Wisconsin issues shall-issue concealed weapon licenses to qualified residents age 21+ who complete training, pass a background check, and pay required fees, with statewide preemption preventing local rules.
Wisconsin enacted concealed carry through 2011 Act 35, codified at Wis. Stat. 175.60. The Department of Justice issues licenses to applicants who are at least 21, U.S. residents, not prohibited from possessing firearms, and who complete a qualifying training course. Licenses are valid for five years. Licensed carriers may carry concealed handguns in most public spaces but not in courthouses, police stations, secure mental health facilities, beyond security checkpoints in airports, or in K-12 school grounds. Private property owners and employers may post against carry. The state recognizes licenses from states with substantially similar requirements. Section 66.0409 prevents municipalities from imposing additional carry restrictions.
Carrying concealed without a license is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 9 months jail and $10,000 fine. Carrying in prohibited locations is a Class B misdemeanor with up to 90 days jail and $1,000 fine.
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See how Madison's concealed carry rules stack up against other locations.
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