New Jersey issues concealed carry permits under NJSA 2C:58-4 with strict justifiable need replaced by shall-issue standards post-Bruen, while sensitive-place restrictions limit where permitted carry is lawful.
Under NJSA 2C:58-4, residents may apply for a Permit to Carry a Handgun through their local police chief or the State Police. Following the U.S. Supreme Court's Bruen decision and Chapter 131 of the Laws of 2022, New Jersey eliminated the discretionary justifiable need standard but enacted extensive sensitive-place restrictions. Permitted locations exclude schools, government buildings, hospitals, bars, stadiums, polling places, parks, beaches, and many other listed venues. Applicants must complete training, demonstrate proficiency, pass a background check, and provide references. Permits expire after two years and require renewal.
Carrying a handgun without a permit is a second-degree crime under NJSA 2C:39-5(b), punishable by 5-10 years imprisonment with a Graves Act mandatory minimum.
See how Vernon's concealed carry rules stack up against other locations.
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