Louisiana Gun Laws
Louisiana is a state with unique gun laws and regulations that pertain to concealed carry. With a population of approximately 4.6 million, it’s important to understand the guidelines and requirements surrounding concealed carry in this state. From the number of licenses issued to the states honored under reciprocity agreements, this article provides a comprehensive overview of Louisiana’s concealed carry laws.
State Population and License Statistics
Louisiana boasts a population of around 4.6 million residents. Within this populous state, over 272,000 concealed carry licenses have been issued, showcasing a significant interest in personal protection and the right to bear arms. Furthermore, Louisiana extends reciprocity to 37 other states, allowing concealed carry permit holders to legally carry across state lines.
Constitutional Carry and Age Requirements
While Louisiana does not currently have a constitutional carry policy, an interesting exception applies. As of August 1st, 2022, active duty military personnel and veterans have the privilege of carrying concealed without a permit. This unique provision emphasizes the state’s appreciation for those who have served. For non-military individuals, the minimum age to obtain a concealed carry permit is 21 years.
Permit Types and Validity
Louisiana offers two types of concealed carry permits: a five-year permit and a lifetime permit. This gives residents options based on their long-term plans and commitments. Honorably discharged veterans of the military are eligible to obtain a permit for free if they meet specific criteria. This gesture acknowledges their sacrifice and service to the nation.
Louisiana Gun Laws Quick Facts
Constitutional Carry?
No – Technically Louisiana does have some constitutional carry language after August 1st, 2022. However, this is only for those who are on active duty or veterans of the military. Anyone outside these criteria does not “qualify” for constitutional carry.
Open Carry Permitted?
Yes – Louisiana allows for open carry for residents without a permit so long as they’re 18 years or older and legally allowed to own and possess a firearm.
Carry In Vehicle?
Yes – We had a difficult time finding specific legislation which stated the transportation of firearms in a vehicle, however, we did find an opinion written by the police stating that individuals may carry a handgun in a vehicle as the vehicle is viewed as the individual’s property.
Carry In State Park?
Yes – Louisiana allows for concealed carry in state parks as long as the individual has a concealed carry permit or one in a state that Louisiana has a reciprocal relationship with.
Carry-In Restaurants?
Yes/No – Restaurants that do not sell alcohol are okay for concealed carry. However, you may not carry a firearm into any establishment that primarily sells alcohol or into the bar areas of restaurants. Additionally, any establishment with a no weapons sign must be respected.
No Weapon Sign Enforced?
No – We were not able to find specific language around the No Weapons signs, except for the code related to restaurants or establishments that sell alcohol.
Must Notify Officer?
Yes – Louisiana must inform the state where you must notify the officer you’re carrying a firearm on you upon first interaction with them.
Louisiana CCW Reciprocity List
Louisiana extends reciprocity to the following states:
States Honoring CCW Permits:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
States with Restricted Reciprocity with Louisiana:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Florida
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Missouri
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Texas
- West Virginia
States NOT Honoring CCW Permits:
- California
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Washington D.C.
How Reciprocity Works In Louisiana
Reciprocity agreements in Louisiana are significant for those who often travel across state lines. These agreements dictate where concealed carry is allowed and where it is not. While the list of permitted locations is extensive, there are places where concealed carry is prohibited. These include law enforcement offices, detention facilities, courthouses, polling places, and more.
Louisiana Concealed Carry Laws
Louisiana operates its concealed carry laws under a “Shall Issue” policy. Residents of Louisiana are the only individuals who can receive a concealed carry license. Non-resident permits are not available. To apply for a permit, applicants must be residents, at least 21 years old, and have completed a firearms training course. The permit application process is managed by the Department of Public Safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Louisiana’s concealed carry laws emphasize the rights of residents to bear arms responsibly. While the state doesn’t have a complete constitutional carry policy, the exceptions for military personnel and veterans showcase the state’s commitment to recognizing service. Reciprocity agreements also play a crucial role in allowing concealed carry permit holders to travel across state lines while adhering to the laws of other states.
FAQs
Can non-residents obtain concealed carry permits in Louisiana?
No, only residents of Louisiana are eligible for concealed carry permits.
Are there any exceptions to Louisiana’s constitutional carry policy?
Yes, as of August 1st, 2022, active duty military personnel and veterans qualify for concealed carry without a permit.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in Louisiana state parks?
Yes, you can carry concealed in state parks if you possess a valid concealed carry permit.
Are “No Weapons” signs enforced in Louisiana?
Our research did not find specific language enforcing “No Weapons” signs.
Do Louisiana gun laws require notifying law enforcement officers about carrying a firearm?
Yes, Louisiana is a duty-to-inform state, meaning you must notify an officer when approached.
Are Louisiana gun laws strict?
No, Louisiana does not have very strict gun laws compared to many other states. Louisiana allows open carry of firearms without a permit and concealed carry just requires a standard permit. The state does not ban assault weapons, high capacity magazines, or attach extra regulations on suppressors and full auto weapons. At 18, residents can purchase and possess handguns. There is no waiting period for firearm purchases. Overall, Louisiana has relatively permissive and gun-friendly laws.
The state legislature has opposed gun restrictions, citing the right to bear arms. However, some major cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge enforce stricter local gun ordinances. But in most parts of Louisiana, the firearm laws are quite relaxed and not considered to be overly stringent.
