Arkansas Concealed Carry Laws & Information

We try to stay as up to date as possible, but always check with local law enforcement to be sure about which states honor your states permit.

The following states have permitless carry. This means that if you can legally possess a firearm in that state you can carry it concealed without a permit/license. You still have to abide by all conceaeled carry laws in that state. Please note that the last three states only allow residents to carry without a permit/license. Alaska, Arizona, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, Vermont, West Virginia, Idaho (Residents Only), North Dakota (Residents Only), Wyoming (Residents Only).

Information compiled from various state government and private sites from around the web.

Reciprocity: How This State Honors Other States Permits & Licenses

The U.S. state Arkansas honors all other States Permit/Licenses. They also Honors Non-Resident Permits/Licenses From the States They Honor.

It is highly recommended that you must read the opinion and use caution if you decide to Open Carry as the opinion is not Law. There is a case moving through the courts in Arkansas that will finally decide this issue. The opinion states that Open Carry without a permit/license is legal. The Opinion also states that Permitless carry either open or concealed while in a vehicle while on a “Journey” is legal in Arkansas. Concealed carry without a permit while on a journey in Arkansas is legal. Again read the opinion, it is not that long and gives examples of what is legal and what is illegal and how the law should be applied.

On December 29, 2017 – over 3 years and Arkansas has still not done anything about the confusion in their law on carrying Openly or Permitless Carry without being on a "Journey". However, use caution because some Authority in the state are stating that you can be arrested. See Open Carry Section for more information.

§ 5-73-321. Recognition of Other States' Licenses

A person in possession of a valid license to carry a concealed handgun issued to the person by another state is entitled to the privileges and subject to the restrictions prescribed by this subchapter. (HISTORY: Acts 2009, No. 748, § 43; 2013, No. 1089, § 1.)

How to Apply for an Arkansas Concealed Carry Permit

Online Initial Application and Renewal

You can Apply or Renew your license online since the Arkansas State Police preferred method. Just go to the Arkansas State Police here as they have all the information on applying online. You can also find more informational links that will answer most of the questions here.

Age Requirement for Applicants

According to § 5-73-309 (3) Is at least:

(A) Twenty-one (21) years of age; or
(B) Eighteen (18) years of age and is:

(i) Currently a federally recognized commissioned or noncommissioned officer or an enlisted member on active duty in the United States Armed Forces;
(ii) In the National Guard or a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces; or
(iii) A former member of the United States Armed Forces that has been honorably discharged;

Applications to be Mailed-in

64 years of age and younger - new application (mailed-in) fees are $137.00
65 years of age and older - new application (mailed-in) fees are $87.00

For on-line Application

New License (age 64 or younger) = $144.94 (Includes on-line application and background check fee.)
New License (age 65 or older) = $93.44 (Includes on-line application and background check fee.)

Please note: There is no fee reduction based on age for renewals.

Arkansas State Police (ASP) Concealed Handgun Carry License (CHCL) Application Information

* *Your firearms safety instructor may assist you with questions about the application process * *

The application and other documents submitted by the applicants must be completed in ink or preferably typewritten. Incomplete or unreadable documents could lead to denial of the application. Giving false, inaccurate or incomplete information on the application packet could result in license denial and/or criminal charges.

The applicant for an Arkansas concealed handgun carry license must submit the following items as an application packet to the Arkansas State Police (ASP):

(1) A properly-completed Arkansas Concealed Handgun Carry License Application form indicating New Application. Please submit the ORIGINAL application. DO NOT SEND COPIES OF THE APPLICATION. It is suggested that you make a copy of the application for your records.

(2) A The nonrefundable license fee and applicable fee(s) for state and national background checks. (1) check or money order payable to the "Arkansas State Police." All fees are NON-REFUNDABLE.

(3) A full set of classifiable fingerprints of the applicant; (ONLY blue applicant fingerprint cards with AR920570Z printed in the ORI field/section will be accepted). The fingerprint card must be completed in BLACK INK. Applicants are responsible for obtaining a complete, classifiable set of fingerprints. It is strongly suggested that fingerprinting be accomplished either through your local law enforcement agency, a private fingerprinting business by a trained fingerprint technician or your firearms safety instructor. Even if your fingerprints may have been taken before, a new fingerprint card as outlined above must be submitted. DO NOT FOLD THE FINGERPRINT CARD.

