Rules for Open Carry in North Carolina
Open carry is legal in North Carolina without a permit, if you can legally own a firearm. You must be at least 18 years old with no felony convictions. The state places no limits on weapon caliber size or magazine capacity.
In general, anyone 21 years of age or older who is legally allowed to possess a firearm may openly carry a handgun without any type of license. Long guns may also be openly carried without a license so long as they are not loaded with ammunition. Certain areas such as schools and government buildings are off-limits. To open carry a handgun, a person must be at least 18 years of age.
State law restricts open (and concealed) carry in places such as schools, government buildings, parades, picket lines, and demonstrations. Local government can enact further restrictions to regulate or prohibit open carry on streets, sidewalks, alleys, and other public property.
Concealed Carry Regulations in North Carolina
Concealed carry is legal with a license/permit. North Carolina Concealed Handgun Permits (CHP) are issued to residents only and require a firearms training course that has been approved by the state.
By contrast, concealed carry in North Carolina is subject to more rules and regulations. Eligibility requirements for concealed carry permits in North Carolina include being a United States citizen, being at least 21 years old, having a clean criminal record, and meeting the mental health standards set forth by the state. In North Carolina, concealed carry permits last for five years before requiring renewal.
Open Carry of Loaded Guns in Vehicles in North Carolina
Open carry is legal in North Carolina without a permit for those over 18 years old with no felony convictions. There are no limits on weapon size or magazine capacity. Open carry is allowed in most public places, but not in areas with alcohol permits or on educational property.
Inside vehicles you may openly carry weapons. They must be either openly displayed, locked in a glove compartment, console, or trunk. Some local governments have open carry restrictions. Open carry means visibly carrying a firearm.
It is illegal to open or conceal carry firearms on educational property, including schools, colleges, and university events on or off campus. Other restrictions may also apply where polling takes place.
The state constitution protects the right to bear arms. However, open and concealed carry have limits in North Carolina. The state issues permits for concealed handguns and pistols.
In general, those over 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm may openly carry a handgun without a license. Long guns may also be carried openly if not loaded. Areas like schools and government buildings are off-limits. Courts have ruled that a concealed weapon within immediate reach of the carrier is considered concealed carry.
To open carry a handgun, you must be at least 18 years old. Local governments can regulate open carry of firearms in public areas. More rules apply for concealed carry permits, including training courses approved by the state. Concealed carry permits in North Carolina are valid for five years.
State law bans carrying firearms openly or concealed at schools, government buildings, parades, picket lines, and protests. Local governments can further restrict open carry on public property. Concealed carry requires a license issued to state residents, among other eligibility rules.