The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of Louisiana as of 11/17/2025. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to the State of Louisiana legislation.  Another great resource is the Louisiana State Police Department.

Louisiana’s firearm laws are designed to balance robust personal rights with public safety, providing clear regulations for firearm ownership, carry, and transport. This guide offers an in-depth look at the state’s legal framework to help residents, visitors, and gun owners stay compliant and responsible.

1. General Gun Laws in Louisiana

Ownership & Transfer:

• Firearms are generally legal to buy, own, and transfer without excessive restrictions.
• Background checks are required for firearms purchased from licensed dealers.
• There is no registration of firearms for the vast majority of guns, but some specific types (e.g., machine guns, silencers) are highly regulated or prohibited.

Storage & Safety:

• While there is no universal storage law, responsible gun owners are encouraged to securely store firearms, especially where minors or unauthorized persons could access them.
• Leav­ing firearms in unsecured vehicles or homes can lead to liability if used unlawfully or stolen.

Ammunition:

• Purchase and transfer of ammunition are generally unrestricted, but some local ordinances may impose restrictions.

2. Concealed Carry Law in Louisiana

Legal Framework:

• Louisiana issues permits for concealed carry under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 40, Chapter 13.
• Louisiana is a shall-issue state: if applicants meet legal requirements, the permit must be issued.

What the Permit Allows:

• Carry concealed in most public areas, with restrictions.
• Recognize reciprocity with many states (verify current agreements).
• Carry in your vehicle loaded or unloaded if in possession of a valid permit.

Restrictions:

• No carry in federal buildings, courthouses, schools, or private properties posted with signs prohibiting firearms.
• Certain establishments like bars or liquor stores may restrict firearms per property policies.

3. How to Obtain a Louisiana Concealed Carry Permit

Eligibility:

• Be 21 years old or older.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• Undergo a background check—no felony or serious misdemeanor involving violence.
• Complete an approved firearms safety or training course.

Application Process:

• Submit your application through your local sheriff’s office or the Louisiana State Police.
• Provide fingerprints, proof of training, valid identification, and pay the application fee (typically around $100).
• Undergo background screening and criminal history review.
• Processing times range from 30 to 60 days.

Renewal:

• Permits are valid for 5 years, with renewal requiring a new background check and current application.

4. Common Gun Law Infractions in Louisiana

• Carrying without a permit in public (where required).
• Carrying in restricted areas such as schools, courthouses, federal property, or private property with signage prohibiting guns.
• Possession of illegal or prohibited firearms (e.g., illegal modifications, unregistered items).
• Carrying loaded firearms outside permitted areas without a license.
• Transporting firearms unlawfully, such as unsecured in vehicles or across state lines.

Penalties can include fines, license revocation, or criminal charges, especially when violations involve restricted areas or prohibited persons.

5. Prohibited Persons From Owning or Carrying Firearms

• Felons or individuals with felony convictions are prohibited from possessing firearms.
• Persons under domestic violence restraining orders or convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors.
• Those adjudicated mentally ill or involuntarily committed.
• Individuals with illegal drug or controlled substance addictions.
• Persons dishonorably discharged from the military.
• Persons not legally present in the U.S. (illegal aliens).

Federal restrictions align closely, with criminal records disqualifying individuals from firearm possession nationwide.

6. Prohibited Places for Carrying Firearms

• Federal facilities: courthouses, post offices, military bases.
• Schools and school buses: unless authorized under specific circumstances.
• Private property posted with “No Guns” signs.
• Federal or state courthouses.
• Places where alcohol is the primary business and prohibits firearms per property rules.
• Correctional facilities or detention centers.

Always observe signage and property policies to avoid violations.

7. Open Carry Laws in Louisiana

In Louisiana, open carry of firearms is generally legal without a permit for residents and visitors. However, restrictions may apply in certain areas, such as federal buildings, courthouses, schools, private properties with posted restrictions, and designated locations where local ordinances prohibit open carry. While open carry is permitted, it is advisable to check local laws and signage, as some jurisdictions may have additional restrictions. Always carry firearms responsibly and follow all applicable laws to ensure lawful and safe open carry practices in Louisiana.

