Alaska is an open carry state with minimal restrictions on the open carrying of firearms.
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Open Carry Laws
Open Carry Laws in Alaska
Alaska is an open carry state with minimal restrictions on the open carrying of firearms.
General Legal Framework
Alaska's laws do not prohibit anyone 21 years of age or older who may legally possess a firearm from carrying it concealed or open. A firearms permit is not required for either method of carry.
According to the Alaska Department of Public Safety:
"Alaska's laws do not prohibit anyone 21 or older who may legally possess a firearm from carrying it concealed or open. A firearms permit is not required."
Definition of Concealed vs. Open Carry
Alaska Statute 11.61.200(h) provides a clear definition that helps distinguish open carry from concealed carry:
"A firearm is concealed if it is covered or enclosed in any manner so that an observer cannot determine that it is a firearm without removing it from that which covers or encloses it. A firearm on a person is not concealed if it is unloaded and is encased in a closed container designed for transporting firearms."
This means a firearm that is visible and not covered or enclosed is considered openly carried under Alaska law.
Age Requirements
Open carry (general possession): Under Alaska law, a person who is 16 years of age or older may possess a firearm. A person under 16 years of age must have the consent of a parent or guardian to possess a firearm.
Concealed carry without a permit: Must be 21 years of age or older.
Eligibility Requirements for Open Carry
To legally open carry in Alaska, a person must:
Be eligible to own or possess a firearm under both state and federal law
Not be prohibited from possessing firearms under any of the following circumstances:
Currently charged with an offense with a maximum potential jail sentence of more than one year
Convicted of an offense with a maximum potential jail sentence of more than one year (with certain exceptions)
Subject to a domestic violence protective order or other court order prohibiting firearm possession
An unlawful user of marijuana or any controlled substance
Found mentally incompetent or committed to a mental health institution
Illegally or unlawfully in the United States
Dishonorably discharged from the armed forces
Having renounced U.S. citizenship
Restrictions While Carrying (Open or Concealed)
Per Alaska Statutes 11.61.190 through 11.61.220, firearms (whether carried openly or concealed) are restricted in the following locations:
Schools: In or around any public or private K-12 school, school grounds, parking lots, or on a school bus, unless the person has permission from the chief administrative officer of the school or school district. Firearms may be unloaded and locked in the trunk of a car or secured in a locked container.
Liquor establishments: Any place where intoxicating liquor is sold for on-site consumption, except a restaurant where the person does not consume alcoholic beverages.
Child care facilities and assisted living homes: In or around a licensed child care facility or a licensed assisted living home for the elderly or for the mentally or physically disabled, if the facility is other than a private residence (weapons may be unloaded and locked in the trunk of a car or secured in a locked container).
Courthouses: Within a courtroom, office of the Alaska Court System, or within a courthouse occupied by the court system and justice-related agencies.
Domestic violence/sexual assault shelters: Within a domestic violence or sexual assault shelter that receives funding from the state.
Another person's residence: Without the express permission of an adult residing there.
Intoxication Prohibition
A person is prohibited from possessing a firearm on their person (whether openly or concealed) while:
Under the influence of alcohol
Under the influence of any controlled substance (including marijuana)
Under the influence of any drug that impairs mental or physical functioning
Federal Property Restrictions
Alaska's laws do not apply to federal property, offices, installations, or places under federal jurisdiction. This includes:
National parks (specifically Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Sitka National Historical Park, Denali National Park and Preserve, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, and Katmai National Park and Preserve)
Military bases
Federal court buildings
Space rented by federal offices
Airports or airport terminal areas
Federal facilities where federal employees are regularly present
Private Property Rights
The owners or management of private facilities — including hospitals, universities, gymnasiums, or other private property — may restrict or deny firearm carry on their premises. Failure to comply while on their property could result in a violation of trespass statutes.
Motor Vehicle Carry
A person may carry a deadly weapon, other than a loaded firearm, in the trunk of a motor vehicle or encased in a closed container in a motor vehicle.
Local Regulations
Some boroughs, cities, and municipalities in Alaska may have specific laws about carrying firearms. Individuals should check with the local police department in the area where they will travel.
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement
When carrying a concealed firearm and coming into contact with a peace officer, Alaska law requires the person to immediately inform the officer that they are in possession of a firearm. Failure to do so is a criminal offense. The officer may then secure the weapon or require the person to secure it for the duration of the contact.
Key Statutes
AS 11.61.190 – 11.61.220: Criminal conduct with weapons
AS 11.61.200(h): Definition of concealed firearm
AS 18.65.700 – 18.65.790: Concealed handgun permit laws
AS 18.65.705: Qualifications for concealed handgun permit
AS 11.41: Offenses against persons (relevant to firearm rights restoration)
Last verified:2026-03-26
This page covers one part of our Alaska concealed carry guide.
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