(4) A properly completed certification of training from a firearms safety instructor who is registered with the ASP. The application packet must be received by this office within six (6) months of the training date. Mail the application packet to:

Arkansas State Police,

CHCL Section,

1 State Police Plaza Drive.

Little Rock, AR 72209

Timely receipt from the six (6) month training date is determined by ASP receipt date, not mailing or postmark date. You may also bring your application packet to Arkansas State Police Headquarters at Interstate 30 and Geyer Springs Road (Exit 133) Little Rock.

Please be reminded that it will not be processed while you wait and do not call the office to inquire if they received your application. You may inquire about the status of your application until one hundred and twenty (120) days have passed since your application packet was submitted or department staff has contacted you. After one-hundred and twenty days (120) days if you have not received your license, you may e-mail questions to info@asp.arkansas.gov

For Renewal

Any applicants can now Renew their License online. Just go to Arkansas State Police here and follow the directions on the site.

§ 5-73-319. Transfer of a License to Arkansas

(a) Any person who becomes a resident of Arkansas who has a valid license to carry a concealed handgun issued by a reciprocal state may apply to transfer his or her license to Arkansas. (See Code and/or Contact the Issuing Agency for more information)

How to secure A Non-Resident Arkansas Concealed Carry Permit

Only Active Duty Military and their Spouse may apply for an Arkansas Permit/License to Carry. Must have all the documentation as a Resident needs to apply plus documents showing your active duty status and a dated signed letter from your Commanding Officer or their designee showing you are stationed in Arkansas. For more details, contact the ASP Licensing Unit.

Take note that the new law states “Residents” in the Military or Honorably Discharged from the military may apply at 18 years of age but may not apply to non-resident service members stationed in Arkansas. For more information, contact the AR State Police for this matter.

Areas You Can Not Carry Even With an Arkansas Concealed Carry Permit

Arkansas State University System, Weapons Policy

§ 5-73-306. Prohibited Places.

Except as permitted under § 5-73-322(g), a license to carry a concealed handgun issued under this subchapter does not authorize person to carry a concealed handgun into:

(1) Any police station, sheriff's station, or Department of Arkansas State Police station;

(2) Any Arkansas Highway Police Division of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department facility;

(3)

(A) Any building of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department or onto grounds adjacent to any building of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department.

(B) However, subdivision (3)(A) of this section does not apply to:

(i) a rest area or weigh station of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department;
(ii) A publicly owned and maintained parking lot that is a publicly accessible parking lot if the
licensee is carrying a concealed handgun in his or her motor vehicle or has left the concealed
handgun in his or her locked and unattended motor vehicle in the publicly owned and maintained
parking lot;

(4) Any part of a detention facility, prison, or jail, including without limitation a parking lot owned, maintained, or otherwise controlled by the Department of Correction or Department of Community Correction;

(5) Any courthouse, courthouse annex, or other building owned, leased, or regularly used by a county for conducting court proceedings or housing a county office unless:

(A) The licensee is either:

(i) Employed by the county; or

(ii) A countywide elected official;

(iii) A justice of the peace; or

(iv)

(a) Employed by a governmental entity other than the county with an office or place of employment inside the courthouse, the courthouse annex, or other building owned, leased, or regularly used by the county for conducting court proceedings or housing a county office.

(b) A licensee is limited to carrying a concealed handgun under subdivision (5)(A)(iii) of this section into the courthouse, courthouse annex, or other building owned, leased, or regularly used by the county for conducting court proceedings or housing a county office where the office or place of employment of the governmental entity that employs him or her is located;

(B) The licensee's principal place of employment is within the courthouse, the courthouse annex, or other building owned, leased, or regularly used by the county for conducting court proceedings or housing a county office; and

(C) The quorum court by ordinance approves a plan that allows licensees permitted under this subdivision (5) to carry a concealed handgun into the courthouse, courthouse annex, or other building owned, leased, or regularly used by a county for conducting court proceedings as set out by the local security and emergency preparedness plan;

(6)

(A) Any courtroom.

(B) However, nothing in this subchapter precludes a judge from carrying a concealed weapon or determining who will carry a concealed weapon into his or her courtroom;

(7) Any meeting place of the governing body of any governmental entity;

(8) Any meeting of the General Assembly or a committee of the General Assembly;

(9) Any state office;

(10) Any athletic event not related to firearms;

(11)

(A) A portion of an establishment, except a restaurant as defined in § 3-5-1202, licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises;

(B) A person with a concealed carry endorsement under § 5-31 73-322(g) and who is carrying a concealed handgun may not enter an establishment under this section if the establishment places a written notice as permitted under subdivision (18) of this section prohibiting a person with a license to possess a concealed handgun at the physical location;

(12)

(A) A portion of an establishment, except a restaurant as defined in § 3-5-1202, where beer or light wine is consumed on the premises;

(B) A person with a concealed carry endorsement under § 5-3 73-322(g) and who is carrying a concealed handgun may not enter an establishment under this section if the establishment places a written notice as permitted under subdivision (18) of this section prohibiting a person with a license to possess a concealed handgun at the physical location;

(13)

(A) A school, college, community college, or university campus building or event.

