Resources | Rhode Island Concealed Carry

Additional Resources for Rhode Island Concealed Carry

Rhode Island Attorney General - Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI)

The Rhode Island Attorney General's office issues concealed carry permits and processes applications, including expedited permits for retired law enforcement officers.

• Website: riag.ri.gov/about-our-office/divisions-and-units/bureau-criminal-identification-bci/pistol-permits
• Firearms Safety Guidance: riag.ri.gov/firearm_safety_guidance
• The AG's office published Advisory 2022-02 providing detailed guidance on firearms legislation changes effective June 21, 2022, including the raised purchase age and ammunition requirements.

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM)

Handgun Safety Certification ("Blue Card")

A pistol/revolver safety certificate (commonly called a "blue card") is required to purchase firearms and, as of January 1, 2023, any ammunition in Rhode Island. Blue cards are issued to lawful residents aged 21 or older who pass the state's handgun safety exam with a score of 80 or higher.

• Blue Card Information: dem.ri.gov/natural-resources-bureau/fish-wildlife/handgun-safety-certification-blue-card

Note: The blue card is not the same as a concealed carry permit. However, concealed carry permit holders are exempt from the blue card requirement for ammunition purchases.

Hunter Education Certification

A hunter education course card issued by DEM is an alternative to the blue card for ammunition purchases.

• Hunter Education FAQ: dem.ri.gov/natural-resources-bureau/fish-wildlife/outreach-education/hunter-education/frequently-asked

Key Rhode Island Firearms Statutes

The following statutes in R.I. General Laws Title 11, Chapter 47 are essential references for concealed carry permit holders:

• Full text available at: webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE11/11-47/

Secure Storage Requirements

Rhode Island law requires gun owners to securely store firearms whenever they are not in the owner's possession or control, and in any premises where a child or prohibited person is likely to gain access. Failure to comply may result in fines and/or criminal prosecution. Licensed firearms dealers are required to display informational signage and distribute printed materials about secure storage laws (§ 11-47-60.4, effective June 13, 2024).

Ammunition Purchase Requirements (Effective January 1, 2023)

To purchase ammunition in Rhode Island, a person must:

1. Be 21 years of age or older, AND
2. Possess a valid blue card (pistol/revolver safety certificate) OR hunter education card

Exempt from ammunition purchase requirements:

• Full-time state police or municipal police officers
• State marshals and correctional officers
• Active-duty U.S. military, organized reserves, or National Guard
• Persons holding a concealed carry permit issued by a local police department or the Attorney General

Note: Retired law enforcement officers are not exempt unless they hold a concealed carry permit from the Attorney General.

Violation of ammunition sale provisions is a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine.

Local Police Departments

In Rhode Island, concealed carry permits may be issued by local police chiefs in addition to the Attorney General. Contact your municipal police department for local application procedures. For example:

• Middletown Police Department: middletownri.gov/917/Concealed-Carry-Permits

Crisis & Mental Health Resources

As required to be displayed at all licensed firearms dealer locations (§ 11-47-60.4):

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Recent Legislative Changes