Introduction

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution grants citizens the right to keep and bear arms. Similarly, the Arizona Constitution affirms that “the right of the individual citizen to bear arms in defense of himself or the state shall not be impaired.” While federal laws impose certain restrictions on gun possession and use, state regulations can be enforced as long as they don’t conflict with federal law [1].

One federal regulation, the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act of 1993, mandates background checks for individuals purchasing firearms from licensed dealers. This law aims to ensure that buyers are legally permitted to own a firearm, considering factors like age, criminal history, and mental competence. If the purchaser already has a permit requiring a background check, such as a CCW permit, they are exempt from additional checks.

Arizona CCW Permit Requirements

Before Arizona’s concealed carry law was enacted in 1994, residents could only carry visible weapons without a permit. Concealed weapons required a CCW permit unless carried in a partially or fully visible holster. Since 2010, individuals legally allowed to openly carry can also carry concealed weapons without a permit, subject to certain restrictions.

Obtaining a CCW permit in Arizona is still beneficial for several reasons, including reciprocity with other states, carrying concealed weapons in certain public places, and within bars or restaurants that do not prohibit it.

Applicants must meet several requirements:

Be an Arizona resident or U.S. citizen.
Be lawfully present in the United States.
Be at least 21 years old, or 19 if active-duty military or honorably discharged.
Not be a prohibited possessor due to felony indictment or conviction unless the conviction has been expunged, set aside, or vacated.
Not suffer from mental illness or have been adjudicated mentally incompetent.
Successfully complete a firearms safety training program or otherwise demonstrate firearm competency with appropriate documentation.

Documentation can include a valid or expired Arizona CCW permit, certificates from qualifying safety courses, proof of military service, or a permit from another state that required training for issuance.

Firearms Safety Training Programs and Competency

Applicants must show proof of firearms safety training to demonstrate their competency. Acceptable documentation includes:

Safety or training programs approved by DPS or conducted by NRA-certified instructors.
Hunter education or safety courses approved by the Arizona Game and Fish Department or similar agencies in other states.
NRA firearms safety or training courses.
Law enforcement firearms classes for security guards or special deputies approved by DPS.
Evidence of current military service or honorable discharge.
Valid current or expired permits from other states that required testing or training.
Governmental police agency firearms courses for police duties.
Any other training conducted by DPS-approved or NRA-certified instructors.

Arizona operates as a shall-issue state, meaning the Department of Public Safety (DPS) must issue a CCW permit if the applicant meets all statutory requirements.

Understanding Arizona CCW Reciprocity

According to Hub AZ, concealed carry weapon (CCW) reciprocity allows a permit from one state to be recognized in another, enabling you to carry a concealed firearm beyond the state where your permit was issued [2]. Arizona CCW reciprocity helps protect your rights while carrying a firearm in other states. However, since this does not apply to all states, it is crucial to check the legal requirements of the states you plan to visit.

Benefits of an Arizona CCW Permit

Arizona is one of the few states that allows you to carry a weapon (concealed carry or open carry) without a permit, provided you meet all legal requirements. However, it still benefits you to obtain a CCW. Arizona CCW reciprocity laws are one major reason for this. When in another state that requires a concealed carry permit, simply being an Arizona resident is not enough to give you the right to carry a concealed handgun or other firearms. No permit means no right to carry your weapon.

Situations Where CCW Reciprocity Matters

Traveling with a Concealed Weapon
Having your firearm for self-defense is essential, especially when traveling to unfamiliar places. An Arizona CCW permit allows you to carry your weapon in states with reciprocity agreements. Ensure you check local laws regarding concealed carry in vehicles and other specific restrictions.

Moving with a Firearm
Relocating to a new state can be stressful, and understanding the firearm regulations in your new home state is crucial. Arizona CCW reciprocity may cover states you travel through and your new residence. Check the specific regulations for each state to ensure compliance, and consider obtaining a resident permit in your new state eventually.

States with Arizona CCW Reciprocity

The following states honor Arizona CCW permits:

Alabama
Colorado
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Iowa
Idaho
Indiana
Louisiana
Montana
Michigan
North Carolina
North Dakota
Nevada
New Mexico
Nebraska
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

States with Permitless Carry (Constitutional Carry)

States similar to Arizona that allow permitless carry include:

Alaska
Arkansas
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Mississippi
Missouri
New Hampshire
South Dakota
Vermont
West Virginia

When traveling to any of these states, Arizona CCW reciprocity applies, allowing you to carry your weapon. Always check local laws for each state, as restrictions on concealed carry can vary despite reciprocity agreements.

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References:
1. https://www.azleg.gov/Briefs/Senate/ARIZONA’S%20CONCEALED%20CARRY%20LAWS%202022.PDF
2. https://thehubaz.com/blog/2021/05/05/understanding-arizona-ccw-reciprocity/

Arizona CCW Reciprocity: Carry Your Firearm Across States