What States Recognize Pennsylvania Concealed Carry Permit

Pennsylvania concealed carry permit holders face a patchwork of regulations nationwide. The reciprocity landscape is complex, demanding careful planning for legal firearm carry across state lines.

This article provides an up-to-date overview of which states currently honor Pennsylvania's License to Carry Firearms (LTCF), helping permit holders avoid unintentional violations of the law. Knowing where your permit is valid is crucial for responsible gun ownership and interstate travel.

Reciprocity: States Honoring Pennsylvania's LTCF

Understanding reciprocity is paramount for any Pennsylvanian with a concealed carry permit. Reciprocity means a state recognizes Pennsylvania's LTCF as valid within its borders, allowing permit holders to carry concealed firearms according to that state's laws.

However, it's essential to verify this information frequently, as laws can change. Direct confirmation with the state's Attorney General or law enforcement agency is always advised before traveling.

Full Reciprocity States

These states generally recognize Pennsylvania's LTCF without significant restrictions, but it's still crucial to understand their specific regulations.

• Alabama: Pennsylvania permits are generally recognized.
• Alaska: Alaska honors valid Pennsylvania LTCFs.
• Arizona: Arizona recognizes valid concealed carry permits from all states.
• Arkansas: Pennsylvania permits are recognized.
• Idaho: Valid Pennsylvania LTCFs are honored.
• Indiana: Indiana recognizes Pennsylvania's permit.
• Kansas: Kansas has reciprocity with Pennsylvania.
• Kentucky: Pennsylvania LTCFs are recognized.
• Maine: Maine honors Pennsylvania permits.
• Michigan: Michigan recognizes Pennsylvania LTCFs.
• Mississippi: Mississippi recognizes Pennsylvania permits.
• Missouri: Missouri has reciprocity with Pennsylvania.
• Montana: Montana recognizes Pennsylvania LTCFs.
• Nebraska: Nebraska honors Pennsylvania permits.
• Nevada: Pennsylvania LTCFs are generally recognized.
• New Hampshire: New Hampshire honors Pennsylvania permits.
• North Carolina: North Carolina recognizes Pennsylvania's LTCF.
• North Dakota: North Dakota recognizes Pennsylvania permits.
• Ohio: Ohio has reciprocity with Pennsylvania.
• Oklahoma: Oklahoma recognizes Pennsylvania permits.
• South Dakota: South Dakota honors Pennsylvania permits.
• Tennessee: Tennessee recognizes Pennsylvania permits.
• Texas: Texas recognizes Pennsylvania LTCFs.
• Utah: Utah recognizes Pennsylvania LTCFs.
• Vermont: Vermont generally does not require a permit for concealed carry, but recognizes other states' permits.
• Virginia: Virginia has reciprocity with Pennsylvania.
• West Virginia: West Virginia recognizes Pennsylvania LTCFs.
• Wisconsin: Wisconsin recognizes Pennsylvania permits.
• Wyoming: Wyoming honors Pennsylvania permits.

Limited Reciprocity or Specific Conditions

Some states may have limited reciprocity agreements, meaning they only recognize Pennsylvania's permit under certain conditions. These conditions often involve age restrictions, residency requirements, or specific types of permits.

It is imperative to thoroughly research these conditions before carrying a concealed firearm in these states.

• Delaware: Delaware recognizes Pennsylvania permits if the holder is a resident of Pennsylvania.
• Georgia: Georgia recognizes Pennsylvania permits, but only if the holder is 21 years or older.
• South Carolina: South Carolina recognizes Pennsylvania permits, but only if the holder is 21 years or older.
• Colorado: Colorado recognizes Pennsylvania permits, but only if the holder is 21 years or older.

States with No Reciprocity

These states do not recognize Pennsylvania's LTCF. Carrying a concealed firearm in these states with only a Pennsylvania permit could result in criminal charges.

• California: California does not recognize permits from other states.
• Connecticut: Connecticut does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• Hawaii: Hawaii does not recognize permits from other states.
• Illinois: Illinois does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• Maryland: Maryland does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• Massachusetts: Massachusetts does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• New Jersey: New Jersey does not recognize permits from other states.
• New Mexico: New Mexico does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• New York: New York has extremely limited reciprocity, often requiring a New York permit.
• Oregon: Oregon does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• Rhode Island: Rhode Island does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• Washington: Washington does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.
• Minnesota: Minnesota does not generally recognize out-of-state permits.

Staying Informed and Avoiding Legal Trouble

State firearm laws are subject to change, and reciprocity agreements can be modified or revoked. Always verify current laws directly with the relevant state's authorities before traveling with a concealed firearm.

Resources like the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office and the websites of other state law enforcement agencies are valuable for staying up-to-date.

It is your responsibility as a permit holder to be informed about the laws in any state where you intend to carry a concealed firearm. Ignorance of the law is not a valid defense.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with an attorney or qualified legal professional for specific legal advice regarding firearm laws and reciprocity agreements.

Always prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership. Make informed decisions based on current laws to avoid legal consequences.