New Jersey Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map
*Page Last Updated: June 28, 2024New Jersey is a shall-issue state that offers both resident and non-resident concealed carry permits to those who meet certain qualifications.
In New Jersey, a concealed carry permit is issued at the state level by getting authorization from a local police chief and then receiving final approval from a superior court judge. Non-resident permits are also issued to those who meet the same requirements as residents.
In order to qualify for a pistol permit in the state of New Jersey, you must be at least 21 years old; be a person of good moral character; provide four personal references; take a course and demonstrate competency with a firearm; and meet all federal requirements. There are also several factors that may disqualify you from being issued a CCW permit.
Open carry is strictly prohibited in New Jersey.
To learn more about New Jersey concealed carry laws, review state statutes here, visit the New Jersey State Police’s website, or contact state authorities. The state of NJ has strict firearm laws, and it is highly recommended to familiarize yourself with them before traveling to the region or attempting to purchase or carry a firearm in the state. Transporting a weapon in your vehicle without a NJ carry license and a legal purpose is illegal.
*Disclaimer: This New Jersey concealed carry reciprocity map is not legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, check your state laws or consult an attorney.
New Jersey Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance
Issue Type |
Shall issue |
Constitutional Carry |
No |
Open Carry |
No |
Nonresident Permits |
Yes |
Enhanced Permits |
No |
Legal Age |
21 |
Permit Valid |
2 years |
Legal to Conceal Weapons Other Than Handguns? |
No |
Reciprocating States |
26 |
States Honored |
0 |
Duty to Inform |
Yes |
Castle Doctrine |
Yes |
Stand Your Ground |
No |
Issuing Agency |
Local police department or New Jersey State Police |
New Jersey Concealed Carry FAQ
What is Reciprocity?
Concealed carry reciprocity refers to a mutual agreement between two states to honor CCW licenses issued by one another. Depending on the state, concealed carry reciprocity can vary greatly. Some states simply accept permits from other states, while others do so with some added caveats. To learn more about this topic, check out “What is Concealed Carry Reciprocity”.
Which States’ Permits Does New Jersey Honor?
New Jersey does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. However, it does offer non-resident permits to those who qualify.
States With Reciprocity to New Jersey
Gun laws vary from state to state. When traveling with firearms, it’s your responsibility to know and comply with the laws of the state you’re visiting. Before transporting a gun over state lines, always check the laws in that state to ensure you’re doing so legally.
The following states have a reciprocity agreement with New Jersey. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer New Jersey concealed carry reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply.
- Alabama
- Alaska*
- Arizona*
- Arkansas
- Florida*
- Georgia*
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa*
- Kansas*
- Kentucky*
- Maine*
- Michigan*
- Minnesota
- Mississippi*
- Missouri*
- Montana
- Nebraska*
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio*
- Oklahoma*
- South Carolina*
- South Dakota
- Tennessee*
- Texas*
- Utah*
- Vermont
- Virginia
- West Virginia*
- Wyoming*
Can You Conceal Carry in New Jersey Without a License?
No. You must have a valid New Jersey Permit to Carry to legally conceal carry in the state.
What are the Requirements for a Concealed Carry Permit in New Jersey?
To obtain a New Jersey concealed carry permit, you must meet certain eligibility requirements:
-
Be at least 21 years old.
-
Be of good moral character.
-
Demonstrate competency with the safe handling of firearms.
-
Provide four personal references.
-
Meet all federal requirements.
There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to conceal carry or obtain an NJ concealed carry permit:
-
Certain disabilities.
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Having an outstanding arrest warrant.
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Being subject to certain restraining orders or having a history of violating restraining orders.
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A voluntary admission to a mental hospital or institution.
For a full, detailed list of concealed carry eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in the state of New Jersey, visit the New Jersey State Police’s website.
Can a Non-resident Concealed Carry in New Jersey?
Yes. Those who don’t live in the state can conceal carry once they’ve obtained a non-resident CCW permit issued by New Jersey.
Can You Open Carry in New Jersey?
No. Open carry is illegal in the state of New Jersey.
Where CAN’T You Conceal Carry in New Jersey?
Even with a concealed carry permit, some locations are off-limits to concealed carry in the state of New Jersey, including educational institutions; daycare centers; casinos; state parks; Wildlife Management Areas, state forests, and national forests; hospitals, health care facilities, and nursing homes; correctional facilities and halfway houses; homeless shelters; entertainment venues of any kind including stadiums, arenas, amusement parks, racetracks, libraries, and museums; youth sporting events and recreational facilities, including public parks, beaches, and playgrounds; anywhere that serves alcohol for onsite consumption; airports and transportation hubs; polling places; courthouses; law enforcement stations; government buildings and meetings; demonstrations, protests, and licensed public gatherings; ferry services to certain monuments; and any place where it is prohibited by federal law.
Where Can I Learn More About New Jersey Carry Laws?
You can visit the New Jersey State Police’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit eligibility or to apply for a New Jersey wear and carry permit. For the official laws regarding New Jersey concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read state statutes here.
This reciprocity map is provided for informational purposes only. Any activity involving firearms is potentially dangerous and could result in property damage, serious injury, disabling injury or death. All firearms must be handled in a responsible manner and in accordance with applicable law. The author disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy, misuse of, or misinterpretation of information contained in this reciprocity map.