Visitors do not need to worry about their right to bear arms when they travel to the Grand Canyon State. Arizona gun laws are among the most accommodating for gun owners in the nation.
All law-abiding citizens, who can legally own or possess a gun, are allowed to carry a concealed handgun without a permit or license of any kind. This applies to both residents of the state and those just visiting.
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It is also legal according to Arizona gun laws to carry a gun openly.
Visitors to the state who are American citizens can use their conceal carry permits from other states while in Arizona.
According to the
National Rifle Association, these states recognize an Arizona concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
The
Arizona Department of Public safety says it is not necessary to be a resident of Arizona to apply for an Arizona conceal carry permit.
The
Sonoran News reported recently passed Arizona gun laws also make it easier for visiting military personnel stationed in the state to apply for hunting licenses.
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For those who have conceal carry permits from other states, a move to Arizona does not allow a simple transfer of the permit. However, the Arizona Department of Public safety says Arizona gun laws allow permit holders to use their permits from another state until it expires. While a permit is not required in Arizona to carry a handgun, the old permit might be able to be used as proof of competency for a visitor or a resident wanting to apply for an Arizona conceal carry permit.
While, visitors under 18 are not allowed to carry a gun, there are exceptions for discharged military personnel older than 19. The legal age for concealed carry in Arizona is 21.
When traveling to Arizona also beware of the chance you may enter one of many Indian reservations in the state. Those reservation lands are governed by tribal laws, which differ widely from Arizona gun laws.
It is also important to note that a gun carrier is required by law to remove their gun or leave the premises of an event or business when requested. And while it is legal to carry a gun into a bar, don’t drink alcohol while carrying your gun. It is illegal.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.
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