Utah Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW): Gun Laws, Application, Requirements & Online Training
Utah is renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, but it’s also important to be aware of the state’s gun laws, especially if you’re interested in carrying a concealed firearm. In this article, we’ll explore Utah’s concealed carry permit system, reciprocity with other states, location restrictions, and other essential aspects of the state’s gun laws.
Utah Concealed Carry Permit
To carry a concealed firearm in Utah, you need a concealed carry permit issued by the Department of Public Safety. Both residents and non-residents can apply for the permit, but non-residents must first submit a license to carry from their original state before proceeding with the application.
Age Requirements
To apply for a standard concealed carry permit, applicants must be at least twenty-one years old. However, there’s an exception for provisional permits, which are available to those aged eighteen to twenty who want to carry a concealed firearm within the state.
Provisional Permits
Utah offers provisional permits for young adults between the ages of eighteen and twenty who want to carry concealed firearms within the state. However, the permit becomes invalid after the holder’s twenty-first birthday, and it cannot be used outside of Utah.
Utah CCW Permit Reciprocity
Utah has reciprocity with several other states regarding concealed carry permits. Reciprocity means that Utah will accept a CCW permit from every state, as long as the permit holder meets the age requirement. However, it’s crucial to understand the different levels of reciprocity:
States That Accept Utah Permits
If you have a concealed firearm permit issued by Utah, you can carry concealed in these states as long as you meet Utah’s age requirement of twenty-one.
States That Honor Utah Permits
Utah permits are honored in five other states, allowing you to possess firearms within their jurisdictions.
States With Restricted Reciprocity
Seventeen states will only accept a Utah CCW permit from residents of Utah. Non-residents cannot conceal carry in these states with a Utah permit.
States with Permitless Carry Policies
Fourteen states have permitless carry policies, meaning you can carry concealed without a permit from another state. However, it’s essential to know and comply with their specific requirements.
Understanding Gun Laws in Different States
It’s essential to be aware of the gun laws and concealed carry policies of any state you plan to visit, even if there’s reciprocity with your home state. Gun laws can vary significantly, and assumptions based on reciprocity can lead to legal trouble.
Location Restrictions in Utah
While Utah issues concealed firearm permits, it’s essential to know that not all areas of the state allow concealed carry, even with a valid permit. The only exceptions to this rule are peace officers and law enforcement officers.
Private Properties with Restrictions
Some private properties and buildings may have signage prohibiting the possession of firearms on their premises. Always be vigilant and respectful of such signs to avoid legal complications.
Places Where You Can Conceal Carry in Utah
There are specific places in Utah where concealed carry is prohibited. It’s essential to know these locations to avoid legal trouble:
- Prisons or detention facilities
- Courthouses or during court proceedings
- Areas secured by law enforcement officers
- Buildings used for law enforcement operations
- Mental institutions, hospitals, or healthcare centers
- Places of worship (churches, mosques, synagogues)
- Safety areas of an airport
- Private properties with no-gun signs
Misconceptions and Clarifications
Despite some misconceptions, you can conceal carry in specific locations in Utah, provided you meet all legal requirements:
- Restaurants that sell alcohol, as long as you’re not under the influence or restricted by a sign
- Your personal vehicle with a valid Utah CCW permit
- Roadside areas and recreational locations
- State and national forests, parks, and wildlife management areas
- Public schools with your CCW permit
Conceal Carry for Law Enforcement Officers in Utah
Law enforcement officers, both active and retired, are authorized to carry concealed firearms under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA). The Department of Public Safety oversees the qualification process for retired officers to conceal carry in Utah.
Buying and Selling Firearms in Utah
Utah does not require a purchase permit for buying firearms, and there’s no gun registration list for approved firearms. However, background checks are mandatory for purchases from federally licensed dealers.
Criminal Record Background Check in Utah
If you buy a firearm from a private dealer, you may not need to undergo a background check. However, federally licensed dealers will require a background check before completing the sale. Having a Utah concealed firearm permit exempts you from background checks for firearm purchases.
Age Requirement for Firearm Possession in Utah
To possess or transport a firearm in Utah, you must be at least eighteen years old, but remember that the age requirement for applying for a concealed carry permit is twenty-one.
Utah’s Castle Doctrine Policy
Utah has a Castle Doctrine law that justifies the use of deadly force in self-defense against intruders or felons on your property. This law provides immunity against civil liability in certain situations, but it’s essential to understand the limitations and responsibilities it entails.
Utah CCW Permit Requirements
To be eligible for a concealed carry permit in Utah, you must meet specific requirements:
- Be at least twenty-one years old (eighteen for provisional permits)
- Demonstrate good character
- Complete a Utah concealed carry permit course
- Have no felony or violent crime convictions
- Have no convictions related to alcohol or narcotics
- Meet federal laws for firearm possession and handling
Applying for a CCW Permit in Utah
To apply for a concealed carry permit CCW in Utah, you need to follow these steps:
- Complete a firearm training course endorsed by the Bureau of Criminal Identification.
- Obtain the application, either online or in person.
- Take your fingerprints at the Bureau of Criminal Identification or a local law enforcement agency.
- Submit the application form along with the required documents, such as your driver’s license, passport photograph, fingerprint card, and firearm training certificate.
- Wait for notification of approval or denial, which can take up to sixty days.
Provisional CCW Permits
If you’re between eighteen and twenty years old, you can apply for a provisional CCW permit. The application process and requirements are the same as for a regular concealed firearm permit, but it expires on your twenty-first birthday.
Firearm Training Requirements in Utah
Utah does not allow online concealed carry permit courses. You must attend in-person training, which covers safe handling, state laws on self-defense, and firearm transportation, among other topics. The training must be conducted by a BCI-certified instructor.
Conclusion
Utah is a shall-issue state for concealed carry permits, but applicants must meet strict requirements and undergo firearm training. Understanding the state’s reciprocity agreements and location restrictions is crucial for responsible gun ownership. Always comply with Utah’s gun laws and regulations to ensure your safety and avoid legal consequences.
FAQs;
Q1. For How Long Will My Utah Concealed Firearm Permit be Valid?
Your concealed firearm permit in Utah is valid for five years. After that, you must renew it to maintain its legality.
Q2. How Much is the Utah CCW Permit Application?
The initial application for a Utah concealed carry permit costs $53.25 for both residents and non-residents. Renewals cost $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents.
Q3. How Soon Can I Apply for a Renewal Permit in Utah?
You can apply for a renewal permit one month before your current permit expires.
Q4. How Long Will It Take to Get My Utah Concealed Carry Permit?
The processing period for concealed carry permit applications in Utah is approximately sixty days.
Q5. How much is a CCW in Utah?
A concealed firearm permit costs around $57 in Utah and is valid for 5 years.
Q6. How long does a Utah concealed carry permit take?
Approval for a Utah concealed carry permit usually takes 30-60 days after fingerprinting and application.