8. Recent Gun Law Changes in Louisiana (Past 2 Years)

• 2021-2022: Louisiana expanded reciprocity agreements with additional states, allowing permit holders from recognized states to carry concealed in Louisiana.
• Permitless carry: Since August 1, 2021, Louisiana allows permitless carry for residents 21 and older for openly or concealed carry, provided the firearm is lawfully owned.
• Enhanced background checks: The state strengthened background check requirements, including reporting mental health adjudications and restraining orders to prevent prohibited persons from owning or carrying firearms.
• Restrictions on certain weapons and accessories: The law restricts unregistered “ghost guns” (homemade or unserialized firearms), and specific modifications like bump stocks or silencers remain prohibited.
• Local ordinances: Some municipalities have enacted restrictions or added signage rules in parks, government buildings, or private properties—always verify local laws before carrying.

9. Additional Key Laws & Best Practices

• Storage & Security: Responsible gun owners are advised to secure firearms at home with safes or locks, especially when minors or unauthorized persons are present.
• Transport: Firearms must be unloaded and securely stored when moving in vehicles, especially across state lines.
• Carry in public: Always ensure your firearm is lawfully carried in permitted areas and avoid restricted zones like federal buildings or private properties posted with signage.
• Training and education: Completing a firearms safety course is highly recommended and often required for licensing and court needs.

10. FAQs: Louisiana Gun Laws and Carry Rules

Q1: Do I need a permit to carry in Louisiana?
A: Permitless carry is law for residents 21+ since August 2021, allowing loaded or unloaded carry without a license. Non-residents must carry with a recognized permit or upon compliance with federal laws.

Q2: Can I carry a firearm into a private property?
A: Yes, unless the property owner has posted clear signage prohibiting guns. Carrying onto restricted private property could result in criminal trespassing or other charges.

Q3: Can I carry in a bar or restaurant that serves alcohol?
A: Yes, permitless carriers can carry in establishments that serve alcohol unless explicitly prohibited by signage or property rules.

Q4: Do I need to register my firearm?
A: No. Alabama does not require firearm registration for most guns, but certain weapons or modifications may be regulated depending on local laws.

Q5: How do I obtain a license or permit if needed?
A: Louisiana accepts applications for permits from residents and recognized out-of-state permit holders. Apply through the Louisiana State Police or local sheriff’s offices, fulfilling background, fingerprinting, and training requirements.

11. Resources & Contact Information

• Louisiana Department of Public Safety (DPS) — Concealed Carry & Reciprocity
  Official site for licensing, reciprocity agreements, and legal updates.

• Louisiana Revised Statutes
  Statutes governing carry permits and restrictions.

• Local Law Enforcement
  Your county sheriff’s office or police department can assist with licensing procedures and restrictions.

• BATFE Federal Firearms Regulations
  Guidance on interstate firearm transportation and federal law compliance.

Final Tips for Responsible Carry in Louisiana

• Verify reciprocity status before traveling—laws and recognized states can change.
• Carry your license and ID when legally carrying, if applicable.
• Respect private property signage and restrictions to avoid violations.
• Secure your firearm properly during transport—unloaded and in a locked container or case.
• Stay informed of Louisiana law updates through official government or law enforcement sources.

Conclusion

Louisiana offers permitless carry for residents 21+ and recognizes permits from numerous states for out-of-state residents, making lawful concealed carry accessible for many. Whether you are a local or visitor, understanding the laws, respecting restrictions, and practicing safe handling will help you carry responsibly and within legal bounds.

Always check the latest laws and reciprocity agreements. Responsible firearm ownership begins with knowledge, compliance, and safety.

For more assistance or legal guidance, contact your local sheriff’s office or visit the Louisiana State Police website.

Carry responsibly. Stay safe. Respect the law.