Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Kansas is a shall-issue state with permitless carry laws. Here’s what you need to know about gun ownership and carry laws in Kansas:
Kansas allows both permitless open carry and concealed carry. Here are the key details:
- Open Carry: Anyone legally entitled to possess a firearm, aged 18 or older, can openly carry without a license.
- Concealed Carry: Permitless concealed carry is allowed for individuals aged 21 and older who are not prohibited from carrying firearms.
- Carry Handgun Licenses (CCHLs): Available to residents and military stationed in Kansas. Minimum age for a provisional CCHL is 18; standard CCHL requires applicants to be 21. Completion of an 8-hour handgun safety and training course approved by the attorney general is mandatory.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Kansas does not require licenses for handgun purchases or firearms registration. Background checks are mandatory for handgun purchases from Federal Firearms Dealers, except for Kansas CCHL holders.
Kansas recognizes all valid concealed carry licenses/permits issued by other jurisdictions for non-residents since July 1, 2021.
- Individuals aged 18 and older can possess firearms with barrels shorter than 12 inches.
- Those under 21 may only conceal carry on their own property, during firearms safety courses, at established ranges, or while hunting.
Kansas adheres to Castle Doctrine and “stand your ground” principles:
- Defense of Dwelling, Place of Work, or Occupied Vehicle: Justified use of force to prevent unlawful entry or attack.
- Self-Defense: Justified use of force to defend against imminent unlawful force; deadly force permitted to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm.
- Defense of Property: Justified use of force to prevent unlawful interference with property, using only necessary force.
These laws empower individuals to defend themselves and their property under reasonable circumstances throughout Kansas.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
If Kansas requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?
- Shall issue, with discretion.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Kansas?
- Yes, individual self-defense devices, including those using pepper spray or chemical mace, are legal in Kansas.
Does Kansas have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
- No. There is no restriction on handgun magazine capacity in Kansas.
Does Kansas have ammunition restrictions?
- Yes. The sale and possession of plastic-coated handgun ammunition are prohibited.
Does Kansas allow permitless carry?
- Yes. Permitless concealed carry is legal for anyone at least 21 years old that is not prohibited from carrying a firearm.
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Kansas with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
- No. A Kansas concealed carry handgun license does not permit the carrying of weapons other than handguns.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Kansas?
- Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license, except in schools.
Is open carry permitted in Kansas?
- Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry.
What is the minimum age in Kansas to get a concealed carry license?
- Individuals between 18 and 21 may apply for provisional Concealed Carry Handgun Licenses (CCHL). You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a standard license.
Carry in Vehicle?
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Kansas?
Yes, without a license for anyone at least 21 years old and allowed to possess a firearm. The minimum age for possessing and transporting a handgun unloaded and secured in a vehicle without any type of permit/license to carry firearms is 18.
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Kansas?
Yes. [Kan. Stat. Ann. 75–7c20]
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Kansas?
Yes, unless posted and provided you are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Carry/Possess at a Hotel?
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Kansas?
Kansas statutes don’t specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and the individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?
Does Kansas have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
No employer may prohibit possession of a handgun in a private means of conveyance, even if parked on the employer’s premises. In addition, no public employer shall restrict or otherwise prohibit by personnel policies any employee, who is legally qualified, from carrying any concealed handgun while engaged in the duties of such employee’s employment outside of such employer’s place of business, including while in a means of conveyance. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75–7c10(b)]
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Kansas?
Yes.
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?
Does Kansas allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
Kansas does not allow personal application or license information of concealed weapons license holders to be made public. However, the information is available for law enforcement. Records of individuals who have had their licenses suspended or revoked are open to inspection under the state’s public records act.
Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying?
Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Kansas?
No, there is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Kansas.
Brandishing?
Does Kansas state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Kansas law. However, assault is knowingly placing another person in reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm. Aggravated assault is assault committed with a deadly weapon. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21–5412(a) & (b)(1)]
Non-Resident Permitting?
Does Kansas issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?
Yes, only to active-duty military personnel and their dependents stationed in Kansas.
“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced?
Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Kansas?
No, Kansas law does not recognize “No Weapons Allowed” signs.
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!
Preemption?
Does Kansas have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Yes. The state has preemption over regulating firearms, except local municipalities may:
- Prohibit concealed handguns in state and municipal buildings that have adequate security measures, including electronic equipment and personnel.
- Prohibit public employees from carrying concealed handguns while on the premises of the employer’s business or while engaged in the duties of the person’s employment. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 12–16, 124] [Kan. Stat. Ann. §§ 75–7c10(a) and (b)]
Red Flag Law?
Does Kansas have a red flag law?
No, Kansas does not have a red flag law.
Driver’s License Linked to Carry License?
Is my Kansas driver’s license linked to my Kansas carry license?
Yes, your Kansas driver’s license is linked to your Kansas concealed carry handgun 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.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?
