Hawaii Statewide Rule
Hawaii Open Carry: License Required Statewide
Key Facts
- Open Carry
- Open carry without a license is a class B felony.
- Hrs 134-9
- HRS 134-9 licenses for open carry are rarely issued.
- Transport Is
- Transport is allowed only unloaded in a container.
- Sensitive-place Restrictions
- Sensitive-place restrictions still apply when licensed.
Summary
Hawaii prohibits open carry of firearms in public without a license issued under HRS 134-9. Unlicensed open carry is a felony, making Hawaii one of the most restrictive states for visible firearm carrying.
(b) The chief of police of a county may grant to an applicant a license to carry a pistol or revolver and ammunition unconcealed on the licensee's person within the county where the license is granted, if the applicant: (1) Sufficiently establishes the urgency or need to carry a firearm unconcealed; (2) Is engaged in the protection of life and property; (3) Satisfies each of the criteria established by or pursuant to subsection (d); (4) Is not prohibited under section 134-7 from the ownership, possession, or control of a firearm and ammunition; (5) Is not found to be lacking the essential character or temperament necessary to be entrusted with a firearm as set forth in subsection (h); (6) Is a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States; and (7) Is of the age of twenty-one years or more.
Full Breakdown
HRS 134-25 and HRS 134-26 make it a class B felony to carry a loaded or unloaded firearm on the person or in a vehicle in public without a license. HRS 134-9 authorizes the county police chief to issue licenses to openly carry a loaded firearm only when the applicant is engaged in the protection of life and property and meets stringent qualifications. In practice, open-carry licenses have historically been almost never granted to ordinary civilians. The legal regime treats both concealed and open carry as license-restricted activities, with sensitive-place prohibitions applying equally. Transport of firearms is allowed only when unloaded and in an enclosed container directly to or from authorized locations under HRS 134-26.
Violations & Penalties
Carrying a firearm in public without a license is a class B felony under HRS 134-25.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I openly carry without a license in Hawaii?
Are open carry licenses commonly issued?
How can I transport my firearm legally?
Sources
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