Concealed Handgun License (CHL)
Ohio Concealed Carry & Handgun License (CHL) Guide
Last Verified: 2026-05-19
Ohio became a constitutional carry state in June 2022 (2022 SB 215), allowing any "qualifying adult" (21+, not federally or state prohibited) to carry concealed without a permit. The Concealed Handgun License (CHL) remains available and is still useful for: reciprocity with other states, federal Gun-Free School Zones Act exemption (18 USC 922(q)(2)(B)(ii)), NICS-alternative status under 18 USC 922(t)(3), and a cleaner roadside-stop interaction. After 2022 SB 215, BOTH CHL holders and qualifying adults have the SAME disclosure-when-asked duty under ORC 2923.12(B)(1) - neither is required to proactively inform; both must respond truthfully if a peace officer asks.
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At a Glance
Processing
45 days
Cost
$67 (5+ year OH residents) / $67 + FBI background-check cost (~$24) for <5 year residents (ORC 2923.125(B)(1))
Valid
5 years
Training
8 hours req.
Reciprocity
39+ states
Open Carry
Allowed
Quick Summary
Ohio is a constitutional carry state. No permit is required for concealed carry, though an optional CHL is available. Cost: $67 (5+ year OH residents) / $67 + FBI background-check cost (~$24) for <5 year residents (ORC 2923.125(B)(1)). Valid for 5 years and honored in 39+ states.
Source: County Sheriff | Verified 2026-05-19
Reviewed by Will Luker, Founder of CCW Hub. USCCA Training Counselor, USCCA Certified Instructor, NRA Certified Instructor, Law Enforcement.
Quick Answer: Ohio Concealed Carry
Last updated: 2026-05-19
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 (5+ year OH residents) / $67 + FBI background-check cost (~$24) for <5 year residents (ORC 2923.125(B)(1)) 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 (5+ year OH residents) / $67 + FBI background-check cost (~$24) for <5 year residents (ORC 2923.125(B)(1))
Processing Time
45 days
States Honoring Permit
39+ 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 (5+ year OH residents) / $67 + FBI background-check cost (~$24) for <5 year residents (ORC 2923.125(B)(1)), valid for 5 years. Note: this is the state permit fee only, required training course costs are separate.
- 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: CCW Hub - Ohio Concealed Carry Permit Guide. Information verified as of 2026-05-19. Always verify current laws with official state sources before carrying.
Content for Ohio is being reviewed and will be available soon.
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