This guide may be out of date. It hasn’t been re-checked in the last 12 months. Confirm with the official source before you rely on it.
This is a plain-English overview, not legal advice. Gun laws change often. Always confirm with the official source linked on this page or a licensed attorney before you carry, buy, sell or travel.
North Carolina is a gun-friendly state, but its carry rules have some important details. This guide covers the basics for buying, carrying and traveling with a handgun in North Carolina. Laws change, so always confirm with the official sources linked on this page.
Buying a handgun
North Carolina no longer requires a pistol purchase permit from the county sheriff. The General Assembly repealed that requirement when it overrode the governor’s veto of Senate Bill 41 on March 29, 2023.
- From a licensed dealer: You complete federal Form 4473 and the dealer runs a federal background check, the same as in every state.
- Private sales: State law no longer requires a permit for private handgun sales. Federal law still prohibits selling to anyone you know or have reason to believe cannot legally own a firearm. Many sellers use a written bill of sale and check a buyer’s ID and concealed handgun permit as a precaution.
Concealed carry
North Carolina does not have permitless concealed carry. Senate Bill 50, which would allow it, passed the Senate on a veto override in July 2025 but, as of October 2026, still awaits a House override vote. Until that happens, you need a valid concealed handgun permit (CHP) to carry concealed.
- Where to apply: the sheriff of the county where you live. Many sheriffs offer online scheduling.
- What to bring: typically a government-issued ID, a completed and notarized application, proof of residency if your ID doesn’t show your county address, and the original certificate from an approved concealed carry course. Requirements, fees and processing times are set by law and your sheriff; check your county sheriff’s website.
- Age: applicants must generally be at least 21.
Reciprocity
Since December 1, 2011, North Carolina automatically recognizes valid concealed carry permits issued by any other state. The North Carolina Department of Justice also asks other states each year whether they honor North Carolina permits. Its current list includes 17 states, eight of which have told North Carolina of some limitation. States can change their policies at any time, so check the law of every state you plan to carry in before you go.
Where you can’t carry
Even with a permit, concealed handguns are generally prohibited in places such as schools, law enforcement and correctional facilities, courthouses and businesses that post a sign prohibiting concealed handguns. You may not carry while under the influence of alcohol or unlawfully obtained controlled substances. State law lists other restricted locations; review them before you carry.
Open carry
Open carry is generally legal in North Carolina for adults who may lawfully possess a firearm, without a permit. Restrictions apply in many of the same places as concealed carry, and at certain events such as parades and demonstrations.
Traveling
If you drive through other states, follow the federal safe-passage law: firearm unloaded and not accessible from the passenger compartment, in a locked container if your vehicle has no trunk. Your North Carolina permit does not authorize carry in states that don’t honor it.