The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State Arizona of  as of 11/5/2025. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to the Arizona State legislation at the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Arizona’s firearm laws are designed to balance individual rights with public safety. Understanding these laws is essential for lawful concealment, open carry, and responsible firearm handling. This guide provides a detailed overview of Arizona gun laws, including permit requirements, carry restrictions, recent legislative changes, and resources to ensure compliance.

1. Arizona Concealed Carry Law

Permitless Concealed Carry

• Constitutional Carry: Since July 2010, Arizona has operated as a permitless carry state for both residents and non-residents over 21. This means individuals can carry concealed firearms without a permit in most areas, provided they are legally allowed to own a firearm.

Permitted Carry with a License

• While permitless carry is legal, holders of an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit benefit from reciprocity with other states, and receive legal protections in certain restricted areas.

Open Carry

• Open carry of firearms is permitted without a permit for individuals 18 and older who are not prohibited from possessing a firearm.

2. How to Obtain an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit

While Arizona allows permitless carry, a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) is still available for residents and non-residents who wish to:

• Obtain reciprocity in other states.
• Carry in areas where permitless carry might be restricted.
• Enhance legal protections.

Eligibility for a CWP:

• Age: 21 years or older (18+ for military members).
• Residency: Certain requirements for non-residents may vary—check current reciprocity and eligibility.
• Background: No felony convictions, domestic violence records, mental health adjudications, or illegal drug use.
• Training: Complete a state-approved firearm safety or pistol training course or provide an exemption—such as military or LE experience.

Application Process:

1. Submit the application in person at your county sheriff’s office or DPS regional office.
2. Provide fingerprints, proof of training/exemption, and valid ID.
3. Pay applicable fees (generally around $50).
4. Undergo a background check.
5. Receive your permit generally within 60 days.
6. Valid for five years and renewable.

3. Common Gun Law Infractions in Arizona

• Carrying without a permit (where applicable in restricted circumstances).
• Carrying in prohibited areas: Including federal buildings, schools, courthouses, hospitals, and private properties where sign posted restrictions exist.
• Discharging firearms unlawfully: Such as shooting into occupied buildings or urban areas.
• Possession by prohibited persons: Felons, persons with domestic violence convictions, or those adjudicated mentally incompetent.
• Modifying firearms illegally: Removing serial numbers or converting firearms to fully automatic.
• Failure to secure firearms: Especially in homes with minors or prohibited individuals.

Penalties range from fines to felony charges, depending on the infraction severity.

4. Prohibited Persons and Firearm Restrictions

• Felons and convicts of domestic violence.
• Mentally incompetent persons or those involuntarily committed.
• Individuals subject to restraining orders.
• Illegal drug users or those on restricted substances.
• Persons dishonorably discharged from military service.
• Illegal aliens or non-citizens without legal status.
• Persons with existing legal prohibitions under federal or state law.

5. Places Where Firearms Are Prohibited in Arizona

Despite permitless carry, firearm possession and carry are restricted in certain locations:

• Federal facilities: Post offices, courts, and military bases.
• Schools and school zones: Including grounds, buses, and events.
• Private property: Where owners post signs prohibiting firearms.
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities.
• Correctional facilities and detention centers.
• Bars and alcohol-serving establishments: Carrying firearms in such places is prohibited unless expressly permitted.

Violating these restrictions can result in significant criminal charges.

6. Open Carry Laws

• Open carry of firearms is permitted for individuals 18 and older without a permit, provided they are not prohibited by law.
• In vehicles: Firearms may be openly carried in vehicles by those 18+ without a permit.
• Remember, open carry may be restricted or prohibited in certain locales like private property, schools, or federally restricted sites.

7. Recent Gun Law Changes in Arizona (Within the Last Two Years)

In recent legislative sessions, Arizona has made notable updates to its firearm laws, aiming to enhance gun rights and streamline procedures:

• Permitless/Constitutional Carry Expansion: Since 2010, Arizona's permitless carry policy has expanded to include non-residents over 21, making it one of the most permissive states. Recent efforts have focused on clarifying legal carry zones and refining restrictions.
• Permit Reciprocity and Recognition: Arizona continues to expand its reciprocity agreements, recognizing permits from over 30 states, facilitating cross-border lawful carry.
• Background Check and Sale Laws: The state now requires background checks for private sales and online transfers to prevent prohibited persons from acquiring firearms through loopholes.
• Firearm Storage Laws: Recent laws emphasize safe firearm storage methods, especially preventing access by minors or prohibited persons.
• Red Flag Laws: Arizona enacted Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs), allowing law enforcement or family members to petition the courts for temporary firearm removal if a person is deemed a threat.

Always verify current laws through official state resources, as firearm regulations can evolve rapidly.

8. FAQs About Arizona Firearm Laws

Q1. Do I need a permit to carry a firearm in Arizona?
A: No. Arizona operates under a permitless carry policy, allowing legal adults over 21 to carry concealed without a permit. However, carrying in certain restricted areas remains illegal.

Q2. How do reciprocity agreements work?
A: Arizona recognizes permits from over 30 states with reciprocity agreements, meaning permit holders from those states can carry in Arizona legally. Always check the official reciprocity list for the most recent status.

Q3. Can I open carry in Arizona without a permit?
A: Yes. Open carry of firearms is permitted for adults over 18 without a permit, provided the firearm is not in a restricted location.

Q4. What are the restrictions on carrying in certain locations?
A: Firearms cannot be carried in federal buildings, courthouses, schools, hospitals, or places with posted signs prohibiting weapons. These restrictions are strictly enforced.

Q5. What are the penalties for illegal carry or violations?
A: Violations can result in fines, criminal charges, or license revocations. Felony charges may arise for serious violations such as carrying in prohibited areas or possessing unpermitted firearms.

Q6. Do I need to notify law enforcement if I’m carrying?
A: Generally, no notification is required for permitless carry, but in some situations or locations, informing an officer is advisable or required.

9. Key Resources & Contact Links

• Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS):  For license information, reciprocity updates, and legal guidance.

• Arizona Revised Statutes – Firearm Laws: For the full legal texts regarding firearm regulations.

• Arizona Concealed Carry Permit Info and Reciprocity Agreement List:  For current firearms permitting procedures reciprocity agreements with other states.

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): Provides federal laws related to firearms ownership and transport. 

• Local Law Enforcement:
  Contact your county sheriff’s office or police department for permits, local restrictions, and legal advice.

• Legal Assistance:
  Consult a qualified firearms attorney for guidance on your rights, legal carry, and legal challenges.

Final Thoughts

Arizona’s firearm laws are among the most permissive in the country, emphasizing permitless carry and reciprocity. However, responsible firearms owners must stay informed about carry restrictions, prohibited locations, and recent legislative updates. Always ensure your firearm is secured, carry proper proof of acceptable ownership or permit if necessary, and comply with all local laws.

Your safety and legal compliance are paramount—handle firearms responsibly and stay informed about your rights and obligations.