Ohio Concealed Carry & Handgun License (CHL) Guide
Ohio became a constitutional carry state in June 2022 (SB 215), allowing anyone 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm to carry concealed without a permit. The Concealed Handgun License (CHL) remains available and provides benefits including reciprocity with other states, no duty to inform law enforcement, and simplified firearms purchases.
- Constitutional carry since June 2022
- CHL removes duty to inform police
- 8 hours of training required for CHL
- License valid for 5 years
- Free CHL for military and veterans
- Open carry allowed without permit
At a Glance
Quick Answer: Ohio Concealed Carry
Last updated: 2025-01-02
Ohio is a constitutional carry state. You do not need a permit to carry a concealed firearm if you are 21 or older and legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, Ohio offers an optional Concealed Handgun License (CHL) for benefits like reciprocity with other states. The permit costs $67 and is valid for 5 years. Training of 8 hours is required.
Permit Required?
No (Constitutional Carry)
Minimum Age
21 years old
Training Required?
Yes (8 hours)
Permit Cost
$67
Processing Time
45 days
States Honoring Permit
34+ states
Common Questions
- Do I need a permit to carry concealed in Ohio?
- No. Ohio is a constitutional carry state. Anyone 21 or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without a permit.
- How much does a Ohio concealed carry permit cost?
- The Concealed Handgun License (CHL) costs $67, valid for 5 years.
- Is training required for a Ohio CCW permit?
- Yes. Ohio requires 8 hours of firearms safety training.
- Can I open carry in Ohio?
- Yes. Open carry is legal in Ohio for individuals who can legally possess a firearm.
Source: USGunClasses.com - Ohio Concealed Carry Permit Guide. Information verified as of 2025-01-02. Always verify current laws with official state sources before carrying.
Ohio Concealed Carry Quick Facts
Essential information at a glance
Permit Type
Concealed Handgun License (CHL)
Issued By
County Sheriff
Processing Time
45 days
Cost Range
$67
Valid For
5 years
Permit Required?
Constitutional Carry
How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Ohio
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your permit
Timeline:Most applications are processed within 2-4 weeks. Sheriff has maximum 45 days by law.
Complete State-Approved Training
Take an Ohio-approved concealed carry training course from a certified instructor. The course includes both classroom and range time.
- Minimum 8 hours total (6 classroom, 2 range)
- Written and shooting competency test
- Certificate valid for 3 years
- Military may use DD-214 instead
Gather Required Documents
Collect your training certificate, valid Ohio ID, passport-sized photo, and any additional required documentation.
- Training certificate (original)
- Valid Ohio driver's license or state ID
- Color passport photo (wallet size)
- Completed application form
Submit Application to County Sheriff
Visit your county sheriff's office to submit your CHL application. You can now apply to any county sheriff in Ohio.
- Application fee $67 (5-year license)
- Fingerprints taken electronically
- Photo taken or submitted
- Can apply at any county sheriff office
Complete Background Check
The sheriff will submit your fingerprints for state and federal background checks.
- BCI (Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation) check
- FBI check if less than 5 years residency
- NICS check required
- Maximum 45 days processing
Receive Your CHL
Once approved, you will receive your CHL. Some counties mail it, others require pickup.
- Valid for 5 years
- Carry with valid photo ID
- Removes duty to inform requirement
Pro Tips
- Call your sheriff office ahead to confirm hours and requirements
- Bring exact payment - some offices only accept cash or money order
- Veterans should bring DD-214 for free license
- Keep a copy of your training certificate
Ohio Concealed Carry Requirements
Eligibility criteria and prerequisites
Age Requirements
Standard Applicant
21+ years old
Must be at least 21 years old
Residency Requirements
Must be an Ohio resident for at least 45 days and resident of the county (or adjoining county) for at least 30 days.
Documentation needed:
- Valid Ohio driver's license or state ID
- Proof of current address
As of HB 614, applicants can now apply at any county sheriff office in Ohio, not just their county of residence.
Background Check Criteria
Sheriff conducts criminal background check through BCI and FBI databases.
Checks performed include:
- Ohio BCI criminal history
- FBI National Criminal Database
- NICS background check
- Mental health records
- Outstanding warrants
If you have been an Ohio resident for less than 5 years, FBI fingerprint check is also required.
Disqualifying Factors
Convicted of any felony
- - Any felony conviction
- - Pending felony charges
Certain misdemeanor convictions
- - Offense of violence within past 3 years
- - Domestic violence (permanent)
- - Drug offense within past 3 years
- - Assault or menacing within past 3 years
Mental health-related disqualifications
- - Adjudicated mentally incompetent
- - Involuntarily committed to mental institution
- - Found not guilty by reason of insanity
Drug or alcohol issues
- - Chronic alcoholism
- - Drug dependence
- - Conviction for drug abuse offense
Under protection order
- - Subject to civil protection order
- - Subject to temporary protection order
Ohio Training Requirements
Required training to obtain your permit
Total Hours Required
8h
Classroom Hours
6h
Range Hours
2h
Cert Validity
3 years from date of issuance
Approved Training Formats
In-Person Classroom + Range
Traditional format with instructor-led classroom followed by live fire range qualification.
