Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Connecticut operates as a may-issue state, where local law enforcement has discretion in granting handgun carry permits based on a “suitability clause”. This clause applies to both new permit issuance and revocations. Obtaining a permit involves a two-step process: first, applying for a temporary permit locally, and then submitting another application at the state level through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP).
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To purchase a handgun in Connecticut, one must hold a Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP) or obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for Pistol and Revolvers or Long Guns or Ammunition. Private handgun sales necessitate a background check performed by a federally licensed dealer.
Concealed carry is permitted in Connecticut with a CTPP, with a minimum age requirement of 21. As of October 1, 2023, open carry is illegal. Both residents and non-residents with a valid CCW license from their home state can apply for a CTPP. Certain locations, such as schools and state parks, are off-limits for concealed carry. Applicants must complete a state-approved firearms training course that includes live-fire exercises. Connecticut does not recognize permits from other states.
Individuals may use reasonable physical force to defend themselves or others from imminent physical force. Deadly force is only justified if there is a reasonable belief that the other person is using or about to use deadly force or inflict great bodily harm.
Reasonable physical force can be used to prevent attempted larceny or criminal mischief involving property. Deadly force is permissible only in defense of a person, not property.
Persons in control of premises can use reasonable physical force to prevent or stop criminal trespass. Deadly force is allowed under specific circumstances, including defense against a trespasser committing arson or a violent crime, or to prevent unlawful entry into a dwelling or place of work.
[Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann §§ 53a-19, 53a-20 & 53a-21]
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Connecticut incorporates the Castle Doctrine, which allows individuals to use physical force in defense of their premises without a duty to retreat. However, outside of one’s home, there is a duty to retreat before resorting to physical force.
Constitutional Carry?
- Does Connecticut allow constitutional carry? No.
Open Carry Permitted?
- Is open carry permitted in Connecticut? As of October 1st, 2023, no person shall knowingly carry any firearm openly, except in your home, on your land, or at a business you own.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?
- What is the minimum age in Connecticut to get a concealed carry permit? 21.
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?
- Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Connecticut with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)? No.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?
- Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Connecticut? Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Connecticut.
Tasers or Stun Guns?
- Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Connecticut? Yes. As of July 1, 2021, “electronic defense weapons” (e.g., stun guns) can be carried as long as the individual is 21 years old or older and possess a valid firearms credential.
Ammunition Restrictions?
- Does Connecticut have ammunition restrictions? Yes. Armor-piercing and incendiary .50-caliber ammunition is prohibited. A permit or certificate is required to purchase ammunition and must be renewed every 5 years.
Gun Permit Licensure?
- If Connecticut requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? May-issue.
Magazine Limits for Handguns?
- Does Connecticut have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? No more than 10 rounds. There are restrictions on “large capacity magazines” with some exceptions and a grandfather provision for magazines possessed before January 1, 2014.
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Carry in Vehicle?
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Connecticut?
Yes, with a valid CT Pistol Permit only. Otherwise, the weapon must be unloaded and the firearm and ammunition must be stored in separate locked containers during transport. As of October 1, 2019, any pistol or revolver in an unattended motor vehicle must be in the trunk, a locked safe or locked glove box or in a locked toolbox or utility box attached to the bed of a pickup truck.
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Connecticut?
Yes.
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Connecticut?
Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry with a valid CT Pistol Permit, unless posted.
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Connecticut?
Yes and no. Carrying open or concealed firearms for self defense is not permitted on state/national park or state/national forest properties. Per the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, firearms are only allowed by individuals that are actively engaged in permitted hunting, meaning in locations that hunting is permitted, with a current license, in the proper season, and with the appropriate firearm and ammunition for the animal being hunted. Carrying open or concealed firearms is allowed on portions of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Connecticut and the Weir Farm National Historical Park only with a valid CT Pistol permit.
Carry/Possess at a Hotel?
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Connecticut?
A permit to carry a handgun does not authorize a person to carry a handgun on any premises where the possession or carrying of a handgun is prohibited by the person who owns or controls the premises. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?
Does Connecticut have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in Connecticut state law, although employers may have a policy.
Non-Resident Permitting?
Does Connecticut issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
Yes, to individuals who hold a valid permit/license issued by a recognized United States jurisdiction.
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?
Does Connecticut allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No, however, the information is available for law enforcement.
Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying?
Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Connecticut?
No. There is no duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Connecticut.
Preemption?
