Alabama Handgun Permits
Alabama’s handgun laws have gone through significant changes in recent years, leaving many residents unsure about what is and isn’t legal. While the state no longer requires a permit to carry a concealed handgun in most situations, there are still important rules you need to follow or else risk being arrested for a weapons charge.
If you currently own a firearm or are considering getting one, it’s worth learning where Alabama law stands today. Here’s what you should know about handgun permits in the state and how the law could affect you.
Alabama’s Permitless Carry Law
Alabama enacted House Bill 272 in 2023, which eliminated the requirement to obtain a concealed carry permit for most adults. Before this law took effect, you needed a permit issued by your county sheriff in order to legally carry a concealed handgun. Other changes to the law have been passed more recently as well.
Under the current legal framework, most people who are legally allowed to possess a firearm may carry one concealed without a permit. However, “permitless carry” does not mean that there are no rules at all.
You must still meet certain legal requirements, including:
- Being at least 19 years old (or 18 for some members and veterans of the military)
- Not having a felony conviction on your record within the last five years
- Not being subject to a domestic violence protection order
- Not being otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm under state and federal law
If you fall into any of these restricted categories and are caught carrying a handgun, you could face criminal charges that carry significant penalties.
Why You Might Still Want a Permit in Some Situations
Although Alabama no longer requires a permit for concealed carry, there are still practical reasons to consider getting one. The state continues to issue permits through county sheriff’s offices for those who apply.
The primary reason to consider is reciprocity. Many other states honor Alabama’s concealed carry permits, which means having one allows you to legally carry when traveling out of state. Without a permit, you would need to research and comply with the laws of each individual state you visit, and some of those states may still require a permit.
Places Where You Still Cannot Carry
Regardless of whether you have a permit, Alabama law prohibits carrying a handgun in certain locations.
Some of the places where carrying is restricted include:
- Inside a police station
- Inside a courthouse
- Inside a prison
- At a public demonstration that is being held at a public place
- On federally restricted property, such as post offices and military bases
Local laws and private property rules may also create additional restrictions. Further, if a business or private property owner posts signage prohibiting firearms, you are generally expected to comply.
Potential Criminal Charges for Unlawful Carry
Carrying a handgun in violation of Alabama law can lead to serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or even a felony if aggravating factors are involved.
Contact a Birmingham Criminal Defense Lawyer at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. for Legal Help
Alabama’s handgun laws are more relaxed than they used to be, but there are still important boundaries that must be respected. Carrying under the wrong circumstances can lead to charges that have a lasting impact on your life.
If you’re facing criminal charges related to a firearm, contact a Birmingham criminal defense attorney at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. for a free consultation. They can review the facts of your case and help you understand your legal options going forward.
For more information, contact an experienced Birmingham criminal defense attorney at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. for a free consultation.
We proudly serve clients in Birmingham and all throughout Alabama.
Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C.
2320 Arlington Ave S, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35205
(205) 930-9800