North Carolina 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

North Carolina Honors All Other States Permit/Licenses.

§ 14-415.24. Reciprocity; out-of-state handgun permits

(a) A valid concealed handgun permit or license issued by another state is valid in North Carolina.

(b) Repealed by Session Laws 2011-268, s. 22(a), effective December 1, 2011.

(c) Every 12 months after the effective date of this subsection, the Department of Justice shall make written inquiry of the concealed handgun permitting authorities in each other state as to:

(i) whether a North Carolina resident may carry a concealed handgun in their state based upon having a valid North Carolina concealed handgun permit and

(ii) whether a North Carolina resident may apply for a concealed handgun permit in that state based upon having a valid North Carolina concealed handgun permit. The Department of Justice shall attempt to secure from each state permission for North Carolina residents who hold a valid North Carolina concealed handgun permit to carry a concealed handgun in that state, either on the basis of the North Carolina permit or on the basis that the North Carolina permit is sufficient to permit the issuance of a similar license or permit by the other state.

How to Apply for a North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit

In order to acquire a North Carolina permit, an individual must apply to the sheriff's office in the county in which he/she resides. As part of the application process, the applicant must accomplish the following:

1. Complete an application, under oath, on a form provided by the sheriff's office;
2. Pay a non-refundable fee of $80.00; and
3. Allow the sheriff’s office to take two (2) full sets of fingerprints, which may cost up to $10.00;
4. Provide an original certificate of completion of an approved handgun safety course; and
5. Provide a release authorizing disclosure to the sheriff of any record concerning the applicant’s mental health or capacity. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-415.13

Any person or entity who is given an original or photocopied release form as described in N.C.G.S. § 14-415.13(a)(5), shall promptly disclose to the sheriff, any records concerning the mental health or capacity of the applicant who signed the form and authorized the release of the records. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-415.14(c)

Permit/License is valid for 5 years.
Issue or deny your application within 45 days after receipt of the items listed in G.S. 14-415.13.

A NICS Check is mandatory on all New/Renewal Applications.

Kindly check your local Sheriff’s website as some are taking applications online.

How to Obtain A Non-Resident North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit

North Carolina does not issue Permit/Licenses to Non-Residents. Active Military may be able to apply for a permit/license to carry in North Carolina. Check with the local Sheriff and your Commanding Officer. MCB Camp Lejeune Base Order 5500.1G Pending H is an amendment to the Camp Lejeune Rules & Regulations that will lay out the routing of paperwork for those wishing to obtain a permit to buy a firearm and/or obtain a CCW in NC. A unit’s commanding officer can endorse a letter for a service member which serves as a background check and residency letter, providing all state and Onslow County requirements have been met. There is other criteria that must be met.

If you keep your state of record (Not a resident of NC) and have a permit/license issued by any other state you can carry in NC with it as North Carolina now honors all other states permit/licenses. You must also follow all the Rules/Regulations concerning personal firearms as set forth by your Duty Station. North Carolina also gives a grace period on the expiration of their Permit/License to those who are deployed and not present when their Permit/License expires.

Places You Can Not Carry Even With a North California Concealed Carry Permit

Schools, public or private, all levels including universities. A curricular or extracurricular activity sponsored by a school. This also applies to all property owned by any school. § 14-269.2
State Capitol Building, the Executive Mansion, the Western Residence of the Governor, or on the grounds of any of these buildings, and any building housing any court of the General Court of Justice. § 14-269.4
State office buildings or any portion of a building in which there’re State offices. § 14-415.11(c)
Law Enforcement or Correctional Facilities. § 14-415.11(c)
Events Occurring in Public: It shall be unlawful for any person participating in, affiliated with, or present as a spectator at any picket line, or demonstration upon any private health care facility or upon any public place owned or under the control of the State or any of its political subdivisions to willfully or intentionally possess or have immediate access to any dangerous weapon. § 14-277.2
On any private premises where notice that carrying a concealed handgun is prohibited by the posting of a conspicuous notice or statement by the person in legal possession or control of the premises. § 14-415.11(c)

§ 14-269.2 & § 14-269.4 (Schools K Thru College and Capitol Building Etc as Listed Above)

The provisions of this section shall not apply to a person who has a concealed handgun permit that is valid under Article 54B of this Chapter, or who is exempt from obtaining a permit pursuant to that Article, who has a handgun in a closed compartment or container within the person's locked vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to the person's vehicle. A person may unlock the vehicle to enter or exit the vehicle provided the firearm remains in the closed compartment at all times and the vehicle is locked immediately following the entrance or exit.