Does Kansas have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
Not while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, to such a degree as to render such person incapable of safely operating a firearm. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21–6332] 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.
Purchase Permits?
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Kansas?
No. Kansas does not require a permit to buy a handgun.
Kansas License Exempts from Background Check?
Does my current Kansas concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
Yes.
Handgun Registration?
Do handguns need to be registered in Kansas?
No. You do not have to register a handgun in Kansas.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Kansas?
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Kansas.
Waiting Period?
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Kansas?
No. There is no waiting period to purchase a handgun in Kansas.
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Kansas?
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.
Possess a Handgun on My Private Property Without a License?
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?
Yes. Permitless carry is allowed in Kansas for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm. In addition, individuals between 18 and 21 years of age may carry a firearm on their own land, abode, or fixed place of business.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Delaware
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Louisiana
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Mexico
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)
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident 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)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Minnesota (Standard permit 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)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (resident permits only)
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)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 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)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (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)
Fees:
- Initial License: $32.50
- Renewals: $25
Residency Changes:
- Moving to Kansas and interested in applying for a resident license? Kansas issues licenses to residents and active duty military personnel and their dependents stationed in the state. You can apply for your license with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office once you are a resident of Kansas with a valid driver’s license or state-issued identification card, or reside in Kansas while serving on active duty in the military.
- Moving from Kansas and have a Kansas resident license? If a person with a Kansas concealed carry handgun license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.
Requirements:
- An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years old (based on the passage of HB 2058, 18 to 20 year olds are able to apply for provisional CCHLs as of July 1, 2021);
- Have completed an 8-hour firearms training course or other approved training;
- Be a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident alien or an eligible non-immigrant alien;
- Be a resident of the State of Kansas with a valid driver’s license or state-issued identification card, or reside in Kansas while serving on active duty in the military;
- Be a resident of the county where applying;
- Have read the Kansas Personal and Family Protection Act and be familiar with its provisions;
- Meet federal law requirements. *Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Kansas.
Valid For:
- 4 years
Processing Time:
- 90 days
Application:
- Kansas Personal and Family Protection Act
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:
- Non-resident licenses are limited to active-duty military personnel and their dependents stationed in Kansas. The process is the same as for residents.
Name/Address Changes:
- Complete the online Change of Name/Address Notification Form.
Lost/Stolen Licenses:
- Licensees must notify the Concealed Carry Licensing Unit (CCLU) of the attorney general’s office in writing within 30 days of losing a concealed carry handgun license or having it stolen. Complete the Lost or Destroyed Permit form and have it notarized. Mail it along with a fee of $15.00 in the form of a cashier’s check, personal check, or money order made payable to the Office of Attorney General at the address on the form. Once notified, the CCLU will send the licensee an approval notice to re-issue the license. The licensee will have to go to an approved Kansas Department of Revenue station to obtain the re-issued CCHL. The Kansas Department of Revenue will charge a fee to generate a new CCHL.
Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Kansas?
- Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes, provided you are not under the influence.
- Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? Yes, for anyone at least 21 years old.
- Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes.
- Carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and WMAs? Yes.
- Carry in places of worship? There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
- Carry in the State Capitol? Yes. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75–7c21]
Where Can’t I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Kansas?
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- Public and private K-12 schools (Exceptions are specified by law).
- Governor’s residence.
- County courthouses (if posted). [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21–6309]
- Any public areas of public colleges, universities or municipal buildings with adequate security measures and posted “No Firearms” signs.
- State or municipal buildings with adequate security measures and posted signage.
- Exempt institutions include certain medical care facilities and adult care homes.
- Secure areas of correctional facilities, jails, or law enforcement agencies.
- State race tracks (if posted). [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75–7c20]
- Private employer premises (if posted). [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 75–7c10]
- While under the influence of alcohol or drugs. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 21–6332]
- Any place where carrying firearms is prohibited by federal law.
Carry While Gun Hunting?
- Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Kansas?
- Yes. [Kan. Stat. Ann. § 32–1002(c)(3)]
Carry While Bow Hunting?
- Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Kansas?
- Yes.
Hunter Harassment Law?
- Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Kansas?
- Yes. No person shall willfully obstruct or impede the participation of any individual in the lawful activity of hunting, fur harvesting or fishing. [Kan. Stat. Ann § 32–1014]
What Are the Knife Laws in Kansas?
- It is legal to open and concealed carry all knives that are legal to own in Kansas. It is illegal to possess with intent to use unlawfully against another, a dagger, dirk, billy, blackjack, slungshot, dangerous knife, straight-edged razor, throwing star, stiletto, or any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument of like character. Ballistic knives and throwing stars are illegal. Students are prohibited from carrying switchblades or gravity knives on school property. [K.S.A. § 21–6301(a), 21–6301(m)(4), 21–6302 & 72–89a01]
Wear a COVID Mask & Carry?
- I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Kansas, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
- There is no known statute in Kansas making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
