Understanding the differences between permitted carry, permitless carry, and constitutional carry is essential for any responsible gun owner. While these terms are often used interchangeably—especially “permitless” and “constitutional” carry—the reality is more nuanced. Laws vary widely from state to state, and misunderstanding them can put you on the wrong side of the law very quickly.
Let’s break it all down.
What Is Permitless Carry?
Permitless carry means that a state allows eligible individuals to carry a firearm without obtaining a carry permit from the state.
However—and this is where many people get tripped up—permitless does not mean lawless.
Even in permitless carry states, laws still regulate:
Who can carry
Where you can carry
How you can carry (open vs. concealed)
For example:
Some states restrict permitless carry to residents only
Some set minimum age requirements
Others prohibit carry in specific locations
Permitless carry simply removes the permit requirement—it does not remove legal responsibility.
What Is Constitutional Carry?
Constitutional carry is closely related to permitless carry and, for most practical purposes, means the same thing: carrying a firearm without a government-issued permit.
The term “constitutional carry” is rooted in the belief that the Second Amendment itself is the permit.
That said, states that recognize constitutional carry still impose state-specific rules.
Example: Same Concept, Different Rules
West Virginia allows constitutional carry for individuals 18 and older
Montana also allows it, but with different conditions and restrictions
Both states recognize constitutional carry—but the laws governing eligibility and locations are not identical.
Bottom line: Always read the fine print for the state you’re in.
How Many States Have Constitutional Carry?
As of now, 29 states recognize constitutional carry in some form.
This number continues to change as legislation evolves, which is why staying current is critical—even if you’ve carried legally for years.
National Reciprocity: What You Should Know
There has been discussion at the federal level—most notably by former President Trump—around national concealed carry reciprocity.
If enacted, national reciprocity would allow a permit issued by your home state to be recognized by other states, similar to how a driver’s license works.
However, even under reciprocity:
Each state would still set its own permit standards
States unfriendly to the Second Amendment may introduce stricter qualification requirements
Training, background checks, and renewal processes could become more demanding
If reciprocity becomes law, expect legal challenges and regulatory shifts—especially in restrictive states.
What Is Permitted Carry?
Permitted carry means exactly what it sounds like:
You must obtain a permit from the state before carrying a firearm.
Some states:
Allow open carry without a permit
Require a permit for concealed carry
Or require a permit for any form of carry
Yes—it’s confusing, and that confusion is why many well-meaning gun owners accidentally violate the law.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry Complications
In some states:
You can openly carry a firearm without a permit
But need a permit to conceal it
In others:
Concealed carry may be allowed without a permit
But open carry is restricted
The rules don’t always follow logic—only legislation.
Notable Changes: Wyoming’s Expansion of Carry Rights
Wyoming recently made major changes by eliminating several gun-free zones.
You can now legally carry in places that were previously off-limits, including:
Public schools
Government meetings (city, county, and legislative sessions)
Public airports (outside federally restricted areas)
Public state buildings, including the state capitol
These changes represent a significant expansion of lawful carry rights—but only within Wyoming.
Why You Must Always Check State Laws
Whether you carry openly or concealed—at home or while traveling—you must verify the laws of every state you enter.
Even experienced carriers who hold multiple permits regularly:
Check reciprocity agreements
Review restricted locations
Confirm recent legislative changes
Laws change. Ignorance is not a defense.
Final Thoughts
Carrying a firearm is a serious responsibility. Whether you’re operating under:
Permitted carry
Permitless carry
Or constitutional carry
The burden is always on you to understand the law.
Training, education, and staying informed are just as important as the firearm itself.
Stay safe. Stay legal. Stay trained.
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