The Attorney General of North Carolina is stating that a Private School can prohibit someone from keeping a firearm in their vehicle in their parking areas. Check here. Additional Information on Places Off Limits from the NC AG go here and here.

§ 106-503.2. Regulation of firearms at State Fair

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Commissioner of Agriculture is authorized to prohibit the carrying of firearms in any manner on the State Fairgrounds during the period of time each year that the State Fair is conducted.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section, any prohibition under this section shall not apply to the following persons:

(1) Any person exempted by G.S. 14-269(b)(1), (2), (3), (4), or (5).
(2) Any person who has a concealed handgun permit that is valid under Article 54B of this Chapter [Chapter 14 of the General Statutes], or who is exempt from obtaining a permit pursuant to that Article, who has a handgun in a closed compartment or container within the person's locked vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to the person's vehicle. A person may unlock the vehicle to
enter or exit the vehicle provided the firearm remains in the closed compartment at all times and the vehicle is locked immediately following the entrance or exit. (2015-195, s. 4(a).)

§ 14-415.23. Statewide Uniformity

(a) It is the intent of the General Assembly to prescribe a uniform system for the regulation of legally carrying a concealed handgun. To insure uniformity, no political subdivisions, boards, or agencies of the State nor any county, city, municipality, municipal corporation, town, township, village, nor any department or agency thereof, may enact ordinances, rules, or regulations concerning legally carrying a concealed handgun. A unit of local government may adopt an ordinance to permit the posting of a prohibition against carrying a concealed handgun, in accordance with G.S. 14-415.11(c), on local government buildings and their appurtenant premises.

(b) A unit of local government may adopt an ordinance to prohibit, by posting, the carrying of a concealed handgun on municipal and county recreational facilities that are specifically identified by the unit of local government. If a unit of local government adopts such an ordinance with regard to recreational facilities, then the concealed handgun permittee may, nevertheless, secure the handgun in a locked vehicle within the trunk, glove box, or other enclosed compartment or area within or on the motor vehicle.

(1) An athletic field, including any appurtenant facilities such as restrooms, during an organized athletic event if the field had been scheduled for use with the municipality or county office responsible for operation of the park or recreational area.
(2) A swimming pool, including any appurtenant facilities used for dressing, storage of personal items, or other uses relating to the swimming pool.
(3) A facility used for athletic events, including, but not limited to, a gymnasium.

(d) For the purposes of this section, the term "recreational facilities" does not include any greenway, designated biking or walking path, an area that is customarily used as a walkway or bike path although not specifically designated for such use, open areas or fields where athletic events may occur unless the area qualifies as an "athletic field" pursuant to subdivision (1) of subsection (c) of this section, and any other area that is not specifically described in subsection (c) of this section."

§ 14-415.27. Expanded Permit Scope Certain Persons

Notwithstanding G.S. 14-415.11(c), any of the following persons who has a concealed handgun permit issued pursuant to this Article or that is considered valid under G.S. 14-415.24 is not subject to the area prohibitions set out in G.S. 14-415.11(c) and may carry a concealed handgun in the areas listed in G.S. 14-415.11(c) unless otherwise prohibited by federal law:

(1) A district attorney.
(2) An assistant district attorney.
(3) An investigator employed by the office of a district attorney.
(4) A North Carolina district or superior court judge.
(5) A magistrate.
(6) A person who is elected and serving as a clerk of court.
(7) A person who is elected and serving as a register of deeds.