(B) However, subdivision (14)(A) of this section does not apply to:

(i) A kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) private school operated by a church or other place
of worship that:

(a) Is located on the developed property of the kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) private school;

(b) Allows the licensee to carry a concealed handgun into the church or other place of worship under this section; and

(c) Allows the licensee to possess a concealed handgun on the developed property of the kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) private school under § 5-73-119(e);

(ii) A kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) private school or a prekindergarten private school that through its governing board or director has set forth the rules and circumstances under which the licensee may carry a concealed handgun into a building or event of the kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) private school or the prekindergarten private school;

(iii) Participation in an authorized firearms-related activity;

(iv) Carrying a concealed handgun as authorized under § 5-73-322; or

(v) A publicly owned and maintained parking lot of a college, community college, or university if the licensee is carrying a concealed handgun in his or her motor vehicle or has left the concealed handgun in his or her locked and unattended motor vehicle;

(14) Inside the passenger terminal of any airport, except that no person is prohibited from carrying any legal firearm into the passenger terminal if the firearm is encased for shipment for purposes of checking the firearm as baggage to be lawfully transported on any aircraft;

(15)

(A) Any church or other place of worship;

(B) However, this subchapter does not preclude a church or other place of worship from determining who may carry a concealed handgun into the church or other place of worship;

(C) A person with a concealed carry endorsement under § 5-16 73-322(g) may not enter a church or other place of worship under this section if the church or other place of worship places a written notice as permitted under subdivision (18) of this section prohibiting a person with a license to possess a concealed handgun at the physical location;

(16) Any place where the carrying of a firearm is prohibited by federal law;

(17) Any place where a parade or demonstration requiring a permit is being held, and the licensee is a participant in the parade or demonstration; or

(18) (A)

(i) Any place at the discretion of the person or entity exercising control over the physical location of the place by placing at each entrance to the place a written notice clearly readable at a distance of not less than ten feet (10') that "carrying a handgun is prohibited".

(ii)

(a) If the place does not have a roadway entrance, there shall be a written notice placed anywhere upon the premises of the place.

(b) In addition to the requirement of subdivision (18)(A)(ii)(a) of this section, there shall be at least one (1) written notice posted within every three (3) acres of a place with no roadway entrance.

(iii) A written notice as described in subdivision (18)(A)(i) of this section is not required for a privatehome.

(iv) Any licensee entering a private home shall notify the occupant that the licensee is carrying a
concealed handgun.

(B) Subdivision (18)(A) of this section does not apply if the place is:

(i) A public university, public college, or community college, as defined in § 5-73-322, and the licensee is carrying a concealed handgun as provided under § 5-73-322;

(ii) A publicly owned and maintained parking lot if the licensee is carrying a concealed handgun in his or her motor vehicle or has left the concealed handgun in his or her locked and unattended motor vehicle.

(iii) A parking lot of a private employer and the licensee is carrying a concealed handgun as provided
under § 5-73-324.

(C) The person or entity exercising control over the physical location of a place that does not use his, hers, or its authority under this subdivision (18) to prohibit a person from possessing a concealed handgun is immune from a claim for monetary damages arising from or related to the decision not to place at each entrance to the place a written notice under this subdivision (18).

(19) (A)

(i) A place owned or operated by a private entity that prohibits the carrying of a concealed handgun that posts a written notice as described under subdivision (18)(A) of this section.

(ii)

(a) A place owned or operated by a private entity that chooses not to post a written notice as described under subdivision (18)(A) of this section may provide written or verbal notification to a licensee who is carrying a concealed handgun at the place owned or operated by a private entity that carrying of a concealed handgun is prohibited.

(b) A licensee who receives written or verbal notification under subdivision (19)(A)(ii)(a) of this section is deemed to have violated this subdivision (19) if the licensee while carrying a concealed handgun either remains at or returns to the place owned or operated by the private entity.