Pros:
- Complete in one day
- Hands-on instruction
- Immediate feedback
Accepted Certifications
| Certification | Organization | State Approved |
|---|---|---|
Ohio CHL Training Certificate Certificate from approved 8-hour course | NRA, Ohio Peace Officer Training, or approved instructors | Yes |
DD-214 (Military) Proof of honorable discharge within past 10 years | U.S. Armed Forces | Yes |
Training Exemptions
Some applicants may qualify for training exemptions:
Active Military
Active duty military personnel
Required docs: Military ID, Current orders
Veterans
Honorably discharged veterans (within 10 years)
Required docs: DD-214 showing honorable discharge
Law Enforcement
Current and retired peace officers
Required docs: Department credentials, Retirement documentation
Find Ohio CCW Classes Near You
Browse verified instructors offering state-approved training in your area. Book online and get certified faster.
Renewal Information
How to renew your Ohio concealed carry permit
Renewal Period
Every 5 years
Renewal Window
90 days before expiration
Renewal Fee
$110.00
Retraining
Not Required
Grace Period
Ohio provides a 30 days after expiration grace period after expiration. During this time, your permit is invalid for carry but can still be renewed without starting the application process over.
Renewal Steps
Submit Renewal Application
Apply at any county sheriff office before your license expires.
Pay Renewal Fee
Pay the $50 renewal fee ($60 if less than 5 years residency).
Complete Background Check
Sheriff conducts new background check.
Receive Renewed License
Pick up or receive your renewed CHL.
Renewal Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
Renewal Fee (5+ years residency) Standard renewal fee | $50.00 |
Renewal Fee (less than 5 years residency) Includes FBI check fee | $60.00 |
Military/Veteran Renewal Free for active duty and veterans | $0.00 |
| Total Renewal Cost | $110.00 |
Late Renewal Penalties
- Renewal within 30 days after expiration: Standard renewal process
- After 30 days: Must apply as new applicant with full training
Renewal Tips
- Set calendar reminder 90 days before expiration
- No retraining required for renewal
- Veterans always renew for free
Fees & Costs
Complete breakdown of all fees for Ohio concealed carry permits
Initial Application
Renewal Fees
Accepted Payment Methods
Important Fee Information
- • Call ahead to confirm office hours and accepted payment methods
- • Bring exact change if paying cash
- • Veterans should bring DD-214 for free license
- • Some counties offer online appointment scheduling
Why These Fees?
Ohio Concealed Carry Laws
Important legal restrictions and regulations you must follow
Ignorance of the Law is Not a Defense
Violating concealed carry laws can result in criminal charges, loss of your permit, and inability to own firearms. Always verify current laws before carrying and consult with a firearms attorney for legal advice.
Pistol-Free Zones
Where you cannot carry in Ohio
Important Notice
Carrying in prohibited locations is a serious offense. Always verify current laws and signage requirements. This information is for educational purposes and may not reflect the most recent changes.
Ohio State Prohibited
Police Stations
Law enforcement offices and stations
Signage required: No
Jails and Prisons
Sheriff offices, detention facilities, correctional institutions
Signage required: No
Courthouses
Courtrooms and courthouse buildings
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - May be allowed in some courthouse areas
Government Buildings
State and local government facilities that prohibit concealed carry
Signage required: Yes
Schools
School safety zones including K-12 schools
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - Locked in vehicle
- - Immediate pickup/dropoff activities
Universities
College and university buildings
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - Locked in vehicle on campus
Churches and Places of Worship
Unless explicitly permitted by the church
Signage required: No
Exceptions:
- - With permission from religious leader
Private Property with No Guns Sign
Private property with proper signage prohibiting firearms
Signage required: Yes
Federal Prohibited
Post Offices
All U.S. Postal Service facilities
Federal Buildings
Federal courthouses, IRS offices, Social Security offices
Military Installations
Military bases and installations
VA Facilities
Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics
Notable Exceptions
Vehicle Storage
May store firearm in locked vehicle on most restricted property
- - Must be in locked vehicle
- - Out of plain view
Penalties for Violations
Carrying in prohibited areas can result in various charges depending on location.
| Violation | Consequence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying in school safety zone | Fifth-degree felony | felony |
| Carrying in courthouse | Fourth-degree felony | felony |
| Ignoring private property no-guns sign | Trespass charge if asked to leave and refuse | misdemeanor |
Weapons Restrictions
Firearm and ammunition regulations in Ohio
Magazine Capacity Limits
Ohio has no state-level magazine capacity restrictions.
