The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of Ohio as of October 7, 2025. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to Ohio State Highway Patrol website.

It is important for the legally armed Ohio citizen to understand the duties incumbent upon them while exercising their privileges. These duties are spelled out in the Ohio Revised Code, Section 2923.12. For specific questions consult a licensed Ohio attorney, but in general, an armed citizen must:

• Promptly inform a law enforcement officer if they are carrying a firearm, should they be stopped for questioning, or in the case of a traffic stop.
• Keep their hands in plain sight should they be stopped by a law enforcement officer.
• Refrain from touching the firearm should they be stopped, unless lawfully ordered to do so.
• Comply with all lawful orders given to them by a law enforcement officer.
• Refrain from carrying a firearm in all statutorily prohibited areas (including courthouses, police stations, and many public buildings).
• Refrain from carrying in all privately owned or controlled areas where carriage is prohibited (a sign announcing the prohibition is suggested, but not required by law).
• Refrain from carrying a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or an illegal drug of abuse.
• Not improperly handle a firearm while carrying as defined by Ohio law.

This is not a comprehensive list, but is a good guide to most of the duties required of the armed Ohio citizen. If you have any questions, always consult an attorney familiar with the subject.

Resource Links

• Ohio State Concealed Carry Unit:  Official site for license applications, reciprocity updates, and law resources.

• Ohio Attorney General: Information on licensing and general Ohio Laws.

• Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Chapter 2923.125 et seq.:  Legal foundation for firearm laws, including carry, possession, and restrictions.

• Federal Regulations:  Guidance on interstate transport, federal firearms regulations, and compliance.

• Local County Sheriff’s Offices:  Contact your local sheriff or police department for licensing procedures and local ordinances.