Does Connecticut have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
No. There is no state preemption of firearms laws in Connecticut. Therefore, local authorities may regulate firearms and ammunition.
Brandishing?
Does Connecticut state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Connecticut law. However, disorderly conduct and breach of peace laws cover certain behaviors.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?
Does Connecticut have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
It is illegal to carry while under the influence of intoxicating liquor (BAC of 0.08 or greater) or any drug, or both.
Driver’s License Linked to Permit?
Is my Connecticut driver’s license linked to my Connecticut pistol permit?
Yes. Your Connecticut driver’s license is linked to your Connecticut pistol permit.
“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced?
Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Connecticut?
Yes. Violating “No Weapons Allowed” signs is considered a criminal offense in Connecticut.
Red Flag Law?
Does Connecticut have a red flag law?
Yes. Connecticut has a red flag law allowing seizure of firearms or ammunition under certain circumstances.
Handgun Purchase Process
To purchase a handgun in Connecticut, you must possess either a Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP), an Eligibility Certificate, or a Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers. Applications can be obtained online at the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) website or in person at any state police barracks.
Limitations on Handgun Purchases
Effective October 1, 2023, individuals cannot purchase or receive more than 3 handguns within a 30-day period, except for certified instructors who can acquire up to 6 handguns. Exceptions apply for police departments, exchanges at the same FFL within 30 days, transfers to museums, antique pistols, and transfers between FFLs. Violations are considered a class C felony.
Application Process
- Complete the Pistol Permit/Eligibility Certificate Application Form (DPS-799-C) and submit it along with:
- Firearms Safety & Use Course Certificate
- $35.00 fee
- Eligibility Certificate for a Pistol or Revolver or for Long Guns (DPS-164-C)
- Proof of legal presence in the United States (e.g., certified copy of birth certificate, U.S. passport, or documentation issued by I.C.E.)
- Proof of valid state-issued photo identification card
- Non-residents must include a copy of the permit or license to carry a pistol or revolver issued by a recognized United States jurisdiction.
- Submit fingerprints for a criminal history check through a law enforcement agency.
- Upon approval, your photograph will be taken at DESPP, and you will receive an eligibility certificate.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia
Wisconsin
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
The law mandates notifying the issuing authority within 48 hours of an address change. Contact the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit by phone at (860) 685–8290, via email at Special Licensing and Firearms Unit, or by mail to:
Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Division of State Police Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
1111 Country Club Road
Middletown, CT 06457
Include your name, permit number, old address, and new address.
The processing time for applications is 60 days.
If your permit is lost or stolen, file a police report in the area of loss and notify the issuing authority. Visit a state police headquarters or troop location where pistol permits are processed, pay a $5.00 processing fee, and receive a duplicate permit.
You can apply for a resident permit at any time if you hold a valid permit/license from a recognized U.S. jurisdiction.
Your Connecticut resident permit remains valid until expiration if you establish residency elsewhere. Notify the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit of your change of address and continue renewing your permit.
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a U.S. legal resident with a residence or business in the application jurisdiction
- Intend lawful handgun use
- Qualify as a “suitable person”
- Complete an approved handgun safety course
- Meet eligibility criteria, including no felony convictions or other disqualifications
- Consult legal counsel for eligibility questions.
- $105 initial fee: $35 for Eligibility Certificate/Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers/Non-Resident Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers, and $70 for a permanent permit
- Additional fees for fingerprints and background checks
- $70 for permit renewals
Permits are valid for 5 years.
Connecticut issues non-resident permits to individuals with valid permits/licenses from recognized U.S. jurisdictions. Applications can be submitted by mail to the DESPP at the provided address.
There is no statute in Connecticut prohibiting the wearing of a Covid mask while carrying concealed. However, it is illegal to wear a mask with the intent to deprive others of rights or privileges.
[Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53–37a]
No, firearms are permitted only for individuals actively engaged in legal hunting with proper licenses, during the appropriate season, and using suitable firearms and ammunition.
No, according to the Connecticut Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection’s 2019 Hunting and Trapping Guide, firearms possession is prohibited during archery hunting.
Yes, obstructing or interfering with another person’s lawful wildlife hunting activities is prohibited under Connecticut General Statutes 53a-183a.
Connecticut allows ownership of all types of knives, but restricts carrying certain types such as stilettos, blackjacks, dirks, and knives with blades longer than 4 inches. Exceptions exist for military personnel and specific activities like gun shows and historic reenactments.