Ammunition Restrictions
Armor-Piercing Ammunition
Prohibited for use in handguns under federal law
Hollow Point Ammunition
Legal and commonly used for self-defense
Prohibited Firearm Types
Automatic Weapons
Fully automatic weapons require NFA registration
Exceptions:
- - Properly registered under NFA
Sawed-Off Firearms
Short-barreled rifles and shotguns restricted
Exceptions:
- - NFA registered
Carrying Restrictions
Vehicle Carry
CHL holders may carry loaded and concealed in vehicle. Constitutional carry also allows concealed carry in vehicle for those 21+.
Penalty: None if legal to possess
Additional Notes
- Ohio preempts local gun laws
- Both open and concealed carry are legal
- CHL provides advantages including no duty to inform
Carrying Under the Influence
Alcohol and substance laws while carrying in Ohio
Legal BAC Limit While Carrying
Zero Tolerance
Ohio prohibits carrying a concealed handgun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There is no specific BAC limit, but any impairment is prohibited.
Carrying in Bars/Restaurants
Allowed
- - CHL holders may carry in restaurants and bars
- - Cannot consume alcohol while carrying
Restrictions When Carrying in Bars/Restaurants
- Cannot be under the influence while carrying
- Establishment can post no-guns sign
Penalties for Violations
| Violation | Consequence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Carrying under the influence (first offense) | First-degree misdemeanor | misdemeanor |
Related Laws
Ohio Revised Code 2923.15
Using weapons while intoxicated
Citation: ORC 2923.15
Best Practices
- Do not consume any alcohol while carrying
- If you plan to drink, secure your firearm first
- Intoxication is determined by impairment, not specific BAC
Need Legal Advice?
These laws are complex and subject to change. For specific legal questions about your situation, consult with a qualified firearms attorney in Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Ohio concealed carry permits and laws
carry
No, anyone 21+ who can legally possess a firearm can carry concealed without a permit. However, a CHL provides benefits including no duty to inform police, reciprocity with other states, and simplified firearm purchases.
Constitutional carry holders must promptly inform police they are carrying during any lawful stop. CHL holders have NO duty to inform unless specifically asked.
application
Yes, active duty military and honorably discharged veterans (within 10 years of discharge) can obtain a free CHL. Military documentation replaces the training requirement.
Yes, as of HB 614, you can apply at any county sheriff office in Ohio, not just your county of residence.
Still have questions?
Contact your local issuing authority or consult with a qualified firearms attorney for specific legal advice.
Application Process
How to submit your Ohio concealed carry permit application
Where to Apply
County Sheriff's Office
Apply at any county sheriff's office in Ohio. You are no longer limited to your county of residence.
Search "[county name] sheriff CHL" or visit Ohio Attorney General website
Required Documents Checklist
Training Certificate
Original certificate from approved 8-hour CHL course
How to obtain: Provided by your training instructor
Ohio Driver's License or State ID
Valid, unexpired Ohio-issued identification
How to obtain: Ohio BMV
Passport-Style Photo
Color photo, wallet size, attached to application
How to obtain: Drug stores, photo studios, or at sheriff office
Completed Application
CHL application form
How to obtain: Ohio Attorney General website or sheriff office
Application Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
New License Fee (5-year) Standard fee for Ohio residents of 5+ years | $67.00 |
New License Fee (less than 5 years residency) Additional fee for FBI fingerprint check | $77.00 |
Military/Veteran Free for active duty and honorably discharged veterans | $0.00 |
| Estimated Total | $144.00 |
Processing Timeframes
Standard Processing
45 days maximum
Sheriff must issue or deny within 45 days
Typical Processing
2-4 weeks
Most applications processed faster than maximum
Pro Tips for a Smooth Application
- Call ahead to confirm office hours and accepted payment methods
- Bring exact change if paying cash
- Veterans should bring DD-214 for free license
- Some counties offer online appointment scheduling
Reciprocity
Where your Ohio permit is valid
38
States honor your OH permit
34
States' permits honored in OH
Reciprocity Type
full
States That Honor Your OH Permit
Your OH Permit Is Valid In:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
OH Honors Permits From:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Important Reciprocity Notes
- Ohio is a constitutional carry state since June 2022
- CHL holders have no duty to inform police (constitutional carriers do)
- CHL provides reciprocity benefits when traveling
- Always verify current reciprocity before traveling
- Follow laws of state you are visiting
Reciprocity information last verified: January 2025. Always verify current laws before traveling with your firearm.
Additional Resources
Official links and contacts for Ohio
Government Resources
Contact Information
Ohio Attorney General - CCW Unit
Concealed Carry Weapons Unit
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Links
Find Ohio CCW Training Near You
Browse verified instructors offering state-approved training in your area. Book online, complete your training, and get one step closer to your concealed carry permit.