(B) A place owned or operated by a private entity under this subdivision (19) includes without limitation:

(i) A private university or private college;

(ii) A church or other place of worship;

(iii) An establishment, except a restaurant as defined in § 3-5-1202, licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises; and

(iv) An establishment, except a restaurant as defined in § 3-5-1202, where beer or light wine is
consumed on the premises; or

(20) A posted firearm-sensitive area, as approved by the Department of Arkansas State Police under § 5-73- 325, located at:

(A) The Arkansas State Hospital;

(B) The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; or

(History: § 2; 2017, No. 562, §§ 2-5; 2017, No. 707, § 5; 2017, No. 859, §§ 4-6; 2017, No. 1071, § 2; 2017, No. 1090, § 1.)

§ 3-5-1202. Definitions

(11) "Restaurant" means any public or private place which is kept, used, maintained, advertised, and held out to the public or to a private or restricted membership as a place where complete meals are actually and regularly served, such place being provided with adequate and sanitary kitchen and dining equipment and a seating capacity of at least fifty (50) people and having employed a sufficient number and kind of employees to prepare, cook, and serve suitable food for its guests or members. At least one (1) meal per day shall be served, and the place shall be open a minimum of five (5) days per week, with the exception of holidays, vacations, and periods of redecorating. (History: Acts 1991, No. 611, § 1; 1995, No. 491, § 1.)

§ 5-73-119. Handguns -- Possession by minor or possession on school property

(b) (1) No person in this state shall possess a firearm:

(A) Upon the developed property of a public or private school, K-12;

(B) In or upon any school bus; or

(e) It is permissible to carry a handgun under this section if at the time of the act of possessing a handgun or firearm:

(12)

(A) The person has a license to carry a concealed handgun under § 5-73-301 et seq. and is carrying a concealed handgun in his or her motor vehicle or has left the concealed handgun in his or her locked and unattended motor vehicle in a publicly owned and maintained parking lot.

(B)

(i) As used in this subdivision (e)(12), "parking lot" means a designated area or structure or part of a structure intended for the parking of motor vehicles or a designated drop-off zone for children at a school.

(ii) "Parking lot" does not include a parking lot owned, maintained, or otherwise controlled by the Department of Correction or Department of Community Correction.

The Attorney General in Arkansas has issued Opinion No. 2003-244 cities and counties can post their parks with “No Firearms Allowed” signs. CCW holders cannot legally carry in these posted areas.

Act 1110 of 2003 was enacted to permit persons to carry in public parks. Sec 1 addresses places in which concealed handguns are not allowed. Any building wherein a state office is located and Schools.

Park Directive 3070

For Arkansas State Parks, These Building Include:

1. The Bladesmith School at Old Washington
2. DeGray Lake Resort Lodge and Convention Center
3. Maintenance Buildings
4. Marina Sales Offices
5. Mather Lodge
6. Mount Magazine Lodge and Conference Center
7. Museum Buildings with Offices
8. Ozark Folk Center Lodge Office, Recreation Room and Gift Shop
9. All Restaurants / Cafes
10. Queen Wilhelmina Lodge
11. Visitor Information Centers

Signs and Decals will be posted at the locations listed above.

§ 5-73-322 Concealed Handguns in a University, College, or Community College Building

(a)(1) As used in this section, "public university, public college, or community college” means an institution that:

(A) Regularly receives budgetary support from the state government;
(B) Is part of the University of Arkansas or Arkansas State University systems; or
(C) Is required to report to the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(2) "Public university, public college, or community college" includes without limitation a public technical institute.
(3) “Public university, public college, or community college” does not include a private university or private college solely because:

(A) Students attending the private university or private college receive state-supported scholarships; or
(B) The private university or private college voluntarily reports to the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(b) A licensee who has completed the training required under subsection (g) of this section may possess a concealed handgun in the buildings and on the grounds of a public university, public college, or community college, whether owned or leased by the public university, public college, or community college, unless otherwise prohibited by this section or § 5-73-30.

(c)

(1) A licensee may possess a concealed handgun in the buildings and on the grounds of the private university or private college where unless otherwise prohibited by this section or § 5-73-306 if the private university or private college does not adopt a policy expressly disallowing the carrying of a concealed handgun in the buildings and on the grounds of the private university or private college.

(2)

(A) A private university or private college that adopts a policy expressly disallowing the carrying of a concealed handgun in the buildings and on the grounds of the private university or private college shall post notices as described in § 5-73-306(18).

(B) A private university or private college that adopts a policy only allowing carrying of a concealed handgun under this section shall post notices as described in § 5-73-306(18) and subdivision (c)(1)(C) of this section.

(C) If a private university or private college permits carrying a concealed handgun under this section, the private university or private college may revise any sign or notice required to be posted under § 5-73- 306(18) to indicate that carrying a concealed handgun under this section is permitted.

