Yes, Ohio is a concealed carry state. This means that eligible Ohioans can carry a concealed handgun without a permit. A Columbus criminal defense lawyer can answer any questions you have about concealed carry and various Ohio gun laws.
Ohio Became a Concealed Carry State in June 2022
On June 13, 2022, Ohio lawmakers approved a permitless carry law (PCL). With this, Ohio residents 21 and older who are legally allowed to possess a firearm can carry a concealed handgun without a permit or training.
Residents can still obtain a concealed handgun license, regardless of whether Ohio is a state that has concealed carry laws. With this license, you may be able to travel with a firearm to another state that requires a handgun permit. The license also gives you the right to carry a concealed handgun in states with reciprocity agreements with Ohio.
Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt has served more than 15,000 clients in gun crime cases and others. If you have been arrested for violating Ohio’s concealed carry laws, we can fight back against your charge and help you achieve the optimal case results. Contact us for more information.
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Ohio Is a Concealed Carry State, with Some Restrictions
The Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 2923.12 indicates that Ohio residents cannot carry a concealed weapon other than a handgun. In addition, an Ohioan must be at least 21 to carry a handgun that is out of plain sight. If a person is barred from possessing firearms on the state or federal level, they are not legally permitted to carry a concealed handgun in Ohio.
As far as Ohio being a concealed carry state, there are some limitations on where you can bring a handgun that is not visible to others. You are not allowed to carry a concealed handgun at an airport, in a courtroom, or at various government buildings.
It is against the law to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while carrying a handgun. For instance, you are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) and have a handgun concealed in your possession. You may want to hire a Columbus DUI lawyer to help you combat gun and DUI charges.
What It Means That Ohio Is a Concealed Carry State and You Can Get a Handgun License
A CHL can be valuable even if Ohio serves as a concealed carry state. The license lets you bring your handgun to other states with reciprocal agreements with Ohio. As of May 2025, Ohio has concealed carry reciprocity agreements with 28 states.
You can submit an Ohio application for a license to carry a concealed handgun. To qualify for this license, you must:
- Be 21 or older
- Have lived in Ohio for a minimum of 45 days
- Have resided in the county in which you are applying for your license for at least 30 days
- Be a legal U.S. resident
- Complete a firearms training course
Submit your license application and copies of your firearms training certificate, signed and dated by your instructor, to your county sheriff’s office. You will have to certify that you have read the Ohio Concealed Carry Laws and License Application manual. Next, you will have your fingerprints taken, pay a fee, and find out within 45 days if you will get your license.
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You Can Be Penalized for Concealing Deadly Weapons in Ohio, Which Operates as a Concealed Carry State
Since Ohio is a state that permits concealed carry, you may not be penalized if you have a handgun in your possession that is not visible to others. This is the case as long as you meet the criteria for concealed carry in Ohio. Yet, you can be penalized if you have a rifle or other dangerous weapon that you conceal.
According to ORC Section 2923.12, you can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor if you violate Ohio’s concealed carry laws. If convicted, you could be subject to up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
In some instances, Ohio residents can face a fourth-degree felony charge if they breach concealed carry laws. A felony is far more serious than a misdemeanor. As such, a fourth-degree felony conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to five years and a maximum fine of $5,000.
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There Are Collateral Consequences for Carrying Weapons in Ohio
The consequences you experience after you are convicted of a concealed carry violation extend beyond those of Ohio’s criminal justice system. Ways that a conviction can impact you for a longer period include:
- Restricted access to employment and housing opportunities
- Damaged relationships with family and friends
- Loss of voting rights and professional licenses
Do not expect a concealed carry violation to disappear by itself. If you decide not to do anything after an arrest for breaching Ohio’s concealed carry laws, a prosecutor will do everything they can to make sure you are punished to the full extent of the law.
What to Do If You Have Been Charged with Violating Ohio’s Concealed Carry Laws
Get legal help immediately following your arrest. Partner with a criminal defense attorney who can share legal FAQs and resources with you. From here, your attorney learns about your charge and looks for ways to contest the prosecution’s argument.
Take care of yourself as your legal proceedings move forward. Your attorney may advise you to seek professional counseling if you feel this could benefit you. The legal process can be overwhelming, so you prioritize your health and well-being during this difficult time. Meanwhile, your attorney will prepare your case and get you ready for your trial.
Review a plea bargain if the prosecution offers one. Your attorney can provide insights into the truth in plea bargaining and how the prosecutor’s deal could benefit you. Of course, you are not legally required to accept a plea agreement. If a plea deal is less than what you feel is fair, decline the offer, and your lawyer will support your decision.
Trust Ohio’s Premier Criminal Defense Law Firm to Help You with Your Concealed Carry Case
Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt brings more than 30 years of combined experience to your criminal case. If you have been charged with violating Ohio’s concealed carry laws, we are here to help you in any way we can. Contact us today to get started.
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