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If you’re interested in carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Arizona, or perhaps you’re traveling to the state and want to understand how your home state’s permit may fare in the Grand Canyon State, this comprehensive guide is your go-to resource. In this article, we delve deep into Arizona’s gun laws, including concealed carry without a permit, open carry laws, use of force statutes, and the much-discussed reciprocity arrangements Arizona has with other states.
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that Arizona is a shall-issue, permitless carry state. This means that the Department of Public Safety issues concealed weapons permits, but you don’t necessarily need one to carry a concealed weapon. Specifically, anyone at least 21 years old who can legally possess a firearm may concealed carry a firearm without needing a permit. This is significant because it sets Arizona apart from many other states that require a permit for concealed carry.
In Arizona, purchasing a handgun comes with its own set of rules and regulations. The minimum age to buy a handgun from a federally licensed dealer is 21, whereas you only need to be 18 to purchase from a private individual. Unlike some states, Arizona does not require a permit, background check, or firearms registration for handgun purchases from private sellers. If you’re purchasing from a licensed dealer, however, a federal background check will be mandatory. Arizona does not have a waiting period for handgun purchases, so once the federal background check is cleared—usually an instantaneous process but it can take up to three days if there’s a delay—you’re free to proceed with the purchase. Private sales are allowed, but the seller must ensure the buyer is legally eligible to own a handgun. Being familiar with these nuances is essential for anyone interested in buying a handgun in Arizona, as it helps ensure responsible and legal firearm ownership.
In Arizona, the laws for purchasing rifles differ slightly from those for handguns. The minimum age for buying a rifle from a federally licensed dealer is 18, compared to 21 for handguns. No state permit is required for purchasing a rifle, but if you’re buying from a licensed dealer, a federal background check will be conducted. There’s no mandatory waiting period for purchasing rifles in Arizona; once the background check is cleared, which can take up to three days in cases of delay, the transaction can proceed. Arizona does not impose any additional state-specific restrictions on the types of rifles you can purchase, beyond federal limitations. Private sales of rifles are allowed without requiring a background check, but it’s illegal to knowingly sell to someone prohibited from owning a firearm under federal law. Understanding Arizona’s distinct regulations for rifle purchases is crucial for responsible firearm ownership.
Arizona also allows open carry for any person at least 18 years old and who can legally possess a firearm. However, certain areas, such as schools and liquor stores that have posted “no weapons” signs, are off-limits.
For gun enthusiasts and individuals concerned about personal safety, Arizona offers relatively relaxed laws on firearm carrying. However, knowing the specifics for various locations is essential for responsible gun ownership. Let’s dive into the nuances.
In the Grand Canyon State, you’re allowed to carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle without a permit if you’re at least 21 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm. For those under 21, the firearm must be in plain view from the outside of the vehicle.
Arizona law permits the legal storing of firearms in a vehicle’s case, holster, scabbard, pack, or luggage. This can be within the vehicle itself or in a storage compartment, trunk, map pocket, or glove compartment. Employers are generally not allowed to prohibit employees from storing firearms in their locked, privately-owned vehicles, provided the firearms are not visible from the outside.
Carrying a concealed firearm is allowed in state and national parks, forests, and Wildlife Management Areas. However, restrictions apply to buildings that house federal or state offices. Always check specific park guidelines for additional rules.
Arizona law is silent on carrying or possessing firearms on hotel properties, leaving the decision to individual hotel policies. It’s advisable to contact the hotel you plan to stay at to inquire about their concealed carry policy.
For those on long road trips or simply passing through, Arizona permits the carrying of concealed firearms at roadside rest areas, adding an extra layer of personal security while traveling.
The state’s laws on carrying in establishments that serve alcohol are somewhat contradictory. Some statutes suggest no permit is needed for concealed carry, while others say it’s permitted with or without a permit, provided you do not consume alcohol and the establishment hasn’t posted a firearms prohibition.
By familiarizing yourself with these carry laws, you can navigate Arizona’s landscape with the assurance that you are acting both responsibly and legally when carrying your firearm. Remember, laws can change, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest legislation.
