The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of Georgia as of 10/23/2025. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to the Georgia State Code at O.C.G.A. § 16-11-129. Another great resource is the GeorigaPacking.org site.

Georgia Non-Resident Concealed Carry Laws and Permit Requirements

Important: You cannot obtain a Georgia non-resident concealed carry permit because Georgia law requires applicants to be Georgia residents to apply for a Weapons Carry License (WCL). However, due to Georgia’s "constitutional carry" laws, non-residents who are legally able to possess a handgun may carry a concealed firearm within Georgia without a permit.

Georgia's "Constitutional Carry" and Its Implications for Non-Residents

Georgia is a permitless carry state, often referred to as a "constitutional carry" state. This means that both residents and non-residents who meet certain legal criteria can carry a concealed handgun without a license.

Key Points:

• Lawful possession: You must be legally permitted to own and carry a handgun. This excludes convicted felons or individuals with disqualifying criminal records, such as certain misdemeanor domestic violence convictions.
• No permit required: As long as you meet the legal requirements, you can carry a concealed handgun without obtaining a WCL. This applies to everyday carry in public places.

Reciprocity and Out-of-State Permits in Georgia

• Permit reciprocity: Georgia maintains agreements with many other states, meaning if you hold a valid concealed carry permit from your home state, you can carry your firearm concealed in Georgia legally.
• Before traveling, verify if your state's permit is recognized by Georgia through official reciprocity maps or resources to ensure compliance.

How Non-Residents Can Legally Carry in Georgia

While non-residents cannot apply for a Georgia non-resident WCL (since Georgia law restricts issuance to residents), they can carry conceled without a permit if they meet the following conditions:

• They are lawfully able to possess a handgun under federal and state law.
• They are not a convicted felon or otherwise disqualified from firearm possession.
• They are over 18 years old (or 21, depending on the law).

For Georgia Residents or Those Who Need a WCL for Out-of-State Travel:

• Residency requirement: You must be a Georgia resident.
• Age requirement: You must be at least 21 years old (or 18 if in active military service with proof).
• Application process: You must apply through your local probate court, complete an application that includes fingerprinting and a background check, and pay applicable fees.

Summary of Georgia’s Firearm Laws for Non-Residents

• No non-resident permit issuance: Georgia does not issue non-resident Weapons Carry Licenses.
• Permitless carry: Non-residents who are legally allowed to possess a firearm may carry concealed without a license under Georgia’s constitutional carry laws.
• Reciprocity: If you hold a valid permit from your home state recognized by Georgia, you can carry legally within Georgia.
• Legal possession: All carriers must meet federal and state requirements for firearm possession, including age and criminal background considerations.

Final Tips

• Always verify current laws before carrying or traveling.
• Respect private property and posted restrictions.
• Carry your proof of legal possession and any necessary permits or licenses.
• For specific questions, consult the Georgia Department of Public Safety or legal counsel.

Stay informed, stay responsible, and enjoy safe carry!