Idaho Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws [And How to Get Your CCW License Online]
Idaho Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws [And How to Get Your CCW License Online]
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Summary of Idaho Gun Laws
Idaho is a shall-issue state for concealed carry, with concealed weapon licenses issued at the local level by county sheriffs. No license is needed to purchase a firearm from a private individual, no background check is required, there is no waiting period, and there is no firearms registration in the state. Background checks are required if purchasing a handgun from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). However, an Idaho Concealed Weapons License (CWL) exempts the holder from the federal requirement of a background check prior to the purchase of a firearm.
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Open Carry
Open carry is legal without a license in Idaho for anyone at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm. Some areas are off-limits, including elementary schools and courthouses.
Permitless Concealed Carry
Permitless concealed carry became legal as of March 2020. This allows any U.S. citizen over the age of 18 who can legally possess a firearm, or any current member of the armed forces of the United States, to lawfully carry a concealed firearm for self-defense without a license.
Concealed Weapons Licenses (CWL)
Idaho offers two types of CWLs:
- Standard CWL : Covers concealed weapons including any dirk, dirk knife, bowie knife, dagger, pistol, revolver, or any other deadly or dangerous weapon.
- Enhanced CWL : Available for purposes of reciprocity for those who wish to travel out of state. Some states will only accept the enhanced version of Idaho’s license.
Both types require the applicant to be at least 18 years old. Idaho issues CWLs to residents and non-residents. Concealed carry licenses require a firearms training course that has been state-approved or experience with a firearm through participation in an organized shooting competition or military service.
Self-Defense Laws
Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground
Idaho is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. A law-abiding citizen may stand his or her ground and protect himself or herself or a third party anywhere he or she has a legal right to be.
Defense of Self and Others
No person in this state shall be placed in legal jeopardy for protecting oneself or family by reasonable means necessary, or when coming to the aid of another whom he reasonably believes to be in imminent danger of or the victim of aggravated assault, robbery, rape, murder, or other heinous crime. The defense of self or another does not require a person to wait until he or she ascertains whether the danger is apparent or real. A person confronted with such danger has a clear right to act upon appearances such as would influence the action of a reasonable person.
Defense of Place
A person using force or deadly force in defense of a habitation, place of business or employment, or occupied vehicle is presumed to have acted reasonably and had a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury if the force is used against a person whose entry or attempted entry is unlawful and is made or attempted by use of force, in a violent and tumultuous manner, surreptitiously or by stealth, or for the purpose of committing a felony.
Liability
A person is released from liability when protecting oneself or family by reasonable means necessary or when coming to the aid of another whom he or she reasonably believes to be in imminent danger of or the victim of aggravated assault, robbery, rape, murder, or other heinous crime.
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Definitions
- Habitation : Any building, inhabitable structure, or conveyance of any kind, whether temporary or permanent, mobile or immobile — including a tent — designed to be occupied by people lodging therein at night. It includes a dwelling where a person resides either temporarily or permanently or is visiting as an invited guest, and includes the curtilage of any such dwelling.
- Place of Business or Employment : A commercial enterprise or establishment owned by a person as all or part of the person’s livelihood, or under the owner’s control or under control of an employee or agent of the owner with responsibility for protecting persons and property. It includes the interior and exterior premises of the place of business or employment.
- Vehicle : Any motorized vehicle that is self-propelled and designed for use on public highways to transport people or property.
Idaho Gun Laws at a Glance
Carry Basics
Permitless Carry
Does Idaho allow permitless carry?
Yes. Any U.S. citizen over the age of 18 who can legally possess a firearm, as well as any current member of the armed forces of the United States, may carry a concealed firearm for self-defense without a permit.
Tasers or Stun Guns
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Idaho?
Yes. Stun guns and tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Idaho?
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Idaho.
Magazine Limits for Handguns
Does Idaho have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. There are no restrictions on magazine capacity in Idaho.
Ammunition Restrictions
Does Idaho have ammunition restrictions?
No. There are no special restrictions on the types of ammunition you may use in your concealed carry handgun in Idaho.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry
What is the minimum age in Idaho to get a concealed carry license?