POSSESSION OF FIREARMS ON GAME LANDS

On State-owned game lands, and all other lands unless prohibited by the landowner, persons may lawfully carry any firearm openly that they are otherwise lawfully entitled to possess, and may also carry a concealed handgun if they possess a current and valid concealed handgun permit issued to them. However, persons may not hunt with any firearm being carried unless such firearm is authorized as a lawful method of take for that open season. The exempted game lands where concealed carry is prohibited are:

Buckhorn
Harris
Sutton Lake
Mayo
Hyco
Lee
Chatham
Pee Dee, area north of U.S. 74
Butner-Falls
Jordan
Vance
Kerr Scott
Dupont
Bladen Lakes
Wayne Bailey-Caswell, area north of U.S. 158 and east of N.C. 119

From: N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission

Firearms on Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA Property)

4. Firearms and Weapons - TVA campgrounds may receive use by hunters during hunting season. While firearms and weapons are generally prohibited, possession of firearms and other weapons associated with in-season hunting excursions are permissible if they are unloaded and properly cased. Possession of firearms at TVA public ramps, associated roads, and parking areas are allowed if the possession complies with the law of the state where the boat ramp is located and is not otherwise prohibited by law.

In Day Use Areas, Campgrounds, and other developed recreational TVA lands are still off limits. TVA lands where Hunting is presently allowed, Undeveloped Shorelines, Boat Ramps, Boat Ramp Parking Areas and Associated Roads for those areas is where carry will be allowed.

“No Gun Signs” Have the Force of Law

§ 14-415.11. Permit to Carry Concealed Handgun; Scope of Permit

(c) Except as provided in G.S. 14-415.27, a permit does not authorize a person to carry a concealed handgun in any of the following:

(8) On any private premises where notice that carrying a concealed handgun is prohibited by the posting of a conspicuous notice or statement by the person in legal possession or control of the premises.

§ 14-415.21. Violations of This Article Punishable As an Infraction

(a) A person who has been issued a valid permit who is found to be carrying a concealed handgun without the permit in the person's possession or who fails to disclose to any law enforcement officer that the person holds a valid permit and is carrying a concealed handgun, as required by G.S. 14-415.11, shall be guilty of an infraction and shall be punished in accordance with G.S. 14-3.1. Any person who has been issued a valid permit who is found to be carrying a concealed handgun in violation of G.S. 14-415.11(c)(8) shall be guilty of an infraction and may be required to pay a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00). In lieu of paying a fine the person may surrender the permit.

(a1) A person who has been issued a valid permit who is found to be carrying a concealed handgun in violation of subsection (c2) of G.S. 14-415.11 shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

(b) A person who violates the provisions of this Article other than as set forth in subsection (a) or (a1) of this section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Laws Regarding Parking Lot Storage

Parking Lot Storage Laws are very specific either to place or person who is in control of the firearm. NC does not have a blanket Parking Lot Storage law like other states.

§ 14-269. Carrying Concealed Weapons

(4c) Detention personnel or correctional officers employed by the State or a unit of local government who park a vehicle in a space that is authorized for their use in the course of their duties may transport a firearm to the parking space and store that firearm in the vehicle parked in the parking space, provided that:

(i) the firearm is in a closed compartment or container within the locked vehicle, or

(ii) the firearm is in a locked container securely affixed to the vehicle.

§ 14-269.4. Weapons on Certain State Property and in Courthouses

It shall be unlawful for any person to possess, or carry, whether openly or concealed, any deadly weapon, not used solely for instructional or officially sanctioned ceremonial purposes in the State Capitol Building, the Executive Mansion, the Western Residence of the Governor, or on the grounds of any of these buildings, and in any building housing any court of the General Court of Justice. If a court is housed in a building containing nonpublic uses in addition to the court, then this prohibition shall apply only to that portion of the building used for court purposes while the building is being used for court purposes.

This section shall not apply to any of the following:

(6) A person with a permit issued in accordance with Article 54B of this Chapter or considered valid under G.S. 14-415.24 who has a firearm in a closed compartment or container within the person's locked vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to the person's vehicle. A person may unlock the vehicle to enter or exit the vehicle provided the firearm remains in the closed compartment at all times and the vehicle is locked immediately following the entrance or exit. Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor."

