Connecticut Gun Laws

Connecticut is considered a “May Issue” state. However, Connecticut tends to operate more like a “Shall Issue” state due to multiple court decisions. There is a 2 step process to get a permit. First, an applicant must apply for a temporary permit from the local authorities and then another application is made at the state level. This results in you paying for two permits, $140 in total. Connecticut gun laws are also strict on training and they will only accept the NRA’s basic pistol course.

Connecticut CCW Reciprocity List

States Honoring CCW

Alabama
Alaska*

Arizona*
Arkansas
Georgia

Idaho
Indiana
Iowa*

Kansas*
Kentucky*
Michigan*

Mississippi
Missouri*
Montana

Nebraska
North Carolina
Ohio

Oklahoma*
South Dakota
Tennessee*

Texas*
Utah*
Vermont

Virginia
West Virginia*
Wisconsin

*Restricted Reciprocity with Connecticut

States NOT Honoring CCW

California
Colorado

Delaware
Florida
Georgia

Hawaii
Illinois
Louisiana

Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts

Minnesota
Nevada
New Hampshire

New Jersey
New Mexico
New York

North Dakota
Oregon
Rhode Island

South Carolina
Washington
Washington D.C

Wyoming

Honors These States CCW Permits

Connecticut does not honor any other states concealed carry weapons permit.

How Reciprocity Works In Connecticut

Connecticut is one of the few states where CCW from another state doesn’t carry over. Reciprocity agreements are limited.

Reciprocity Agreements In Connecticut

Connecticut: Where Is CCW Allowed?

Places Allowed

Roadside rest areas
Vehicle

Places Not Allowed

Public or private elementary or secondary school property

In any place of business in which one is merely an employee, not an owner or operator
A permit is also required to transport a handgun back and forth between one’s home and place of business, or to and from a range for target shooting
Any building in which the chamber of either house of the General Assembly is located or in which the official office of any member, officer or employee of the General Assembly is located or any building in which a committee of the General Assembly is holding a public hearing

Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by Federal Law

Connecticut: Conceal Carry Laws

Open Carry

Yes, you cannot open carry without a permit/license. However, if you have a permit/license then open carry is legal but not common. Counties and Cities can set their own laws/regulations on where you can open carry.

Carry In Vehicle

Yes, HOWEVER – You are legally required to have a permit/license to carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle. If you don’t have the appropriate permits, then you must carry your firearm unloaded in a carrying case where the ammo is separated from the firearm.

You must also lock your handgun into a secure location (either a locked glove box, safe, or trunk) if you leave your handgun unattended in a vehicle. Basically, it cannot be out in plain sight.

Carry In State Parks

Yes/No, there’s specific language within the Connecticut code prohibiting the carrying of any firearm (long barrel or handgun) in state parks UNLESS you’re hunting during the appropriate season and have the appropriate permits.

From our research, Connecticut appears to be strict on this. There is mention of being allowed to carry firearms on federal land within the Appalachian trail so long as you have the Connecticut pistol permit.

Carry In Restaurants

Yes, you can carry in a restaurant that serves alcohol, provided you have the right permits, however, if there’s any signage which prohibits firearms then you are not allowed to carry.

Constitutional Carry

No, Connecticut does not recognize constitutional carry.

No Weapon Signs Enforced

Yes, Connecticut gun laws give the force of law to “No Weapons” signs. There are legal penalties for entering a private property or business that has posted these signs.

Must Notify Officer

No, we did not find any information related to the duty to inform within the Connecticut code. This means you are not required to tell an officer you’re carrying a firearm upon an interaction with them. However, if a law enforcement officer specifically asks you if you’re carrying a firearm and to produce your concealed carry permit, you’re required to give a valid permit and photo ID matching the permit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Connecticut’s concealed carry laws require individuals to obtain a pistol permit to legally carry a concealed firearm. While the state is not a constitutional carry jurisdiction, it does allow for open carry with a valid permit. However, there are specific regulations governing where firearms can be carried, including restrictions in certain locations such as state parks and buildings with posted “No Weapons” signs. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is essential for responsible firearm ownership in Connecticut. If you’re considering carrying a concealed weapon in the state, ensure you have the necessary permits and knowledge of the laws to stay within the legal boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Connecticut a Constitutional Carry state?

No, Connecticut does not recognize constitutional carry. A valid pistol permit is required to carry a concealed firearm.

Can I open carry in Connecticut?

Yes, open carry is permitted in Connecticut with a valid pistol permit. However, it’s not very common, and local laws and regulations may vary.

Can I carry a firearm in my vehicle?

Yes, you can carry a firearm in your vehicle in Connecticut if you have a valid pistol permit. It must be kept either unloaded in a carrying container with ammunition separated or locked in a secure compartment.