The minimum age to apply for an Idaho Concealed Weapons License is 18.
Gun Permit Licensure
If Idaho requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?
Idaho is a shall-issue state. This means Idaho officials must issue concealed carry licenses provided the applicant meets all qualifications.
Open Carry Permitted
Is open carry permitted in Idaho?
Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry.
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Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Idaho with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
Yes. Any concealed deadly weapon is covered by an Idaho CWL license. This includes:
- Any dirk, dirk knife, bowie knife, dagger, or firearm.
- Any other weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance that is designed and manufactured to be readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury.
- Any other weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance that is intended by the person to be readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury.
Carry Locations
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?
Question : Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Idaho?
Answer : Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Idaho.
Refer to Idaho Adm. Code 26.01.20.175.14 for more information.
Carry/Possess at a Hotel?
Question : Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Idaho?
Answer : A hotelkeeper has the right to evict a person, whether or not the person is a guest of the hotel, who seeks to bring a firearm into the hotel. The hotelkeeper is not required to provide accommodations, facilities, or privileges of the hotel to any such person. Therefore, individuals should contact the specific hotel to inquire about its concealed carry policy.
Refer to Idaho Code Ann. § 39–1809 for more information.
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?
Question : Does Idaho have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Answer : Employers may post their parking lots to prevent employees from storing guns in their vehicles.
Carry in Vehicle?
Question : Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Idaho?
Answer : Yes, you can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Idaho without a license, based on the signing of HB 516.
Refer to Idaho Code Ann. §§18–3302(3) & (4) for more information.
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?
Question : Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Idaho?
Answer : Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Idaho.
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?
Question : Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Idaho?
Answer : Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol, unless posted, and provided you are not under the influence.
Key State Laws
Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying
Question: Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Idaho?
Answer: No. There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Idaho.
“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced
Question: Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Idaho?
Answer: No. “No Weapons Allowed” signs are not enforced in Idaho.
Non-Resident Permitting
Question: Does Idaho issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?
Answer: Yes.
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry
Question: Does Idaho allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
Answer: No. Idaho’s concealed carry registry is not publicly accessible.
Driver’s License Linked to Carry License
Question: Is my Idaho driver’s license linked to my Idaho carry license?
Answer: Yes. Your Idaho driver’s license is linked to your Idaho concealed weapons license. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.
Preemption
Question: Does Idaho have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Answer: Yes. The state has preemption over firearms, except a county may adopt ordinances to regulate, restrict, or prohibit the discharge of firearms within its boundaries, under most circumstances.
Reference: [Idaho Code Ann. § 18–3302J]
Brandishing
Question: Does Idaho state law define brandishing?
Answer: No definition of brandishing was found in Idaho law. However, any person who shall intentionally, without malice, point or aim any firearm at or toward any other person shall be charged with a crime.
Reference: [Idaho Code Ann. § 18–3304]
Every person who, not in necessary self-defense, in the presence of two or more persons, draws or exhibits any deadly weapon in a rude, angry, and threatening manner, or who, in any manner, unlawfully uses the same, in any fight or quarrel, has committed a crime.
Reference: [Idaho Code Ann. § 18–3303]
Red Flag Law
Question: Does Idaho have a red flag law?
Answer: No. Idaho does not have a red flag law.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs
Question: Does Idaho have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
Answer: Not while intoxicated or under the influence of an intoxicating drink or drug. Licenses may be denied to an unlawful user of marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, or narcotic drug, or any controlled substance as defined in 21 U.S.C. 802.
References: [Idaho Code Ann. §§18–3302B] and [Idaho Code Ann. § 18–3302(10)(e)]
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Handgun Purchase & Possession
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales
Q: Are background checks required for private gun sales in Idaho?
A: No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun.
Idaho License Exempts from Background Check
Q: Does my current Idaho concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
A: Yes.
Waiting Period
Q: Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Idaho?
A: No. There is no waiting period to purchase a handgun in Idaho.
Handgun Registration
Q: Do handguns need to be registered in Idaho?
