Louisiana Gun Laws

Louisiana’s firearm regulations blend robust Second Amendment protections with public safety measures. This 2025 guide covers concealed and open carry rules, firearms purchasing requirements, reciprocity agreements, and recent legislative updates.

Overview of Louisiana Gun Laws

Louisiana permits permitless carry for eligible individuals and issues concealed handgun permits for reciprocity. The state balances gun rights with responsible ownership requirements.

Concealed Carry in Louisiana

Louisiana recognizes permitless concealed carry for individuals 18+ who legally may possess a firearm, but also issues concealed handgun permits for enhanced reciprocity.

Eligibility Requirements for Permitless Carry:

Must be at least 18 years old
No felony convictions or violent misdemeanor convictions
Not subject to protective orders or domestic violence restrictions

Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP):

Must be at least 21 years old
Complete an approved firearms safety course
No disqualifying criminal history
Payment of application fee and submission of fingerprints

Open Carry in Louisiana

Open carry is legal without a permit for individuals 18+ in most public places. Certain areas (schools, courthouses, polling places) restrict open and concealed carry by signage.

Purchasing Firearms in Louisiana

Handguns & Long Guns:

No state permit or registration required
Background checks required only if purchasing from federally licensed dealers
No mandatory waiting periods at state level

Louisiana does not impose statewide firearm registration requirements.

Magazine and Firearm Restrictions

No restrictions on magazine capacity at the state level
No assault weapon bans beyond federal regulations

Reciprocity Agreements

Louisiana concealed handgun permits are honored by many states. Permitless carry is recognized only within Louisiana.

Verify out-of-state reciprocity before traveling.

Transporting Firearms

Firearms in vehicles must be carried unloaded and secured in a closed container or rack, unless carried by an eligible permitless carry individual.

Recent and Upcoming Changes for 2025

Legislative review of concealed handgun permit processes
Discussions on off-duty law enforcement carry expansions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a concealed handgun permit required in Louisiana?
No for in-state carry (permitless), but obtaining a permit benefits traveling veterans and permit holders.

Can open carry be prohibited by private businesses?
Yes, private property owners can restrict firearms through clear signage.

Are there additional training requirements for permit applicants?
Yes, applicants must complete a state-approved safety and training course.

Sources Cited

This guide references official and authoritative sources:

Keep informed on Louisiana firearm laws by consulting these resources and local authorities regularly.