North Carolina Concealed Carry (2026)

Full Breakdown

NCGS 14-415.10 through 14-415.24 establish the concealed handgun permit system. Applicants must be 21 or older, complete an approved firearms safety course, pass background and mental-health checks, and apply through the sheriff of their county of residence. Permits are valid for five years. Concealed carry is prohibited in schools, courthouses, government buildings, law-enforcement facilities, and any private property posted against carry. Open carry is generally legal without a permit, but concealment of a handgun without a permit remains a crime under NCGS 14-269.

Violations & Penalties

Carrying a concealed handgun without a permit is a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class H felony for subsequent offenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does North Carolina allow permitless concealed carry?

No. North Carolina requires a concealed handgun permit issued by the county sheriff to carry a concealed handgun in public.

Where can I not carry concealed even with a permit?

You cannot carry concealed in schools, courthouses, state and federal government buildings, law-enforcement offices, or any private property posted against concealed carry.

Sources

NCGS 14-415.10 Concealed Handgun Permit

North Carolina Concealed Handgun Permit Rules