How to Legally Carry a Gun in North Carolina
As a responsible gun owner, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding the carrying of firearms in North Carolina. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to legally carry a gun in the Tar Heel State.
Permits and Licenses
Before carrying a gun in North Carolina, you’ll need to obtain a permit or license. There are two types of permits: Class C Handgun Permit and Enhanced Concealed Carry Handgun Permit.
- Class C Handgun Permit: This permit allows you to carry a handgun in a concealed manner for self-defense. To apply, you’ll need to:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of North Carolina
- Complete a firearms safety course
- Pay a $45 fee
- Enhanced Concealed Carry Handgun Permit: This permit allows you to carry a handgun in a concealed manner for self-defense and also allows you to carry a firearm in places where a Class C permit is not allowed. To apply, you’ll need to:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of North Carolina
- Complete a firearms safety course
- Pay a $100 fee
Who is Eligible to Carry a Gun in North Carolina?
To be eligible to carry a gun in North Carolina, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old (for Class C permit)
- Be a resident of North Carolina
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be a person who has been convicted of a felony or a crime of violence
- Not be a person who has been adjudicated as mentally incompetent
- Not be a person who is under a domestic violence restraining order
Places Where You Can and Can’t Carry a Gun in North Carolina
It’s essential to know where you can and can’t carry a gun in North Carolina. Here are some places where you can’t carry a gun:
- Schools: You cannot carry a gun on school property, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities.
- Government Buildings: You cannot carry a gun in government buildings, including courthouses, city halls, and state offices.
- Prisons and Jails: You cannot carry a gun in prisons and jails.
- Airports: You cannot carry a gun in airport terminals, but you can carry a gun in airport parking lots and garages.
- Public Buildings: You cannot carry a gun in public buildings, including libraries, museums, and city recreation centers.
Carrying a Gun in Your Vehicle
You can carry a gun in your vehicle, but you must:
- Store the gun in a secure location: You must store the gun in a secure location, such as a locked glove compartment or a locked container.
- Not have the gun accessible: You cannot have the gun accessible while driving or riding in the vehicle.
Carrying a Gun in a Concealed Manner
If you’re carrying a gun in a concealed manner, you must:
- Not be aware of the gun: You cannot be aware of the gun’s presence, either through touch or sight.
- Not have the gun easily accessible: You cannot have the gun easily accessible, such as in a holster or pocket.
Penalties for Unlawful Gun Carrying
If you’re caught carrying a gun in North Carolina without a permit or in a prohibited place, you can face serious penalties, including:
- Misdemeanor charges: You can be charged with a misdemeanor, which can result in up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
- Felony charges: You can be charged with a felony, which can result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
- Loss of gun rights: You can lose your right to own or possess a gun.
Conclusion
Carrying a gun in North Carolina requires careful attention to the laws and regulations surrounding gun ownership and carrying. By understanding the permits, licenses, and places where you can and can’t carry a gun, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and exercising your Second Amendment rights responsibly.
Table: North Carolina Gun Laws
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| Permit | Class C Handgun Permit and Enhanced Concealed Carry Handgun Permit |
| Eligibility | Must be at least 21 years old, resident of North Carolina, and not have a felony or mental health conviction |
| Places to Carry | Public areas, private property, and vehicle (with proper storage) |
| Places Not to Carry | Schools, government buildings, prisons, airports, and public buildings |
| Vehicle Carrying | Must store gun in secure location and not have gun accessible |
| Concealed Carrying | Must not be aware of gun’s presence and not have gun easily accessible |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor or felony charges, loss of gun rights |
Additional Resources
- North Carolina General Assembly: Gun Laws
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation: Concealed Carry Handgun Permits
- National Rifle Association (NRA): North Carolina Gun Laws