(d) The storage of a handgun in a university or college-operated student dormitory or residence hall is prohibited under § 5-73-119(c).

(e)

(1) A licensee who may carry a concealed handgun in the buildings and on the grounds of a public university, public college, or community college under this section may not carry a concealed handgun into a location during which an official meeting lasting no more than nine (9) hours is being conducted in accordance with documented grievance and disciplinary procedures as established by the public university, public college, or community college if

(A) At least twenty-four (24) hours' notice is given to participants of the official meeting;

(B) Notice is posted on the door of or each entryway into the location in which the official meeting is being conducted that possession of a concealed handgun by a licensee under this section is prohibited during the official meeting; and

(C) The area of a building prohibited under this subdivision (e)(1) is no larger than necessary to complete
the grievance or disciplinary meeting.

(2) A person who knowingly violates subdivision (e)(1) of this section upon conviction is guilty of:

(A) A violation for a first offense and subject to a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100); and

(B) A Class C misdemeanor for a second or subsequent offense.

(f) This section does not affect a licensee’s ability to store a concealed handgun in his or her vehicle under § 5-73-306(13)(B)(v).

(g)

(1) A licensee who intends to carry a concealed handgun in the buildings and on the grounds of a public university, public college, or community college is required to complete a training course approved by the Director of the Department of Arkansas State Police.

(2)

(A) Training required under this subsection shall:

(i) Not be required to be renewed;
(ii) Consist of a course of up to eight (8) hours;
(iii) Be offered by all training instructors and at all concealed carry training courses; and
(iv) Cost no more than a nominal amount.

Hospital and University Areas That are Off Limits (Even with Endorsement)

§ 5-73-325. Firearm-Sensitive Areas

(a)

(1) The following entities may submit a security plan to the Department of Arkansas State Police for approval that designates certain areas as a firearm-sensitive area where possession of a concealed handgun by a licensee under this subchapter is prohibited:

(A) The Arkansas State Hospital;
(B) The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; and
(C)

(i) An institution of higher education that hosts or sponsors a collegiate athletic event.
(ii) A firearm-sensitive area under subdivision (a)(1)(C)(i) of this section is limited to an area where a collegiate athletic event is held.

§ 5-73-122. Carrying a Firearm in Publicly Owned Buildings or Facilities

(a)

(1) Except as provided in § 5-73-322 and § 5-73-306(5) 5-73-306, it is unlawful for any person other than a law enforcement officer or a security guard in the employ of the state or an agency of the state, or any city or county, or any state or federal military personnel, to knowingly carry or possess a loaded firearm or other deadly weapon in any publicly owned building or facility or on the State Capitol grounds. Except:

(D) If the person has completed the required training and received a concealed carry endorsement under § 5-73-322(g) and the place is not a:

(i) Courtroom or the location of an administrative hearing conducted by a state agency, except as permitted by § 5-73-306(5) or (6);
(ii) Public school kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) or a public prekindergarten, except as permitted under subdivision (a)(3)(C) of this section; or
(iii) A facility operated by the Department of Correction or the Department of Community Correction.

Open Carry (Without a Valid Permit/License)

Arkansas has still not straightened out the confusion in their law after 3 years. In December 2017, the Governor released a letter stating he believed it was legal. After that, Pulaski Co. Prosecuting Attorney Larry Jegley stated it would not affect his decision to prosecute someone charged with a crime related to open carry if that arrest were made by trained police within his jurisdiction. Still we have to be careful.

Open Carry could be forbidden in places where those with a valid permit/license can carry, please continue reading for more.

“No Gun Signs” Have the Force of Law

§ 5-73-306

(19)

(A) Any place at the discretion of the person or entity exercising control over the physical location of the place by placing at each entrance to the place a written notice clearly readable at a distance of not less than ten feet (10') that “carrying a handgun is prohibited”.

(B)

(i) If the place does not have a roadway entrance, there shall be a written notice placed anywhere upon the premises of the place.

(ii) In addition to the requirement of subdivision (19)(B)(i) of this section, there shall be at least one (1) written notice posted within every three (3) acres of a place with no roadway entrance.

(D) Any licensee entering a private home shall notify the occupant that the licensee is carrying a concealed handgun.

(b)

(1) In addition to the places enumerated in this section, the carrying of a concealed handgun may be disallowed in any place in the discretion of the person or entity exercising control over the physical location of such place by the placing of a written notice clearly readable at a distance of not less than ten feet (10') that the "carrying of a handgun is prohibited."