§ 120-32.1. Use and Maintenance of Buildings and Grounds

(c1) No rule adopted under this section shall prohibit the transportation or storage of a firearm in a closed compartment or container within a person's locked vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to a person's vehicle. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a legislator or legislative employee who parks a vehicle in a State-owned parking space that is leased or assigned to that legislator or legislative employee may transport a firearm to the parking space and store that firearm in the vehicle parked in the parking space, provided that:

(i) the firearm is in a closed compartment or container within the legislator's or legislative employee's locked vehicle, or
(ii) the firearm is in a locked container securely affixed to the legislator or legislative employee's vehicle."’

§ 14-269.2 Schools, Public or Private, All Levels Including Universities

(k) The provisions of this section shall not apply to a person who has a concealed handgun permit that is valid under Article 54B of this Chapter, or who is exempt from obtaining a permit pursuant to that Article, if any of the following conditions are met:

(1) The person has a handgun in a closed compartment or container within the person's locked vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to the person's vehicle and only unlocks the vehicle to enter or exit the vehicle while the firearm remains in the closed compartment at all times and immediately locks the vehicle following the entrance or exit.

(2) The person has a handgun concealed on the person and the person remains in the locked vehicle and only unlocks the vehicle to allow the entrance or exit 49 of another person.

(3) The person is within a locked vehicle and removes the handgun from 1 concealment only for the amount of time reasonably necessary to do either of the following:

a. Move the handgun from concealment on the person to a closed compartment or container within the vehicle.
b. Move the handgun from within a closed compartment or container within the vehicle to concealment on the person.

In North Carolina, If you have a valid Permit/License to Carry you can store your firearm in your vehicle as described in sec (k) above. The Attorney General of North Carolina is stating that a Private School can prohibit someone from keeping a firearm in their vehicle in their parking areas. See here.

Must Inform Officer Immediately on Contact By Law

§ 14-415.21. Violations of this Article punishable as an infraction

(a1) A person who has been issued a valid permit who is found to be carrying a concealed handgun in violation of subsection (c2) of G.S. 14-415.11 shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

(b) A person who violates the provisions of this Article other than as set forth in subsection (a) or (a1) of this section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor."

Carry In State Parks//WMA/Road Side Rest Areas & St. /Nat. Forests

Carry is Allowed in these Areas:

State Parks: YES; § 14-415.11. (c1) (Must be Concealed)
State/National Forests YES
State Owned Hunting & Fishing Reservation: YES; § 14-415.11. (c3)
Road Side Rest Areas: YES; § 14-415.11. (c3)

Car/RV Carry Without a North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit

Handguns in Vehicles From the NC DPS

It is unlawful to carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle unless the person has a valid concealed carry permit.
A person who is not a convicted felon may carry a handgun if not concealed.
A handgun is concealed in a vehicle if it cannot be readily seen by a person approaching and if it is readily accessible. A handgun under the front seat or in an unlocked glove box or console is illegal. A handgun openly displayed or in a locked glove box, locked console, or in the trunk is lawful.

Transporting Weapons
Roy Cooper Attorney General

Given this general prohibition of carrying concealed weapons, individuals must be ever vigilant to ensure that their particular situation cannot be construed as concealing a weapon either on or about them without being properly authorized to do so with a valid North Carolina concealed handgun permit. Therefore, the person's accessibility to the weapon is of prime importance. It is for these reasons, that when transporting a weapon in a vehicle, even greater care must be exercised to ensure that the weapon is not concealed and within the ready access to an occupant of the vehicle. North Carolina law does not specifically address how to transport a weapon in an automobile. Therefore, the central question becomes: when is the weapon concealed and readily accessible to an occupant of the automobile? Obviously, a weapon would be concealed and readily accessible, and therefore in violation of our law, if it were placed in such areas of a vehicle as, under the seat of the automobile; in a bag in the back seat; in an unlocked glove compartment; or in some other manner is covered or hidden within the easy reach of an occupant of the vehicle. A previous opinion from this office was that a weapon would not be concealed if it were placed in a locked glove compartment, unless the key to the glove compartment was in the lock and the person was in close proximity and had ready access to it. A concern with this mode of transportation however is that it is quite susceptible to different interpretations, based on the various factors involved. Therefore, this may not be the most legally defensible method of transporting a weapon, and is discouraged.

