New Jersey Concealed Carry Laws
Quick Reference
Laws change without notice. This summary reflects our best understanding of current New Jersey law but may not reflect recent legislative changes, court rulings, or local ordinances. Always verify current law with an attorney or official state source before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
Permit & Carry Requirements
New Jersey is a shall-issue state requiring a Permit to Carry a Handgun for concealed carry, issued by county Superior Courts. Applicants must be at least 21, complete a firearms training course, pass a thorough background investigation and psychological evaluation, and demonstrate a justifiable need in some cases. Open carry is prohibited. New Jersey has some of the most complex and restrictive firearms laws in the country.
Reciprocity
New Jersey does not honor concealed carry permits from any other state. Out-of-state permit holders have no carry rights in New Jersey and must comply with all New Jersey firearms laws as visitors. New Jersey is among the most restrictive states for out-of-state visitors carrying firearms.
Prohibited Locations
New Jersey has an extremely extensive list of prohibited locations including schools, government buildings, courthouses, law enforcement facilities, healthcare facilities, bars and restaurants serving alcohol, entertainment venues, casinos, libraries, museums, parks and recreational areas, public transportation, airports, shelters, places of worship, and any posted private property. The list makes lawful carry in New Jersey very difficult in practice.
NFA Items in New Jersey
New Jersey prohibits suppressors and SBRs regardless of federal registration status. New Jersey has a 10-round magazine limit and one of the broadest assault weapon bans in the country. New Jersey also restricts the carry of hollow-point ammunition. These state prohibitions apply in addition to all federal requirements.
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