(2) Provided, no sign shall be required for private homes, and any licensee entering a private home shall notify the occupants that he is carrying a concealed handgun.

(c) No license issued pursuant to this subchapter shall authorize the participants in a parade or demonstration
or which a permit is required to carry a concealed handgun. (History. Acts 1995, No. 411, § 2; 1995, No. 419, § 2; 1997, No. 1239, § 2.)

Car/RV Carry Without an Arkansas Concealed Carry Permit

Arkansas Code Annotated § 5-73-120.

Carrying a Weapon

(a) A person commits the offense of carrying a weapon if he or she possesses a handgun, knife, or club on or about his or her person, in a vehicle occupied by him or her, or otherwise readily available for use with a purpose to attempt to unlawfully employ the handgun, knife, or club as a weapon against a person.

(b) As used in this section:

(3) "Journey" means travel beyond the county in which a person lives;

(4) The person is carrying a weapon when upon a journey, unless the journey is through a commercial airport when presenting at the security checkpoint in the airport or is in the person's checked baggage and is not a lawfully declared weapon.

Laws Regarding Parking Lot Storage

§ 5-73-122(a)(3) Carrying a Firearm in Publicly Owned Buildings or Facilities

(C)

(i) If the person has a license to carry a concealed handgun under § 5-73-301 et seq. and is carrying a concealed handgun in his or her motor vehicle or has left the concealed handgun in his or her locked and unattended motor vehicle in a publicly owned and maintained parking lot.

(ii)

(a) As used in this subdivision (a)(3)(C), "parking lot" means a designated area or structure or part of a structure intended for the parking of motor vehicles or a designated drop-off zone for children at school.

(b) "Parking lot" does not include a parking lot owned, maintained, or otherwise controlled by the Department of Correction or Department of Community Correction.

§ 5-73-324. Licensee Rights — Private Employer Parking Lot (Effective 8/1/17)

(a) A private employer shall not prohibit an employee who is a licensee from transporting or storing a legally owned handgun in the employee's private motor vehicle in the private employer's parking lot when:

(1) The handgun:

(A) Is lawfully possessed;

(B) Is stored out of sight inside a locked private motor vehicle in the private employer's parking lot; and

(C)

(i) Is stored inside a locked personal handgun storage container that is designed for the safe storage of a handgun.

(ii) An employee is not required to store the handgun in the personal handgun storage container as required in subdivision (a)(1)(C)(i) of this section until he or she is exiting his or her private motor vehicle; and

(2) The employee has in his or her possession the key to the personal handgun storage container as required by subdivision (a)(1)(C)(i) of this section.

(b) A private employer shall not prohibit or attempt to prevent an employee who is a licensee from entering the parking lot of the private employer's place of business because the employee's private motor vehicle contains a handgun if:

(1) The handgun is kept for lawful purposes;
(2) The handgun is concealed within the employee’s private motor vehicle; and
(3) The employee stores the handgun in his or her motor vehicle in accordance with subdivisions (a)(1)(A)-(C) of this section.

(1) Prohibit a person who is not an employee from storing a handgun in the employee’s motor vehicle in the private employer’s parking lot; and
(2) Prohibit a licensee’s entry onto the private employer’s place of business or in the parking lot because the person's private motor vehicle contains a handgun in the following circumstances:

(A) The parking lot is a prohibited place specifically listed in § 5-73-306;
(B) The parking lot is on the grounds of an owner-occupied single-family detached residence or a tenant-occupied single-family detached residence and the single-family detached residence or tenant-occupied single-family detached residence is being used as a residence;
(C) The private employer reasonably believes that the employee is in illegal possession of the handgun;
(D) The employee is operating a private employer-owned motor vehicle during and in the course of the employee’s duties on behalf of the private employer, except when the employee is required to transport or store a firearm as part of the employee’s duties;
(E) The private motor vehicle is not permitted in the parking lot for reasons unrelated to the employee's transportation, storage, or possession of a handgun;
(F) The employee is the subject of an active or pending employment disciplinary proceeding; or
(G) The employee, at any time after being issued a license to carry a concealed handgun, has been adjudicated mentally incompetent or not guilty in a legal proceeding by reason of mental disease or defect.

(d) This section does not prevent a private employer from prohibiting a person who is not licensed or who fails to transport or store the handgun in accordance with subdivisions (a)(1)(A)-(C) of this section from transporting or storing a handgun in the parking lot or from entering onto the private employer’s place of business or the private employer’s parking lot.

