Connecticut Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Overview

Connecticut does not have reciprocity agreements with any other state for concealed carry permits. Connecticut does not recognize concealed carry permits or licenses issued by any other state.

Key Points

No Recognition of Out-of-State Permits

• Connecticut requires anyone carrying a handgun to obtain a Connecticut-issued permit (CGS § 29-35).
• Out-of-state concealed carry permits are not valid in Connecticut.
• Visitors to Connecticut who wish to carry a handgun must obtain a Connecticut pistol permit.

Connecticut's Permit Requirement

• Under CGS § 29-35, anyone wanting to carry handguns in Connecticut must obtain a Connecticut gun permit and carry it upon his or her person when carrying the firearm.
• Carrying a firearm without having obtained a Connecticut permit is a class D felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to $1,000, or both, with a one-year mandatory minimum sentence in the absence of mitigating circumstances (CGS § 29-37(b)).
• Failure to carry the permit on one's person while carrying a firearm is an infraction punishable by a $35 fine (CGS § 29-37(c)).

Other States' Recognition of Connecticut Permits

Connecticut is listed by the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office (as of September 2021) among states that do not recognize Pennsylvania concealed carry licenses and require a separate license issued by that state. Similarly, Connecticut does not appear on any reciprocity agreement lists maintained by other states.

Non-Resident Permit Applications

According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's reciprocity summary, non-residents (such as Pennsylvania residents) may apply for a separate Connecticut concealed carry permit. This indicates Connecticut does issue permits to qualified non-residents.

Keeping a Connecticut Permit After Moving Out of State

According to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) Special Licensing and Firearms Unit FAQ:

• A permit holder may keep their Connecticut Pistol Permit if they move out of state, provided they:
  • Notify the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit of the change of address
  • Continue to renew the permit

States That Do NOT Recognize Connecticut Permits

Connecticut permits are generally not recognized by other states through reciprocity. Connecticut does not enter into reciprocity agreements with other states. Permit holders traveling to other states should verify that state's laws before carrying.

Relevant Statutes

Important Notes

• Connecticut law does not specify whether a handgun must be carried openly or concealed; the permit covers both methods of carry (CGS § 29-35; Peruta v. Commissioner of Public Safety, 128 Conn. App. 777 (2011)).
• Travelers to Connecticut should be aware that the state has strict firearms laws, including bans on large capacity magazines (CGS § 53-202w) and assault weapons, which may affect what firearms and accessories can legally be brought into the state.
• Connecticut state parks and forests have additional restrictions on carrying firearms under DEEP regulations (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)).

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference purposes. Laws are subject to change. Individuals should consult with a qualified attorney or contact the Connecticut DESPP Special Licensing and Firearms Unit for the most current information.