Kentucky Gun Permit Laws

7 min readJun 21, 2024

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.

Kentucky Gun Laws & Regulations Update 2023

Over the past ten years, Kentucky’s gun laws have experienced notable changes, reflecting the state’s commitment to preserving Second Amendment rights while addressing the evolving landscape of firearm ownership and public safety. From concealed carry to background checks, these developments aim to strike a balance between responsible gun ownership and community well-being. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in Kentucky’s gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023:

2013 — Concealed Carry Law Enhancement

Kentucky enacts legislation to streamline the process for obtaining a concealed carry permit, emphasizing responsible firearm ownership.

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2014 — Stand Your Ground Law Enactment

Kentucky adopts a “Stand Your Ground” law, allowing individuals to use deadly force in self-defense without a duty to retreat under certain circumstances.

2015 — Background Checks for Private Sales

Legislation is introduced to require background checks for private firearm sales at gun shows, promoting responsible transfers and closing potential loopholes.

2016 — Enhanced Reporting of Mental Health Records

Kentucky improves the reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by prohibited individuals.

2017 — “Red Flag” Law Consideration

Kentucky explores “red flag” laws, allowing law enforcement and family members to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals deemed a risk.

2018 — Enhanced Penalties for Gun Crimes

Legislation is introduced to enforce stricter penalties for individuals convicted of gun-related crimes, aiming to deter illegal firearm use.

2019 — Firearm Preemption Law

Kentucky strengthens state preemption laws to prevent local jurisdictions from enacting firearm regulations that exceed state laws.

2020 — Enhanced Background Checks for Concealed Carry

The state tightens the background check process for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on mental health history and criminal records.

2021 — Firearm Storage Recommendations

Kentucky introduces guidelines promoting responsible firearm storage practices, particularly in households with minors, to prevent unauthorized access.

2022 — Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms

Legislation is introduced to require reporting lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement, aiming to prevent potential diversion to illegal markets.

2022 — Enhanced Background Checks for All Firearm Sales

Kentucky explores potential regulations to require background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions.

2023 — Firearm Training Requirements for Concealed Carry

Proposed legislation aims to enhance firearm training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, emphasizing responsible gun ownership and firearm handling skills.

2023 — School Safety Regulations

Kentucky explores legislation to enhance school safety by permitting certain school staff to carry concealed firearms on school grounds, subject to proper training.

2023 — “Red Flag” Law Implementation

Kentucky enacts “red flag” laws, allowing law enforcement and family members to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals deemed a risk.

Kentucky’s gun laws have undergone significant changes in the past decade, reflecting the state’s dedication to responsible firearm ownership and community safety. From concealed carry regulations to discussions on “red flag” laws and the enhancement of self-defense rights, these changes underscore Kentucky’s proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to shape its laws, it remains vital for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions that balance individual rights with the security of the community.

Kentucky Gun Laws Overview

Registration and Permits

No requirement for individuals to register firearms.
No permit required to purchase any kind of firearm.

Eligibility and Age Requirements

Legal citizens of the United States can purchase firearms.
Age requirement to purchase a weapon is at least 18 years old.

Interstate Purchases

Kentucky residents may purchase firearms from any licensed dealer, manufacturer, or shop in any other state.
Firearm transactions between private parties must follow state and federal laws.

Possession and Carrying of Firearms

No permit necessary for possession of firearms.
Shotguns and rifles can be carried without a license.
To carry a concealed handgun, an individual must have a concealed carry license.
Open carry of handguns is allowed, except in restricted areas.

Definition of Concealed Weapons

A concealed weapon is one that is not easily visible and within immediate access for use.
Firearms in vehicles placed under the driver’s seat are considered concealed, while those in the glove compartment are not.

Eligibility for Concealed Weapons License

Must be at least 21 years old.
Must be a resident of Kentucky for at least six months.
U.S. citizens on active military duty and stationed in Kentucky for at least six months are eligible.
Applicants must not have convictions for crimes punishable by more than one year of incarceration.
Must not have domestic violence misdemeanor convictions.
Must not have two or more convictions for driving under the influence within three years of application.
Must not owe child support equal to or greater than one year’s worth of payments.
Must not have warrants or subpoenas relating to child support or paternity cases.
Must not have recent convictions for assault in the fourth degree or terroristic threatening in the third degree.

Training Requirements

Applicants must complete a firearms safety course conducted by the Department of Justice Training.
The course, lasting no more than eight hours, covers handgun care, cleaning, marksmanship, and target practice.
Applicants must successfully hit a target at least eleven times out of twenty shots fired.
The license is valid for five years, and the applicant is responsible for any required fees.

Restrictions on Carrying Firearms

Concealed firearms are prohibited in public facilities such as schools, police stations, courthouses, daycare centers, and businesses selling alcohol for consumption on the premises.

Penalties for Violations

Unauthorized possession of offensive weapons, suppressors, short-barreled shotguns, or rifles is a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and/or fines up to $10,245.
Possession of a firearm by individuals with felony or domestic violence misdemeanor convictions is a Class D felony.
Possession of a loaded firearm by a minor is a serious misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fines up to $2,560.
Making false statements on firearm permit applications is a Class D felony.
Carrying firearms on or near school grounds is a Class D felony.

Conclusion

Kentucky firearm laws focus on responsible ownership while addressing public safety concerns. The laws, especially regarding individuals with felony convictions, aim to reduce gun-related crimes. Kentucky remains dedicated to evolving its firearm regulations to ensure the safety and security of its residents.

USA State Gun Laws

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Concealed Carry Laws

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