(e) A former employee who possesses a handgun in his or her private motor vehicle under this section is not criminally liable for possessing the handgun in his or her private motor vehicle in his or her former private employer's parking lot while the former employee is physically leaving the private employer's parking lot immediately following his or her termination or other reason for ceasing employment with the former private employer.

Kindly see Arkansas Statutes 16-120-802 & 16-118-113 for additional information.

Must Inform Officer Immediately on Contact By Law

Arkansas Administrative Rules

Dept. of Arkansas State Police

CHAPTER 3. License Possession Requirements
Rule 3.2 Contact With Law Enforcement

(b) In any official contact with law enforcement, if the licensee IS in possession of a handgun, when the officer asks the licensee for identification (driver’s license, or personal information, such as name and date of birth), the licensee shall notify the officer that he or she holds a concealed handgun carry license and that he or she has a handgun in his or her possession.

State Preemption

§ 14-16-504. Regulation by Local Unit of Government

(a) As used in this section, "local unit of government" means a city, town, or county.

(b)

(1)

(A) A local unit of government shall not enact any ordinance or regulation pertaining to, or regulate in any other manner, the ownership, transfer, transportation, carrying, or possession of firearms, ammunition for firearms, or components of firearms, except as otherwise provided in state or federal law.

(B) The provision in subdivision (b)(1)(A) of this section does not prevent the enactment of an ordinance regulating or forbidding the unsafe discharge of a firearm.

(2)

(A) A local unit of government shall not have the authority to bring suit and shall not have the right to recover against any firearm or ammunition manufacturer, trade association, or dealer for damages, abatement, or injunctive relief resulting from or relating to the lawful design, manufacture, marketing, or sale of firearms or ammunition to the public.

(B) The authority to bring any suit and the right to recover against any firearm or ammunition manufacturer, trade association, or dealer for damages, abatement, or injunctive relief shall be reserved exclusively to the State of Arkansas.

(C) However, subdivisions (b)(1)(A) and (B) of this section do not prevent a local unit of government from bringing suit against a firearm or ammunition manufacturer or dealer for breach of contract or warranty as to firearms or ammunition purchased by the local unit of government.

(c)

(1) The governing body of a local unit of government, following the proclamation by the Governor of a state of emergency, is prohibited from enacting an emergency ordinance regulating the transfer, transportation, or carrying of firearms or components of firearms.

(2) A person who has his or her firearm seized in violation of subdivision (c)(1) of this section may bring an action in the circuit court having jurisdiction for the return of the seized firearm. (Acts 1993, No. 1100, §§ 1-3; 1999, No. 951, § 1; 2011, No. 165, § 1)

Laws Regarding Deadly Force

Code of Arkansas

Title 5. Criminal Offenses

Subtitle 1. General Provisions

Chapter 2. Principles of Criminal Responsibility

Subchapter 6. Justification

§ 5-2-601. Definitions

§ 5-2-602. Defense

§ 5-2-603. Execution of public duty

§ 5-2-604. Choice of evils

§ 5-2-605. Use of physical force generally

§ 5-2-606. Use of physical force in defense of a person

§ 5-2-607. Use of deadly physical force in defense of a person

§ 5-2-608. Use of physical force in defense of premises

§ 5-2-609. Use of physical force in defense of property

§ 5-2-610. Use of physical force by law enforcement officers

§ 5-2-611. Use of physical force by private person aiding law enforcement officers

§ 5-2-612. Use of physical force in resisting arrest

§ 5-2-613. Use of physical force to prevent escape from correctional facility

§ 5-2-614. Use of reckless or negligent force

§ 5-2-620. Use of force to defend persons and property within home

§ 5-2-621. Attempting to protect persons during commission of a felony

Airport Carry and Other Misc. Information

Airport Carry: Not Inside the Passenger Terminal and Sterile Area § 5-73-306 (Parking Lot OK)

Training Valid for: 6 Months

Time Period to Establish Residency: “Resident” means an individual who possesses a valid Arkansas driver’s license with an Arkansas address listed thereon and who has established domicile as evidenced by the intent to make Arkansas his or her fixed and permanent home; (If moving to AR from a state, AR has Reciprocity with you can transfer your permit/license.)

Minimum Age for Permit/License: 21 years old; 18 years old if Commissioned/Noncommissioned Officer/Enlisted active duty in the US Armed Forces, National Guard/Reserves, former member US Armed Forces honorably discharged;

Permit/License Info Public Information: NO; § 25-19-105(b)(19)

State Reciprocity/How They Honor Other States Statute: § 5-73-321.

State Fire arm Laws: § 5-73-301 thru § 5-73-321

State Deadly Force Laws: § 5-2-601 thru § 5-2-621

State Knife Laws: § 5-73-120.