The state has fairly extensive laws covering various use-of-force scenarios:
Use of Physical Force: Justified when you or a third party are under immediate threat of unlawful physical force.
Use of Deadly Force: Justified to protect yourself or a third party against immediate unlawful deadly physical force.
Defense of Premises: Force can be used to prevent or terminate criminal trespass.
Defense of Property: Physical force is justified to prevent theft or criminal damage to tangible movable property.
Crime Prevention: Both physical and deadly force are justified to prevent violent felonies such as murder and sexual assault.
Arizona is a Castle Doctrine state, which means you have the right to defend your “castle,” or your home. Additionally, state laws effectively allow you to stand your ground, meaning there’s no duty to retreat before defending yourself if you’re in a legal place and not committing an unlawful act.
In Arizona, you’re not subject to civil liability if you’re engaged in justified self-defense.
One of the most commonly asked questions regarding concealed carry in Arizona is about reciprocity. Reciprocity essentially refers to the mutual agreement between states to recognize each other’s concealed carry permits. Arizona’s stance on reciprocity is quite accommodating, but there are several factors you should understand to make the most of this provision.
First and foremost, it’s worth noting that Arizona is a permitless carry state. This means that any person who is at least 21 years old and can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without the need for a license or permit. Because Arizona doesn’t require its residents to have a permit, this extends to non-residents as well. Simply put, if you are 21 or older and can legally own a firearm, you can carry concealed in Arizona without needing to worry about obtaining a local permit.
Arizona’s Department of Public Safety recognizes valid permits from all other states, so long as the permit holder is legally present in Arizona and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal or state law. This makes Arizona one of the most reciprocity-friendly states in the U.S.
While it’s true that you don’t need a permit to carry concealed in Arizona, the state still issues Concealed Weapons Permits (CWP) for the purpose of out-of-state travel. These are available to both residents and non-residents who are at least 21 years old or 19 for active military and veterans. Acquiring a CWP involves taking a state-approved firearms training course, although certain exemptions may apply for law enforcement and military personnel.
If you’re an Arizona CWP holder planning to carry in other states, it’s critical to know which states recognize Arizona’s permit. Currently, the Arizona permit is recognized in 37 states. Some states have specific restrictions and additional requirements that you’ll need to adhere to. Always check the latest reciprocity agreements before traveling.
Remember, just because a state recognizes Arizona’s permit doesn’t mean Arizona’s laws apply while you’re in that state. You must abide by the laws of the state you are in, and these can vary significantly. Some states may have restrictions on where you can carry, the type of firearms permitted, or the manner in which you carry.
Understanding Arizona’s reciprocity rules ensures that you are not just compliant with the law but also exercising your rights to the fullest. The liberal nature of Arizona’s gun laws, including its extensive reciprocity, make it a haven for those who prioritize the Second Amendment and personal security. However, as always, with great power comes great responsibility, so make sure you are fully informed and up-to-date with the laws, both within Arizona and in any state you may travel to.
Navigating the complex landscape of concealed carry laws can be challenging, but Arizona stands out for its more lenient approach, notably its permitless carry system and broad reciprocity agreements with other states. As always, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations, as gun laws can vary significantly from state to state and even from one municipality to another within Arizona. Knowledge is not only power but also a key component of responsible gun ownership.
5 Responses
Outstanding common sense Firearms laws. Keep up the Great work.
Thank you for putting this together. It makes it easier when I explain it to visitors from out of town!
To be accurate on the stand you ground in Az.
It not really a full stand your ground.
So ARS 13-405 & 13-411 are a must read
How would I be able to attain a AZ permit if I live in CA? Have one for CA, instructor mentioned I could get one for AZ. Thanks for your time.
We recommend using AZ CCW Online. They offer a Non-Resident AZCCW Permit that will work for you as a California Resident. Please note that California does not honor any other states’ concealed carry permits. The Non-Resident AZ CCW will allow you to carry in a number of other states though.