While a weapon carried openly in an automobile would not be concealed, there are other problems attendant to this method of carrying a weapon. The principal drawback, of course, is in the event of a person being stopped by a law enforcement official, the officer may not readily know that person's purpose and intent for carrying a weapon. As such, it is imperative that a person immediately notify an officer of the presence of any weapon in the automobile, for the officer's and the vehicle's occupants' safety. Another obvious drawback is that a valuable weapon may be in plain view for potential thieves to see. The prohibition to carrying concealed weapons applies not only to handguns and other weapons commonly thought of as being easily hidden, but also to "long guns" as well. Therefore, shotguns and rifles concealed behind the seat of pickup trucks, and elsewhere in other vehicles, could similarly violate our law.

As to those vehicles with no easily discernible trunk area, for example vans, the question turns on a factual determination of when the weapon is within ready and easy access to an occupant of the vehicle. If the weapon is concealed near, in close proximity to, or within the convenient control and access of an occupant, which would allow him to use the weapon quickly, then a fair probability exists that the occupant is in violation of the law. Therefore, care must be exercised by any occupant of a vehicle to ensure that the weapons are securely locked away in as remote an area as possible in relation to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. It is important to emphasize that these prohibitions apply to passengers, as well as the driver of a vehicle.

Source: NC Firearms Laws By AG

In North Carolina, you can carry the firearm loaded and in your vehicle without any type of permit/license as long as it is visible. The law says you can’t conceal it. So keep it in the open and you are legal.

Open Carry (Without a Valid Permit/License)

N.C. Regulated Firearms Carry Areas for Private Citizens

Open Carry is legal but local governments have some limited authority to restrict firearms in some locations. (See law quotes below. I am not sure if or how these statutes would apply) Places as listed in the “Places Off Limits” above apply to those who open carry. See the “RV/Car Carry Without a Permit” section for carrying in a vehicle.

§ 160A-189. Firearms. A city may by ordinance regulate, restrict, or prohibit the discharge of firearms at any time or place within the city except when used in defense of person or property or pursuant to lawful directions of law-enforcement officers, and may regulate the display of firearms on the streets, sidewalks, alleys, or other public property. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit a city's authority to take action under Article 1A of Chapter 166A of the General Statutes.

§ 153A-129. Firearms.

(a) Except as provided in this section, a county may by ordinance regulate, restrict, or prohibit the discharge of firearms at any time or place except in any of the following instances:

(1) When used to take birds or animals pursuant to Chapter 113, Subchapter IV.
(2) When used in defense of person or property.
(3) When used pursuant to lawful directions of law-enforcement officers.

(b) A county may by ordinance prohibit hunting on Sunday as allowed under G.S. 103-2, provided the ordinance complies with all of the following:

(1) The ordinance shall be applicable from January 1 until December 31 of any year of effectiveness.
(2) The ordinance shall allow for individuals hunting in an adjacent county with no restriction on Sunday hunting to retrieve any animal lawfully shot from the adjacent county.
(3) The ordinance shall be applicable to the entire county.

(d) This section does not limit a county's authority to take action under Article 1A of Chapter 166A of the General Statutes.

Some Cities/Counties have/may have ordinances against open carry. It is up to you to know the local laws on open carry.

The state preempts all firearm laws in the state and local authorities can’t have Laws/Ordinances except for those expressly given to them by the legislature. § 14-409.40 & §14-415.23 as listed in the “Preemption Section” state places local governments can make off limits. Remember that if you enter any property and the owner/responsible person ask you to leave you must leave. Failure to leave can result in Trespass Charges. The Minimum age for Open Carry is 18.

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

State Preemption

§ 14-409.40. Statewide Uniformity of Local Regulation. (General Law)

(a) It is declared by the General Assembly that the regulation of firearms is properly an issue of general, statewide concern, and that the entire field of regulation of firearms is preempted from regulation by local governments except as provided by this section.

(a1) The General Assembly further declares that the lawful design, marketing, manufacture, distribution, sale, or transfer of firearms or ammunition to the public is not an unreasonably dangerous activity and does not constitute a nuisance per se and furthermore, that it is the unlawful use of firearms and ammunition, rather than their lawful design, marketing, manufacture, distribution, sale, or transfer that is the proximate cause of injuries arising from their unlawful use. This subsection applies only to causes of action brought under subsection (g) of this section.