Chemical/Electric Weapons Laws: § 5-73-124. (Chem); § 5-73-133 (Elec)

Body Armor Laws: § 5-79-101.

Does Your Permit Cover Other Weapons Besides Firearms? NO; § 5-73-301

Is carrying of a Concealed Firearm with Permit/License for Defensive Purposes Only While Hunting Legal? YES; 07.04 AR Game & Fish Comm. Code Book & the AR G&FC Gen Hunting Regulations

Laws Regarding Chemical Sprays, Stun Guns, and Higher Capacity Magazines

§ 5-73-124 Legal to possess

The only legal to carry is a small container of tear gas or pepper spray to be used for self-defense purposes only, but the capacity of the cartridge or container shall not exceed one hundred fifty cubic centimeters (150cc). As of now, no information regards to Chemical Sprays/Stun Guns/Higher Capacity magazine Laws in Arkansas.

What Does Arkansas Consider A Loaded Firearm?

The law of Arkansas does not define Loaded Firearm because their firearm laws use the word Loaded or Unloaded but doesn’t give a definition.

State Emergency Powers

§ 12-75-114. Governor -- Disaster Emergency Responsibilities

(a) The Governor is responsible for meeting and mitigating, to the maximum extent possible, dangers to the people and property of the state presented or threatened by disasters.

(e) In addition to any other powers conferred upon the Governor by law, the Governor may:

(1) Suspend the provisions of any regulatory statutes prescribing the procedures for conduct of state business, or the orders, rules, or regulations of any state agency, if strict compliance with the provisions of any statute, order, rule, or regulation would in any way prevent, hinder, or delay necessary action in coping with the emergency;

(2) Utilize all available resources of the state government and of each political subdivision of the state as reasonably necessary to cope with the disaster emergency;

(3) Transfer the direction, personnel, or functions of state departments and agencies or units of state departments and agencies for the purpose of performing or facilitating emergency management;

(4) Subject to any applicable requirements for compensation under § 12-75-124, commandeer or utilize any private property if he or she finds this necessary to cope with the disaster emergency;

(5) Direct and compel the evacuation of all or part of the population from any stricken or threatened area within the state if the Governor deems this action necessary for the preservation of life or other disaster mitigation, response, or recovery;

(6) Prescribe routes, modes of transportation, and destinations in connection with evacuation;

(7) Control ingress and egress to and from a disaster area, the movement of persons within the area, and the occupancy of premises therein;

(8) Suspend or limit the sale, dispensing, or transportation of alcoholic beverages, explosives, and combustibles; and

(9) Make provision for the availability and use of temporary emergency housing.

HISTORY: Acts 1973, No. 511, § 8; 1985, No. 629, § 2; A.S.A. 1947, § 11-1941; Acts 1993, No. 1049, § 3; 1995, No. 116, § 2; 1999, No. 449, § 7; 1999, No. 646, §§ 20, 21; 2001, No. 1278, § 4; 2007, No. 1290, § 86; 2009, No. 165, §§ 38, 39. 2013, No. 547, § 1.

Take note that the Federal Law can apply if the state is receiving monetary and/or other assistance from the Federal Government. See US Code 42-5207 for Federal Law as it applies to States of Emergencies. Everyone must read the entire code on Emergency Powers for this state by following the link to the state code.

§ 14-16-504. Regulation by local unit of government

(a) As used in this section, "local unit of government" means a city, town, or county.

(b) (1) (A) A local unit of government shall not enact any ordinance or regulation pertaining to, or regulate in any other manner, the ownership, transfer, transportation, carrying, or possession of firearms, ammunition for firearms, or components of firearms, except as otherwise provided in state or federal law.

(c)

(2) A person who has his or her firearm seized in violation of subdivision (c)(1) of this section may bring an action in the circuit court having jurisdiction for the return of the seized firearm. (HISTORY: Acts 1993, No. 1100, §§ 1-3; 1999, No. 951, § 1; 2011, No. 165, § 1.)

Minimum Age for Possessing and Transporting of Handguns

Arkansas: 18 Years Old

Title 5: Chapter 73 Subtitle 6 § 5-73-109

The minimum age for possessing and transporting a handgun unloaded and secured in a vehicle without any type of permit/license to carry firearms is at least 18 years old. Take note that in some states, they can have very restrictive laws on possessing and transporting handguns in that you can only possess and transport a handgun to and from a Shooting Range, Gun Shop, property you own or other places you can legally possess a handgun. Some states do not have this restriction.