Oregon Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Overview

Oregon does not recognize any other state's concealed handgun license or permit.

This is a critical point for anyone traveling to Oregon with an out-of-state concealed carry permit. Regardless of what state issued your permit, it carries no legal authority in Oregon.

Key Statutory Framework

Oregon's concealed handgun licensing is governed by ORS 166.250 through ORS 166.292. The state operates on a Shall Issue system, with licenses issued by county sheriffs.

Oregon's Position on Reciprocity

• Oregon does NOT honor any other state's concealed handgun license/permit: This applies to all 49 other states and U.S. territories.
• There are no reciprocity agreements currently in effect between Oregon and any other state.
• Visitors to Oregon who wish to carry a concealed handgun must obtain an Oregon Concealed Handgun License (CHL).

Oregon CHL Recognition in Other States

• An Oregon CHL carries no force outside of Oregon unless specifically recognized by another state.
• Before traveling to another state, Oregon CHL holders should verify whether that state recognizes Oregon's license.
• According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's reciprocity summary (updated September 2021), Oregon is listed among states that do not allow Pennsylvania residents to carry a concealed firearm with only a Pennsylvania concealed carry license, and Oregon is also listed among states where Pennsylvania residents may not apply for a separate concealed carry license. This illustrates Oregon's restrictive approach to reciprocity.

Non-Resident Permits

While Oregon does not honor other states' permits, it does offer a limited path for certain non-residents:

• Residents of contiguous states (Washington, California, Idaho, and Nevada) may be eligible to apply for an Oregon CHL under ORS 166.291(8).
• The county sheriff may waive the residency requirement for a resident of a contiguous state who has a compelling business interest or other legitimate demonstrated need.
• Non-resident issuance is on a May Issue basis, some sheriffs will issue on a Shall Issue basis while others exercise more discretion.
• Non-residents can apply to any sheriff in the state.
• Washington state residents are the most commonly served non-resident applicants. They must:
  • Hold a current Washington State Concealed Pistol License (CPL)
  • Provide a compelling reason for needing an Oregon CHL
  • Meet all other standard Oregon CHL requirements

Oregon CHL Requirements (for reference)

• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident alien (with additional requirements for non-citizens)
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must be a resident of the issuing county (or qualifying non-resident)
• Must demonstrate competency with a handgun through an approved course
• Must pass a background check including fingerprint processing
• No outstanding warrants, felony convictions, or disqualifying misdemeanor convictions within the last four years
• Not on pretrial release
• Not subject to a restraining order
• Various other disqualifying conditions under ORS 166.291

CHL Fees (Columbia County example)

Per ORS 166.291(5)(a), statutory fees include:

• $15 to the Department of State Police for fingerprint check
• $100 to the sheriff for initial issuance
• $75 to the sheriff for renewal
• $15 to the sheriff for duplication due to loss or change of address

CHL Duration

• Oregon CHLs are valid for 4 years from date of issuance, unless otherwise revoked or denied.

Important Notes for Travelers

1. Carrying without an Oregon CHL is illegal: If you are visiting Oregon and do not have an Oregon CHL, you may not carry a concealed handgun on your person or concealed and readily accessible within a vehicle.
2. Open carry may be legal in some areas of Oregon without a permit, but local jurisdictions may regulate the possession of loaded firearms in public places under ORS 166.173. Persons with a CHL are exempt from local loaded firearm restrictions.
3. Tribal lands: An Oregon CHL is not honored on property owned by the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon. Separate permission from the tribal court is required.
4. Oregon CHL holders traveling to other states should check those states' current reciprocity information before traveling, as Oregon's CHL may or may not be recognized depending on the destination state's laws.