(b) Unless otherwise permitted by statute, no county or municipality, by ordinance, resolution, or other enactment, shall regulate in any manner the possession, ownership, storage, transfer, sale, purchase, licensing, or registration of firearms, firearms ammunition, components of firearms, dealers in firearms, or dealers in handgun components or parts.

(c) Notwithstanding subsection (b) of this section, a county or municipality, by zoning or other ordinance, may regulate or prohibit the sale of firearms at a location only if there is a lawful, general, similar regulation or prohibition of commercial activities at that location. Nothing in this subsection shall restrict the right of a county or municipality to adopt a general zoning plan that prohibits any commercial activity within a fixed distance of a school or other educational institution except with a special use permit issued for a commercial activity found not to pose a danger to the health, safety, or general welfare of persons attending the school or educational institution within the fixed distance.

(d) No county or municipality, by zoning or other ordinance, shall regulate in any manner firearms shows with regulations more stringent than those applying to shows of other types of items.

(e) A county or municipality may regulate the transport, carrying, or possession of firearms by employees of the local unit of government in the course of their employment with that local unit of government.

(f) Nothing contained in this section prohibits municipalities or counties from application of their authority under G.S. 153A-129, 160A-189, 14-269, 14-269.2, 14-269.3, 14-269.4, 14-277.2, 14-415.11, 14-415.23, including prohibiting the possession of firearms in public-owned buildings, on the grounds or parking areas of those buildings, or in public parks or recreation areas, except nothing in this subsection shall prohibit a person from storing a firearm within a motor vehicle while the vehicle is on these grounds or areas. Nothing contained in this section prohibits municipalities or counties from exercising powers provided by law in declared states of emergency under Article 36A of this Chapter.

(g) The authority to bring suit and the right to recover against any firearms or ammunition marketer, manufacturer, distributor, dealer, seller, or trade association by or on behalf of any governmental unit, created by or pursuant to an act of the General Assembly or the Constitution, or any department, agency, or authority thereof, for damages, abatement, injunctive relief, or any other remedy resulting from or relating to the lawful design, marketing, manufacture, distribution, sale, or transfer of firearms or ammunition to the public is reserved exclusively to the State. Any action brought by the State pursuant to this section shall be brought by the Attorney General on behalf of the State. This section shall not prohibit a political subdivision or local governmental unit from bringing an action against a firearms or ammunition marketer, manufacturer, distributor, dealer, seller, or trade association for breach of contract or warranty for defect of materials or workmanship as to firearms or ammunition purchased by the political subdivision or local governmental unit.

(h) A person adversely affected by any ordinance, rule, or regulation promulgated or caused to be enforced by any county or municipality in violation of this section may bring an action for declaratory and injunctive relief and for actual damages arising from the violation. The court shall award the prevailing party in an action brought under this subsection reasonable attorneys' fees and court costs as authorized by law."

§ 14-415.23. Statewide Uniformity. (CCW Specific)

(a) It is the intent of the General Assembly to prescribe a uniform system for the regulation of legally carrying a concealed handgun. To ensure uniformity, no political subdivisions, boards, or agencies of the State nor any county, city, municipality, municipal corporation, town, township, village, nor any department or agency thereof, may enact ordinances, rules, or regulations concerning legally carrying a concealed handgun.

(b) A unit of local government may adopt an ordinance to permit the posting of a prohibition against carrying a concealed handgun, in accordance with G.S. 14-415.11(c), on local government and their appurtenant premises. A unit of local government may adopt an ordinance to prohibit, by posting, the carrying of a concealed handgun on municipal and county recreational facilities that are specifically identified by the unit of local government. If a unit of local government adopts such an ordinance with regard to recreational facilities, then the concealed handgun permittee may, nevertheless, secure the handgun in a locked vehicle within the trunk, glove box, or other enclosed compartment or area within or on the motor vehicle. For purposes of this section, the term "recreational facilities" includes only the following: a playground, an athletic field, a swimming pool, and an athletic facility."

