Delaware Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW)

Delaware operates on a may-issue stance for its concealed carry permits, which means that if you meet all the qualifications and requirements, the state may decide to approve your application. However, this decision is at the discretion of the attorney general’s office. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of Delaware’s concealed carry permit system, its gun laws, reciprocity, location restrictions, and more. So buckle up, and let’s dive into the details!

Delaware Gun Laws

To conceal carry in Delaware, you need a Concealed Deadly Weapon License (CDWL), which serves as the Delaware CCW Permit. Delaware issues CCW permits to both residents and non-residents, but non-residents’ permits are temporary and based on specific criteria.

When applying for a CCW permit, you are required to make a public declaration about your application, which should be published by a local newspaper agency ten days before the application. The Attorney General’s office will then review your application in detail and make a decision on its approval.

For non-resident CCW permits, the Attorney General has the discretion to grant temporary licenses for a limited time, based on employment and self-protection needs in Delaware.

Delaware Gun Reciprocity

Delaware has reciprocity agreements with other states regarding CCW permits. The state will only honor CCW permits from states that also honor Delaware’s permits. There are different levels of reciprocity:

1. States that Delaware honors their permits: These states have similar protection levels and permit requirements, and there are twenty-one of them.
2. States that accept Delaware CCW permits: These states have explicit reciprocity deals with Delaware, and there are three of them.
3. States that accept a restricted Delaware CCW permit: These states only accept Delaware CCW permits for residents and exclude temporary non-resident permits. There are twelve of them.
4. States that do not require a permit to conceal carry: In these states, as long as you meet the minimum age requirements, you can conceal carry without a permit.

Regardless of a state’s reciprocity deal with Delaware, you must adhere to that state’s gun laws when carrying a concealed firearm.

Delaware CCW Location Restriction

Delaware gun laws prohibit carrying firearms in certain locations, and violating these restrictions can result in legal charges. The following places are off-limits for concealed carry:

1. Properties and buildings with a post prohibiting firearms.
2. Venues used for professional sporting events.
3. Schools, including rented or leased buildings for school activities.
4. School buses and vehicles owned by schools.
5. Buildings and properties used by counties, municipalities, or the state for sporting events or recreation.
6. Prison buildings or facilities for criminals.
7. Other places where federal laws prohibit firearm use.

However, you can carry a concealed firearm in places such as bars, and restaurants without firearm restrictions, your vehicle with a Delaware CCW permit, roadsides, parks, forests, and places of worship without restrictions.

Conceal Carry For Law Enforcement Officers In Delaware

Active and retired law enforcement officers can carry concealed firearms in accordance with federal laws. Qualified officers, regardless of their status, do not require a CCW permit and can carry it anywhere in the United States. Delaware allows only qualified officers who possess the required identification and have undergone firearm training within the past year to carry concealed.

Buying And Selling Of Firearms In Delaware

There are specific laws governing the purchase and transfer of firearms in Delaware. Before buying a firearm, you must obtain a purchase permit, and this requirement also applies to those with a CCW permit. Transferring a firearm to certain individuals does not require a permit. There is no firearm registration in Delaware.

Delaware Age Requirement To Deal With Gun

The legal age to purchase and transport a firearm in Delaware is eighteen years old. Juveniles are prohibited from possessing firearms unless under direct or indirect supervision while engaging in legal activities such as hunting, training, or sports. Selling or transferring a firearm to an underage individual, even if they are above eighteen, is illegal, except in specific circumstances.

Delaware CCW Permit Requirement

To qualify for a Delaware concealed carry permit, you must meet several requirements:

1. Be at least eighteen years old.
2. Complete a licensed firearm training, which can include a Delaware concealed carry class online.
3. Provide five references from your county of residence, attesting to your good character and the need for self-protection.
4. Swear an oath and provide a notarized affirmation letter, confirming the validity of your certificates and references.
5. Have no felony convictions or convictions for violent crimes in Delaware or any other state.
6. If under twenty-five, have no history of being a delinquent juvenile.
7. Not be a user or dealer of narcotics or have a history of illegal drug use.
8. Not have a restraining order due to physical abuse or firearm use.
9. Have no history of being admitted to a mental health institution.
10. Meet all federal law requirements for a CCW permit.

How To Apply For Delaware CCW Permit

The application process for a Delaware concealed carry permit involves the following steps:

1. Download the application form and complete it.
2. Publish a CCW permit application in a local newspaper agency ten days before filing your application.
3. Provide your fingerprint at the State Bureau of Identification (SBI) within forty-five days of applying.
4. Complete reference questionnaires from five non-related individuals who have known you for at least a year.
5. Mail your notarized application to the local prothonotary office in your county.
6. Include other necessary documents, fingerprints, two passport photographs, and the application fee.
7. Submit your training course certificate within ninety days of your permit approval.

If you fulfill all the requirements, your CCW permit will be issued and valid for usage.

Delaware CCW Permit Training Requirement

Enrolling in a state-licensed course is essential to obtaining a Delaware CCW permit. The course should cover firearm safety, storage, shooting techniques, understanding federal and state gun laws, and legal aspects of dealing with firearms.

Conclusion

Delaware’s concealed carry permit system is subject to strict regulations and requirements. If you are looking to carry a concealed firearm in the state, make sure you meet all the criteria and understand the reciprocity agreements with other states. Always adhere to the location restrictions to avoid legal issues. Stay informed about Delaware’s gun laws to ensure a safe and lawful carrying experience.

FAQs;

Q1. How Long Is Delaware CCW Permit Valid For?

An initial permit is valid for three years, and you have five years to renew it.

Q2. How Long Will It Take Me To Get A CCW Permit In Delaware?

There is no specified period; the processing time may vary.

Q3. How Many Times Can A Non-Resident Get A Temporary CCW Permit In Delaware?

Non-residents can get a temporary permit a maximum of three times.

Q4. How Much Is Delaware CCW Permit Application?

The application fee is sixty-five dollars.

Q5. Can a non-resident get a CCW in Delaware?

Yes, Delaware issues concealed carry permits to non-residents who meet the requirements including a firearms training course and background check.

Q6. What permits do I need to own a pistol Delaware?

A permit to purchase and carry a concealed deadly weapon is required to both purchase and own a handgun in the state of Delaware.

Q7. How much is the concealed carry course in Delaware?

The cost of a concealed carry course in Delaware typically ranges from $75 to $200 depending on the provider and length of training.