements for an Arkansas CCW Permit
To obtain a concealed carry permit in Arkansas, applicants must meet specific requirements set by the state. Some of the key requirements include:
- Legal residency and citizenship of the United States.
- Being 21 years old or older, or 18-20 years old if an active member of the armed forces.
- Residing in the state for at least 90 days, being an active military member, or having a legal partner in the military.
- No history of mental or physical conditions that would impede gun handling.
- No felony convictions without pardons or expungements.
- Not restricted from possessing firearms or other weapons according to state law.
- No history of drug or alcohol abuse affecting mental abilities.
- Familiarity with Arkansas concealed carry laws.
- Not declared mentally incapable of handling a weapon.
- No past association with a mental institution, voluntarily or involuntarily.
- No fugitive status or active arrest warrants.
- Completion of CCW training from a recognized concealed carry class in Arkansas.
- No convictions for crimes related to CCW use in the past 5 years.
- Meeting all federal CCW requirements.
Location Restrictions for Arkansas Concealed Carry
Arkansas has specific location restrictions for concealed carry based on the type of permit held.
Concealed Handgun Carry License Holders
Concealed handgun carry license holders can carry firearms in most places except for certain restricted areas, such as schools, state highway buildings, prisons, courtrooms, and government buildings.
Enhanced Concealed Handgun Carry License Holders
Enhanced concealed handgun carry license holders have additional restrictions, including carrying restrictions in places like universities, government offices, and alcohol-producing companies.
Where You Can Carry Guns in Arkansas
Concealed carry is generally allowed in various public places, parks, forests, and vehicles provided the permit holder abides by the state laws and regulations.
Where You Can’t Carry Guns in Arkansas
Certain locations strictly prohibit concealed carry, including school premises, state highway buildings, prisons, courtrooms, legislative gathering venues, sporting events not related to firearms, airport terminals (unless transporting legally), and places where federal law prohibits CCW.
As a responsible CCW permit holder, it is vital to respect these restrictions at all times.
Training Requirements for Concealed Carry in Arkansas
Concealed carry training is essential for responsible gun ownership. It is crucial to choose a reputable instructor and ensure the training meets state requirements.
Importance of Prior Preparation
Prior preparation is key to getting the most out of your concealed carry training. Understanding the state’s educational requirements and finding a quality instructor are vital steps.
Finding a Quality Instructor
A quality instructor will provide outstanding training opportunities. Look for instructors who include live-fire training from the holster and check for reviews from previous students.
Course Particulars for In-Person Training
In-person training should cover all necessary topics and be conducted in a comfortable location with adequate equipment and provisions.
Arkansas Concealed Carry Class Online
When opting for an online concealed carry class in Arkansas, ensure it meets the state’s educational requirements to avoid legal complications.
Conclusion
Arkansas’s concealed carry laws are designed to provide responsible individuals with the means to protect themselves and others. By meeting the requirements and abiding by location restrictions, lawful gun owners can enjoy the privileges granted by their concealed carry permits. It is essential to receive proper training from reputable instructors to ensure responsible firearm use.
FAQs About (Arkansas Concealed Carry Weapon)
What is the cost of the CWC permit in Arkansas?
The cost varies based on age, with fees for online and paper applications. For individuals aged 21-64, the online application fee is $91.1, while the paper application fee is $88.25. For those aged 64 and above, the online application fee is $66.15, and the paper application fee is $63.25. Additional costs may be incurred for fingerprints.
How long does an Arkansas permit last?
An Arkansas concealed carry permit is valid for five years, after which the renewal process must be undertaken. The renewal process requires fees, background checks, and applications. A late renewal fee of $15 applies for renewals within six months. Failing to renew for more than six months necessitates a new concealed carry application.
Can non-residents obtain a CCW permit in Arkansas?
Non-residents can obtain an Arkansas CCW permit if they have a permit from a state with a reciprocity agreement. However, they must adhere to the laws of the state they are carrying in.
What are the location restrictions for Arkansas concealed carry?
Location restrictions vary based on the type of permit held. Concealed handgun carry license holders have restrictions in places like schools, state highway buildings, prisons, and government buildings. Enhanced concealed handgun carry license holders have additional restrictions, including certain areas within universities and government offices.
What are the training requirements for concealed carry in Arkansas?
Concealed carry applicants must complete training from a recognized concealed carry class in Arkansas. The training should cover essential topics and include live-fire training from the holster. Online classes must meet the state’s educational requirements to be valid.
Can you carry a concealed weapon in Arkansas?
- The Arkansas State Police issues concealed handgun carry licenses to qualified Arkansas residents aged 21 or older.
- To apply for a concealed carry permit, you must complete a training course conducted by a state-approved instructor, pay the fee, and submit a properly completed application to the Arkansas State Police.
- The concealed handgun carry license is valid for 5 years. The fee for the initial license is $137 and the renewal fee is $52.
- Arkansas is a “shall issue” state, meaning the state police must issue a concealed carry license if the applicant meets all the listed qualifications – they may not deny licenses at will.
- In addition to resident permits, Arkansas has recognition agreements to honor valid concealed carry permits issued by certain other states.
- Arkansas concealed carry license holders can carry a handgun concealed on their person or in a vehicle in most locations, with some exceptions where firearms are prohibited.