Laws Regarding Deadly Force

§ 14-51.2. Home, Workplace, and Motor Vehicle Protection; Presumption of Fear of Death or Serious Bodily Harm.
§ 14-51.3. Use of Force in Defense of Person; Relief From Criminal or Civil Liability.
§ 14-51.4. Justification for Defensive Force not Available.

May Carry in Restaurants that serve Alcohol

In North Carolina, carry in restaurant that serve Alcohol is allowed according to § 14-269.3.

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

For Stun Devices/Electric Weapons:

§ 14-269 Carrying Concealed Weapons
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person willfully and intentionally to carry concealed about his or her person any bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slung shot, loaded cane, metallic knuckles, razor, shuriken, stun gun, or other deadly weapon of like kind, except when the person is on the person's own premises.

Kindly note that in North Carolina it states Concealed. Open Carry of a Stun Gun is most likely legal.

§ 14-269.2 Weapons on Campus or Other Educational Property

(e) It shall be a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to cause, encourage, or aid a minor who is less than 18 years old to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, any BB gun, stun gun, air rifle, air pistol, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slungshot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades (except solely for personal shaving), firework, or any sharp-pointed or edged instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips and tools used solely for preparation of food, instruction, and maintenance, on educational property.

For Chemical Sprays:

§ 14-401.6. Possession and use of self-defense sprays is lawful for non felons so long as the device does not exceed 150 cubic centimeters (150cc).

LEOSA State Information

LEOSA NC Law on Certification

NC AG & LEOSA Info On Places Off Limits in NC

LEOSA Certification

Additional Information Below:

B. Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004

Current, out-of-state sworn law enforcement officers may carry concealed handguns in certain areas of North Carolina, if the officer meets all the criteria set forth under the federal law known as the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004 (18 U.S.C. 926B). A qualified officer would be one who is an employee of a governmental agency; is authorized by law to enforce criminal laws with the
of alcohol or drugs; and is not prohibited by federal law from receiving a firearm. The officer must carry valid photographic identification as an officer. While carrying in North Carolina, the out-of-state officer may not carry in either public or private areas where the possession of firearms is prohibited.

Also, pursuant to the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004 (18 U.S.C. 926B), certain qualified retired officers may be eligible to carry concealed handguns in North Carolina. A qualified retired officer is one who retired in good standing from a public agency as a law enforcement officer; had statutory powers of arrest; had an aggregate of fifteen (15) years or more service (unless retired due to a service-connected disability); qualified annually with their handgun; is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and is not prohibited by federal law from receiving a firearm. While carrying in North Carolina, the qualified retired officer may not carry in either public or private areas where the possession of firearms is prohibited. A person meeting the definition of a qualified retired law enforcement officer may carry a concealed handgun in North Carolina, if they are carrying photographic credentials identifying them as a retired qualified law enforcement officer, and the person has qualified with their handgun annually, either with the agency from which they retired, or as certified by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission (the Commission). To gain such qualification from the Commission, the qualified retired officer must make application to the Commission by submitting a verification of firearms qualification, conducted by a firearms instructor who is certified by the Commission as a Law Enforcement Firearms Instructor. The qualified retired officer must also submit a copy of their photographic identification showing their retired status, and other information required by the Commission. A person making any intentional misrepresentation on this form is guilty of a Class 2 Misdemeanor and may have their firearms qualification revoked. This status does not exempt the person from any other registration or training requirements necessary in the private protective services profession. Forms for this process may be obtained from the Criminal Justice Commission. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-415.26

Airport Carry and Other Misc. Information

Airport Carry: No Carry on any real property at Charlotte-Douglas Intl., Charlotte Ordinance Sec. 15-14 State Law § 14-409.40(f)

Overrides Local by Allowing for the storage in vehicles.

Training Valid for: No set time period

Time Period to Establish Residency: 30 Days

Minimum Age for Permit/License: 21 Years Old

Permit/License Info Public Information: NO

State Reciprocity/How They Honor Other States Statute: § 14-415.24

State Fire arm Laws: § 14-415-10 thru 14-415-24 & § 14-269 thru 14-277.2

State Deadly Force Laws: § 14-51.1 thru 14-51.4

State Knife Laws: § 14-269(d) & § 14-269.2(d)

Chemical/Electric Weapons Laws: § 14-269 & § 14-401.6

Body Armor Laws: No laws found

Does Your Permit Cover Other Weapons Besides Firearms? NO

Is Carrying of a Concealed Firearm with Permit/License for Defensive Purposes Only While Hunting Legal? YES

What Does NC Consider A Loaded Firearm?