A: No. Idaho does not require handguns to be registered.
Possess a Handgun on My Private Property Without a License
Q: Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?
A: Yes. Permitless carry is allowed for anyone at least 18 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm in Idaho.
Purchase Permits
Q: Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Idaho?
A: No. No permit is required to purchase a handgun in Idaho.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport
Q: What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Idaho?
A: 18 years old. It is unlawful for any person under the age of 18 to possess any weapon unless they have the written permission of their parent or guardian to possess the weapon, or are accompanied by their parent or guardian while they have the weapon in their possession.
Idaho Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Other States’ Reciprocity With Idaho
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Idaho
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Delaware (Enhanced permits only)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (Enhanced permits only)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Minnesota (Enhanced permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (enhanced permit only)
New Mexico (at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (enhanced permits only and at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (Enhanced permits only and at least 21 years old)
Washington (Enhanced permits only)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (Enhanced permits only and at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Permitless Carry States
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho Concealed Carry License Information
Requirements:
Q: What are the requirements to obtain an Idaho concealed carry license (CWL)?
A: An applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Not have renounced U.S. citizenship.
- Demonstrate firearm familiarity through a course.
- Have resided in Idaho for at least 6 months.
- Meet various legal and mental health criteria.
- Not be a fugitive or unlawful drug user.
- Not have dishonorable military discharge.
- Not have certain misdemeanor convictions.
- Not be under certain court orders.
- Meet federal law requirements. Consult with an attorney if needed.
Fees:
Q: What are the fees associated with an Idaho CWL?
A: $20 for initial license. Additional fees may apply for processing and fingerprinting.
$15 for renewals. Additional fees may apply for processing and background checks.
Valid For:
Q: How long is an Idaho CWL valid?
A: 5 years.
Processing Time:
Q: How long does it take to process an Idaho CWL application?
A: 90 days.
Enhanced Application:
Q: What are the additional requirements for an enhanced Idaho CWL?
A: An 8-hour in-person course covering Idaho firearm laws, handgun safety, self-defense, and live-fire training. Additional Requirements for an enhanced CWL
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:
Q: Does Idaho issue CWLs to non-residents?
A: Yes, Idaho issues CWLs to both residents and non-residents. Non-residents with licenses from their home state may apply for enhanced CWLs.
Name/Address Changes:
Q: How do I update my name or address on my CWL?
A: Contact the sheriff’s office in your county.
Lost/Stolen Licenses:
Q: What should I do if my CWL is lost or stolen?
A: Contact the sheriff’s office in your county.
Residency Changes:
Q: What happens to my Idaho CWL if I move to another state?
A: Your Idaho CWL remains valid until it expires if you move out of state. Contact your sheriff’s office for details.
FAQ: Idaho Concealed Carry Questions
Idaho Knife Laws
Q: What are the knife laws in Idaho?
A: In Idaho, individuals 18 years or older can open carry any knife. Concealed carry of a Bowie, dirk, dagger, or any dangerous weapon with a blade longer than 6 inches requires a weapons license. The law does not specify which knives are considered deadly weapons. Places off-limits for CWL holders generally apply to knives.
[Idaho Code § 18–3302(2)]
Wear a COVID Mask & Carry
Q: Can I legally carry a concealed firearm in Idaho while wearing a COVID-19 protective mask?
A: There is no specific Idaho statute addressing the wearing of masks in relation to concealed carry.
Carry While Gun Hunting?
Q: Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Idaho?
A: Yes, for residents.
[Idaho Statute § 36–401(g)]
Carry While Bow Hunting?
Q: Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Idaho?
A: Yes, it is legal to carry a handgun while archery hunting. However, using a firearm to take an animal or finish off a wounded animal during an archery-only season is illegal.
[ID Fish & Game FAQ]
Hunter Harassment Law?
Q: Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Idaho?
A: Yes, it is illegal to intentionally interfere with the lawful taking or control of wildlife by another person.
[Idaho Statute § 36–1510]
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!CCW Gun Laws By State
Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
By Tyson on July 13, 2024.
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Exported from Medium on July 24, 2024.
