Here’s what you need to know about concealed carry laws in Pennsylvania, including key requirements, restrictions, and important legal details for 2025:
Key Requirements for Concealed Carry
Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a License to Carry Firearms (LTC), which allows for concealed carry.
Residency: Pennsylvania residents apply through their county sheriff (or city police, in Philadelphia). Non-residents may apply if they hold a valid license from their home state, provided Pennsylvania has a reciprocity agreement with that state.
Background Check: All applicants must pass a criminal background check. The issuing agency (sheriff or police chief) has 45 days to approve or deny the application.
Application Process: You must complete an application, pay a fee (typically $20), provide references, and submit a photo.
License Validity: The LTC is valid for five years and can be revoked if the holder becomes ineligible.
Where and How You Can Carry
Concealed Carry: With an LTC, you may carry a concealed firearm on your person or in a vehicle.
Open Carry: Open carry is generally legal for those 18 and older, except in Philadelphia and in a vehicle, where a license is required.
Reciprocity: Pennsylvania recognizes concealed carry licenses from many other states, depending on reciprocity agreements. Always check current agreements before carrying with an out-of-state permit.
Prohibited Locations: Federal buildings, schools, courthouses, and certain other locations are off-limits for concealed carry.
No Duty to Inform: You are not required to inform law enforcement that you are carrying unless asked.
Important Restrictions and Details
Handgun Purchase: No permit is required to purchase a handgun, but all sales (except transfers between close family) require a background check.
Registration: Handguns do not need to be registered in Pennsylvania.
Ammunition: It is illegal to possess armor-piercing ammunition with intent to use it in a crime.
Magazine Limits: There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns.
“No Weapons” Signs: These signs are not legally enforceable in Pennsylvania, but if asked to leave private property, you must comply or risk trespass charges.
Alcohol and Drugs: There are no specific statutes prohibiting carrying while under the influence, but it is highly discouraged.
Non-Lethal Weapons: Items like pepper spray and Byrna guns are legal to own and carry.
Summary Table
| Requirement/Detail | Pennsylvania Law/Regulation |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age for LTC | 21 |
| Open Carry (General) | 18+ (license needed in Philly/car) |
| License Issued By | County Sheriff or Philly Police |
| Background Check | Required |
| License Fee | $20 |
| License Validity | 5 years |
| Magazine Limits | None |
| “No Weapons” Signs | Not enforceable |
| Duty to Inform Officer | No |
| Handgun Registration | No |
| Waiting Period for Purchase | No |
Key Takeaways
-Concealed carry is legal with a License to Carry Firearms in Pennsylvania.
-You must be at least 21, pass a background check, and pay a fee to obtain the license.
-Open carry is generally legal for adults, with exceptions in Philadelphia and in vehicles.
-Pennsylvania honors many out-of-state permits, but check current reciprocity agreements.
-Always comply with property owners’ requests regarding firearms on private property.
-Stay informed about prohibited locations and changing laws.
For the most current information, always refer to the Pennsylvania State Police or your local sheriff’s office.
Sources:
- https://keystoneshootingcenter.com/blog/concealed-carry-laws-in-pennsylvania
- https://www.pa.gov/agencies/psp/programs/firearms/carrying-firearms-in-pennsylvania.html
- https://www.handgunlaw.us/states/pennsylvania.pdf
- https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/pa-gun-laws/