Do You Need a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
Arizona is one of the states in the United States that has lenient laws regarding the carrying of concealed weapons. The state’s laws regarding concealed carry are governed by Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) and Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.).
Do I Need a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
In a Nutshell: In Arizona, a concealed weapons permit is required to carry a concealed firearm in most situations. You must obtain a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). The permit is valid for five years and requires the applicant to meet certain requirements.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
To apply for a CCW permit in Arizona, you must:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
• Have been a resident of Arizona for at least 90 days
• Not be adjudicated mentally incompetent
• Not have been convicted of a felony or domestic violence
• Not have any outstanding warrants or have not been arrested for a disqualifying offense
How Do I Apply for a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
To apply for a CCW permit in Arizona, you will need to:
• Complete the application form, which is available on the Arizona DPS website or at a local law enforcement agency
• Pay the application fee, which is currently $60 for Arizona residents and $70 for non-residents
• Pass a background check, which will include a check of your criminal history, mental health records, and immigration status
• Provide proof of Arizona residency and valid government-issued photo identification
• Complete a firearms training course, which is mandatory for first-time applicants
• Have your application reviewed and approved by the local law enforcement agency
How Long Does it Take to Get a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
The processing time for a CCW permit in Arizona typically takes 3-6 weeks after your application is submitted. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notice to appear at a law enforcement agency to have your fingerprints taken and your permit issued.
What Are the Fees Associated with a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
The fees associated with a CCW permit in Arizona are as follows:
• Application fee: $60 for Arizona residents and $70 for non-residents
• Fingerprint fee: $13.50 for Arizona residents and $25.50 for non-residents
• Renewal fee: $50 for Arizona residents and $60 for non-residents
What are the Consequences of Failing to Obtain a Concealed Weapons Permit in Arizona?
If you fail to obtain a CCW permit in Arizona, you may be subject to fines and even criminal charges. You can be arrested and charged with a felony if you are caught carrying a concealed firearm without a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Concealed Weapons Permits in Arizona
Q: Can I carry a concealed firearm without a permit in Arizona?
A: No, Arizona law requires a CCW permit to carry a concealed firearm in most situations.
Q: Do I need to be a resident of Arizona to apply for a CCW permit?
A: Yes, you must have been a resident of Arizona for at least 90 days to apply for a CCW permit.
Q: Can I renew my CCW permit online?
A: No, you must appear in person at a law enforcement agency to renew your CCW permit.
Q: Do I need to re-take a firearms training course to renew my CCW permit?
A: No, you are only required to complete the firearms training course once. However, you may want to take a refresher course to maintain your shooting skills.
Conclusion
In Arizona, a concealed weapons permit is required to carry a concealed firearm in most situations. The permit is valid for five years and requires the applicant to meet certain requirements, including completing a firearms training course and passing a background check. While the permit fees are reasonable, the consequences of failing to obtain a permit can be severe. It is essential to understand the laws and regulations regarding concealed carry in Arizona to avoid legal issues.