North Carolina law does not define Loaded. Their firearm laws us the word Loaded or Unloaded but doesn’t give a definition.

State Emergency Powers

§ 166A-19.30. Additional Powers of the Governor During State of Emergency

(c) In addition to any other powers conferred upon the Governor by law, during a gubernatorially or legislatively declared state of emergency, if the Governor determines that local control of the emergency is insufficient to assure adequate protection for lives and property because:

(i) needed control cannot be imposed locally because local authorities responsible for preservation of the public peace have not enacted appropriate ordinances or issued appropriate declarations as authorized by G.S. 166A-19.31;

(ii) local authorities have not taken implementing steps under such ordinances or declarations, if enacted or declared, for effectual control of the emergency that has arisen;

(iii) the area in which the emergency exists has spread across local jurisdictional boundaries, and the legal control measures of the jurisdictions are conflicting or uncoordinated to the extent that efforts to protect life and property are, or unquestionably will be, severely hampered; or

(iv) the scale of the emergency is so great that it exceeds the capability of local authorities to cope with it, the Governor has the following powers:

(1) To impose by declaration prohibitions and restrictions in the emergency area. These prohibitions and restrictions may, in the Governor's discretion, as appropriate to deal with the emergency, impose any of the types of prohibitions and restrictions enumerated in G.S. 166A-19.31(b), and may amend or rescind any prohibitions and restrictions imposed by local authorities. Prohibitions and restrictions imposed pursuant to this subdivision shall take effect in accordance with the provisions of G.S. 166A-19.31(d) and shall expire upon the earliest occurrence of either of the following:

(i) the prohibition or restriction is terminated by the Governor or

(ii) the state of emergency is terminated.

The Governor in North Carolina can only put in place restrictions listed in (b) Below.

§ 166A-19.31. Power of Municipalities and Counties to Enact Ordinances To Deal With States of Emergency

(a) Authority to Enact Prohibitions and Restrictions. - The governing body of any municipality or county may enact ordinances designed to permit the imposition of prohibitions and restrictions within the emergency area during a state of emergency declared pursuant to G.S. 166A-19.22. Authority to impose by declaration prohibitions and restrictions under this section, and to impose those prohibitions and restrictions at a particular time as appropriate, may be delegated by ordinance to the mayor of a municipality or to the chair of the board of county commissioners of a county.

(b) Type of Prohibitions and Restrictions Authorized. - The ordinances authorized by this section may permit prohibitions and restrictions:

(1) Of movements of people in public places, including imposing a curfew; directing and compelling the voluntary or mandatory evacuation of all or part of the population from any stricken or threatened area within the governing body's jurisdiction; prescribing routes, modes of transportation, and destinations in connection with evacuation; and controlling ingress and egress of an emergency area, and the movement of persons within the area.

(2) Of the operation of offices, business establishments, and other places to or from which people may travel or at which they may congregate.

(3) Upon the possession, transportation, sale, purchase, and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

(4) Upon the possession, transportation, sale, purchase, storage, and use of gasoline, and dangerous weapons and substances, except that this subdivision does not authorize prohibitions or restrictions on lawfully possessed firearms or ammunition. As used in this subdivision, the term "dangerous weapons and substances" has the same meaning as it does under G.S. 14-288.1. As used in this subdivision, the term "firearm" has the same meaning as it does under G.S. 14-409.39(2).

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. The state quoted code may also not be all of the law on Emergency Powers held by the state. You should read the entire code on Emergency Powers etc for this state by following the link to the state code.

Minimum Age for Possessing and Transporting of Handguns

North Carolina: 18 Years Old

§ 14‑269.7 This is the minimum age for possessing and transporting a handgun unloaded and secured in a vehicle without any type of permit/license to carry firearms.

In some states, Possession and Transportation can be very restrictive 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.